Which cream should you use for chest acne?

Which treatment fits your breakouts?

For a first attempt at treating mild chest acne, choose one suitable treatment rather than adding several at once. If your skin is already dry or easily irritated, do not reach automatically for the strongest product. Strong acne treatments can be particularly drying for aging skin.26

How to use benzoyl peroxide on your chest

1. 1Check the label. Some benzoyl peroxide products are for the face only; others are suitable for the chest and back. Check whether yours is a wash or a treatment you leave on.
2. 2Test it first. When using benzoyl peroxide for the first time, apply a small amount to one or two small treatment areas for three days. Continue as directed if there is no reaction or discomfort.
3. 3For a cream or gel, gently wash the affected skin and pat it dry. Apply a small amount in a thin layer and rub it in gently. Wash your hands before and afterwards.
4. 4For a wash, wet the skin, use the amount and contact time on the label, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. NHS directions for common gel washes specify one to two minutes; do not automatically copy longer contact times used for back acne.
5. 5Start with once daily use to check how your skin reacts. Some products are used twice daily, but follow your own label or prescription rather than increasing the frequency yourself.

Keep benzoyl peroxide away from your eyes, nose and mouth, and do not apply it to infected or broken skin. It can bleach hair, clothes, towels and bedding. Using extra product does not make it work faster and increases the risk of side effects.12

How does adapalene fit into the routine?

Retinoids treat the whole acne affected area, not just individual spots, because they also help prevent new clogged pores. They are often applied in the evening. Daily adapalene 0.1% gel alongside benzoyl peroxide is an established approach for back acne; for your chest, ask a pharmacist or doctor before combining acne medicines.2345

A crowded bathroom shelf is not a combination treatment plan, even if the bottles look pleased with themselves. Prescription combinations contain selected medicines and doses. If a retinoid irritates your skin, your dermatologist can adjust the amount or frequency, or advise applying moisturizer first. Make those changes with their help.5

What else helps treatment work?

Gentle cleansing and reducing sweat trapped under clothing are useful body acne habits.7

• Shower and change into clean clothes after exercise. If you cannot shower immediately, gently use an oil free cleansing wipe and change out of sweaty clothes.
• Wear loose cotton or sweat wicking workout clothing, and wash it after each use.
• Avoid scrubbing, loofahs, abrasive cleansers and harsh antibacterial soaps. Choose gentle, fragrance free products.
• Look for oil free or noncomedogenic products, meaning products intended not to clog pores.
• Use clean towels and bedding. Wash sheets and towels at least weekly.
• Do not squeeze or pick spots. Picking can damage skin, cause infection and leave scars.
• Protect exposed chest skin outdoors with noncomedogenic, water resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Broad spectrum protection covers UVA and UVB rays.

How long does chest acne treatment take?

Benzoyl peroxide usually starts working within about four weeks, with effects becoming noticeable over four to six weeks. Acne treatment commonly takes at least six to eight weeks before fewer breakouts appear. Body acne can take several months to clear, and retinoids often need several months of use. Contact your doctor if benzoyl peroxide has not helped after four to six weeks, or sooner if acne worsens.12457

What side effects mean you should stop?

Benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness, peeling, warmth and slight stinging. Mild irritation often improves with less frequent use; speak to a pharmacist or doctor if symptoms bother you or persist. Get prompt medical help for burning, blistering, significant redness or swelling. Stop using it and seek emergency help for throat tightness, difficulty breathing, faintness, hives, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.12

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and other medicines

Benzoyl peroxide can usually be used during pregnancy, but check with your doctor. If breastfeeding, check with a pharmacist or doctor first and do not apply it to your breasts. Tell them about other acne treatments and medicines you use. Children under 12 need medical advice before using benzoyl peroxide.12

When does chest acne need a doctor?

See a clinician early for deep, painful lumps, severe inflammation, scarring or frequently returning breakouts. Fever or other signs of infection also need medical assessment. Not every chest breakout is acne: folliculitis, inflammation around hair follicles, can look similar and needs an accurate diagnosis. If new adult breakouts began after starting or stopping medication, discuss that change with your doctor. Persistent or severe acne can need prescription skin treatments or oral medicines rather than another cream.567