Shoulder Acne: Types, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Last Updated on July 25, 2024

Introduction

Acne is a common skin condition affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, around 40 to 50 million people have acne. Thus, it is one of the most prevalent skin conditions in the United States. Did you know that acne can appear in several body parts, such as the back, chest, neck, and shoulders? This guide will provide detailed insight into acne and shoulder acne.

Shoulder Acne- What is it?

Pores are tiny openings in the skin. Each pore has a single hair inside a hair follicle. These follicles have oil-producing glands known as sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands produce an oil called sebum, which helps carry dead skin cells to the skin’s surface.

However, sometimes sebum and dead skin cells can form a clog within the hair follicle. This plug traps dirt and bacteria beneath the skin. It may lead to an infection. Consequently, this infection causes inflammation, which appears as a pimple.

Two types of acne can appear on the shoulders: acne vulgaris and acne mechanica.

Shoulder Acne-Types

There are many types of acne, but let’s look at the different types that are prevalent.

• Whiteheads

These appear as small, skin-colored bumps. These bumps are usually the result of keratin and oil buildup in a pore.

• Blackheads

Blackheads (open comedones) happen when a pore gets clogged. People think their dark color is due to dirt. However, it is due to the oxidation of keratin and melanin.

• Papules

Papules are small, red bumps that are less than 1 centimeter wide. They don’t have a visible head.

• Pustules

They are red bumps filled with pus or other fluids.

• Nodules

Nodules and cysts are large, red, and often painful. These severe acne lesions are part of a condition called nodulocystic acne.

Also Read: What Is Acne Conglobata and How Is It Treated?

Shoulder Acne Causes

There are many causes of this acne. However, we will highlight the major ones.

Testosterone

Testosterone regulates sebum production. As a result, rising testosterone levels can trigger acne breakouts. For example, many people first experience acne during puberty, when hormone levels in the body rapidly change. People with polycystic ovary syndrome may also develop acne due to high testosterone levels.

Progesterone and Estrogen

Progesterone can be a contributing factor to acne. This hormone is released during the menstrual luteal phase (begins right after ovulation and ends before the start of menstruation). Acne usually breaks out during this period. Additionally, some users of progesterone, only hormonal birth control, also referred to as the minipill, have acne.

On the other hand, the hormone estrogen causes the sebaceous glands to shrink and suppress sebum production.

Clogged Pores

The primary cause of this acne is clogged pores. Excess oil production, dead skin cells, and impurities can accumulate in the pores, leading to blockages.

These blockages create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, resulting in inflammation and acne.

Bacteria

The bacterium Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) plays a significant role in the development of acne. It thrives in clogged pores, contributing to inflammation and the formation of pimples.

When the immune system reacts to this bacterial presence, it can lead to the redness and swelling characteristic of acne.

Sweat and Friction

Sweat and friction are common contributors to shoulder acne. Activities that cause sweating, such as exercise, with tight clothing or gear like backpacks, can irritate the skin and clog pores.

Shoulder Acne-Symptoms

Acne symptoms on shoulders span a range of symptoms that vary from visible to physical symptoms.

Visible Signs

The most apparent symptoms of this acne include redness, inflammation, and the presence of pimples, blackheads, or cysts. These blemishes can vary in size and severity, from minute whiteheads to large, painful cysts.

Physical Discomfort

Shoulder acne can cause significant physical discomfort. Pain and tenderness are prevalent, particularly with inflamed pimples like papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Itching and irritation may also occur, making the condition more bothersome.

Psychological Impact

We should not underestimate the psychological impact of shoulder acne. Acne can lead to self-esteem issues and social anxiety, affecting visible areas like the shoulders. The emotional toll can be significant. It affects one’s quality of life and overall well-being.

Shoulder Acne-Treatment

There are a variety of ways to treat this acne:

Over the Counter Treatments

Many effective over-the-counter treatments can help manage this acne. Benzoyl peroxide is a popular option that targets bacteria and reduces inflammation. Salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin, preventing new breakouts. These treatments are available in various forms, including cleansers, creams, and gels.

Prescription Medications

Physicians can suggest prescription medications for more severe cases of this acne. Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, can help lower inflammatory levels and avoid pore blockages. Oral and topical antibiotics can treat bacterial infections. Oral contraceptives can also help women with hormonal acne control their hormone levels.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Adopting a proper skincare routine and lifestyle changes can significantly impact this acne. Regular cleansing and exfoliation can help keep pores clear and prevent breakouts. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding materials that irritate the skin can reduce friction and sweat buildup. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as showering after sweating, can also help manage acne.

Professional Treatments

Additionally, physicians can prescribe professional treatments to address severe or persistent acne on the shoulder. Chemical peels can exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, while laser therapy can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Dermatologists can prescribe drainage and extraction procedures to help remove large cysts and nodules.

Alternative and Natural Treatments

One way to treat shoulder acne is with several natural and unconventional therapies. Tea tree oil’s antimicrobial qualities can lessen germs and inflammation. Aloe vera soothes and aids in the healing of sore skin. Some people may benefit from dietary changes, such as reducing sugar and dairy consumption.

How to Get Rid of Shoulder Acne?

Start by maintaining a consistent skincare routine, like gentle cleansing and exfoliation, to clear the pores. Over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help reduce bacteria and unclog pores.

Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing and showering promptly after sweating can minimize friction and sweat buildup, which contribute to acne. Consider seeking advice from a dermatologist, who may prescribe topical retinoids, antibiotics, or other medications. Professional treatments such as chemical peels or laser therapy can be effective. Incorporating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress are significant steps in preventing and treating shoulder acne.

One way to find a better solution option is through clinical trials of acne and empowering clinical research to find better and potential therapies for acne.

Also Read: Safety of Clinical Trials: The Balance Between Care and Risk.

Final Words

To conclude, shoulder acne can be frustrating and even painful at times. Therefore, understanding the types, causes, symptoms, and prevention is necessary to manage the condition and treat it accordingly.

Acne can be frustrating at times. Therefore, it is optimal to find a better treatment option and help spread acne solutions. One way to do so is to enroll in clinical research and contribute to a noble cause.