Dullness, rough skin, and tanning are common body skin concerns that we often contend with, especially during peak summer or a heatwave. However, not many of us account for pesky body acne. Just like our facial skin, our body skin can also fall prey to these unwelcome bumpy comedones that we commonly know as body acne. It commonly occurs on our upper arms, neck, legs and back. The latter is what influenced the term ‘bacne’. Much like the above skin concerns, body acne is caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells, sweat, and sebum in our pores. We’re all aware of salicylic acid, a widely researched BHA, and its wondrous benefits to curb body acne and bumps. In this article, though, we’re going to shed some light on some lesser-known ingredients that are just as effective in eliminating body acne and more.
Active Ingredients
1. Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is a type of Alpha Hydroxy Acid that’s derived from the fermentation of sugarcane, beet sugar, and corn. It’s a water-soluble component that works on the top layer of the skin to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and remove uneven texture. Lactic acid is also known to be a gentler AHA so it’s a great chemical exfoliant for beginners or for someone who’s looking for a gentle solution. As per trials recorded by NLH, lactic acid also proved to improve skin firmness and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
Nykaa Recommends:
What we love: Along with 2% lactic acid to remove dead skin cells and sweat, it has microbeads to provide physical exfoliation to further unclog pores for smooth, bump-free skin.
What we love: It has 3% lactic acid that quells body acne and ‘bacne’ and 0.1% retinol to accelerate cell turnover and reduce acne scarring. This cream can also be applied to other parts of the body to lift away rough texture and discolouration.
2. Mandelic Acid
If you have sensitive skin that’s prone to inflammation and are apprehensive about chemical exfoliation, mandelic acid is your ultimate go-to. It’s known to be one of the gentlest water-soluble chemical exfoliants. This is because mandelic acid has a bigger molecule size that slowly penetrates the layers of skin, thus providing gentle exfoliation. Mandelic acid is mostly derived from bitter almonds. In this comparative study between salicylic acid and mandelic acid, the latter was found to be equally effective but on inflammatory breakouts, otherwise known as pustules, which are painful pimples with trapped pus and sebum. Therefore, mandelic acid is great for mitigating bumpy, red body acne.
Nykaa Recommends:
What we love: Along with 2% lactic acid to remove dead skin cells and sweat, it has microbeads to provide physical exfoliation to further unclog pores for smooth, bump-free skin.
What we love: This toner with 5% mandelic acid instantly absorbs into the skin. So, if you don’t want to spend much time in your nighttime skincare routine, a few quick dabs of this toner are all you need. If you want extra hydration, you can even mix a few drops with your body lotion.
3. Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is a lesser-known gem that needs more attention. Recommended by dermatologists, azelaic acid is a type of dicarboxylic acid (also known as dioic acid) which is derived from grains like wheat and barley. Aside from reducing bacne and body acne, azelaic acid is also known to reduce rosacea and other types of skin redness. It even addresses inflammation brought on by sun damage and free radicals. Therefore, this underrated chemical exfoliator is a great solution for mild to moderate cases of body acne.
Nykaa Recommends:
What we love: If the aftermath of body acne has left you with scars and pigmentation, this lightweight cream is perfect as it tackles various forms of hyperpigmentation. It has a potent blend of azelaic and phytic acid that reduces melanin production for even-toned skin.
What we love: Though it’s face serum, this Derma Decode serum also works as an effective spot treatment for body acne. It has 1% kojic acid and 10% azelaic acid. It calms inflammation, reduces redness, and helps fade dark spots.
4. Retinol
There’s a reason why retinol is known as the best anti-ageing ingredient in the skincare space. Retinol is a popular type of vitamin A that falls under the umbrella term of retinoids. It provides gentle exfoliation to improve cell turnover, reduce breakouts, fade hyperpigmentation, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Nykaa Recommends:
What we love: This body cream ought to be your go-to if you love one-and-done body care solutions. Not only does it moisturise and hydrate your skin, its blend of encapsulated retinol, hyaluronic acid, and oleosoft 40 reduce body acne, scars, and stretch marks.
What we love: If your body breaks out in a particular area regularly whether it’s your upper back or arms, this retinol serum has a potent antioxidant blend of retinol and black tea to provide intensive spot treatment. It also has squalane to soothe painful, bumpy bacne. For best results, apply it directly to the affected area at nighttime.
Though these solutions are an iron-clad way to reduce bacne and body acne, know that the best way to heal them is through consistency. Lastly, always remember to patch-test before adding our recommendations to your body care regimen.
