Here's What's Really Causing The Acne On Your Chest

Most people experience acne on their faces at some point in their lives. This skin condition is common during hormonal changes brought on by puberty (via Nemours Children's Health). We often think acne is limited to our faces, but it can occur on several parts of the body. Another common spot for pimples to pop up is the chest. Chest acne forms the same way that facial acne does. Namely, blocked pores due to an accumulation of oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. When this happens, pores can become inflamed and create whiteheads, blackheads, or pink bumps (pimples) on your body.

Chest acne also has some unique causes that wouldn't necessarily cause facial acne. Friction from clothing and excessive sweating underneath your clothing can increase the likelihood of your pores being blocked and becoming inflamed (via Mayo Clinic). Some medications, like corticosteroids or testosterone, may increase your risk of developing chest acne, as well as an increase in stress. A diet high in sugar or dairy can also make it worse.

Chest acne can be frustrating and make you feel self-conscious about your body. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat it. Experts recommend visiting a dermatologist at the first sign of pimples on your chest to determine what kind of skin condition you have. "Isolated chest acne is uncommon," Sean Mazloom, MD, told The Healthy. "However, certain conditions such as acne fulminans and acne conglobata, which are subtypes of acne can commonly present with acne eruption on the chest."

If the bumps on your chest are determined to be acne, you can treat them as you would treat facial acne. Avoid using scented or oil-based lotions on your chest, as these can block your pores. Wash your chest with a face or body wash designed to treat acne with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Avoid wearing tight clothing, especially while working out. Shower immediately after exercise if you can to avoid letting sweat and dirt build up in your pores. Finally, consider reducing the added sugars and dairy products in your diet to see if those may be contributing to your chest acne.