Why Are There Pimples on the Back of Your Neck?
When people mention the word “pimples,” it’s typically associated with the zits that appear on the face. However, there are instances when pimples can appear on your back, shoulders, upper arms, and even the neck.
Much like pimples on other parts of the body, pimples appear on the neck when the skin’s pores in that area are clogged with dead skin cells, sebum, or bacteria.
If you’re struggling with pimples on the back of the neck, it’s best to find out how and why they appear, and how you can address them effectively. With these tips, you’ll gain more knowledge on how to address and prevent pimples from showing up in unwanted areas.
Causes of Pimples on the Back of the Neck
Pimples on your neck can appear because of various reasons. As mentioned earlier, dead skin cells, sebum, or bacteria can clog up the pores and trigger pimples. But why is there clogging in the first place? These factors may be to blame:
- Personal hygiene habits: Failing to wash your neck with soap and water, especially after working out or sweating, or aggressive rubbing, scratching, or exfoliating are major no-nos. They can trap dirt and other germs on your neck or irritate the skin in the area, causing pimples.
- Skin irritants: Common culprits include make-up, hair products, sunscreen and other cosmetic products, clothes, accessories, equipment, fabrics, and items containing artificial scents, flavors, or non-natural additives. If you have long hair, it can irritate your neck too and lead to pimples.
- Lifestyle-related factors: Some changes in your body, whether triggered by internal or external causes, play a role in the appearance of pimples at the back of the neck. These include hormonal changes during puberty or menstruation, stress, diet, and certain medicines. In some instances, genetics can play a role in the appearance of pimples too, especially if your family has a history for acne.
Preventive Techniques Against Pimples on Your Neck
Fortunately, you can prevent the onset of pimples on the back of your neck with a few tweaks to your lifestyle - some of which are very easy-to-do and won’t hurt your wallet:
- Practice good hygiene habits: A clean neck doesn’t invite pimple-causing germs. For starters, gently wash your neck with soap and lukewarm water twice a day, especially after exercising or sweating excessively. If you have long hair, tie it and regularly keep it up to prevent your hair from irritating your skin and causing pimples.
- Give your skin extra TLC: If there’s already a pimple, take good care of your neck area so it goes away ASAP. Don’t touch or scratch it, and avoid shaving the affected area until the pimple is gone. Try to place a heated compress or cloth on the affected area a few times a day, in 10- to 15-minute intervals. Lastly, reduce exposure of the pimple/s to sun, wind, and humidity.
- Choose products carefully: If you’re constantly putting make-up, switch to non-comedogenic products that won’t block pores, and avoid products with irritating ingredients like chemical preservatives, parabens, and additives like scents, flavors, glitters, or tint. Don’t forget to use detergent that’s hypoallergenic, and avoid purchasing containing additives.
- Mind what you wear: Always wear clean clothes, especially those made of cotton. If possible, avoid clothes, accessories, or sports equipment that can be irritating on your neck. Adjust straps of backpacks, purses, or bags too so they won’t cause so much pressure on the area.
- Keep items clean: Change your bed sheets on a weekly basis, and your blankets and pillowcases on a monthly basis. You can also consider changing them every two weeks if you live in a warm area. Constantly working out? Regularly clean your sports equipment, especially those that frequently rub against your neck.
Skincare Must-Haves That’ll Fight Pimples
Since you’re dealing with a skin-related problem, you can look into skincare products that’ll help you combat the pimples on your neck. Acne-fighting skin care products like face washes, toners, creams, and gels usually contain the following ingredients:
- Retinoids
- Alpha hydroxy acids
- Niacinamide (has anti-inflammatory properties)
- Salicylic acid (has anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties)
- Sulfur (has antibacterial properties)
- Benzoyl peroxide (has antibacterial and oil-drying properties)
Essential oils, thanks to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, have also been recommended as a potential way to address acne. Some essential oils that may work against pimples include tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, rosehip oil, sandalwood oil, and lavender oil.
Before using any of these, make sure to consult a dermatologist or a specialist first, so you can understand how to properly use them and possibly prevent side effects.
In some instances, depending on someone’s age, sex, and health status, some people may be prescribed medicines like oral antibiotics, oral isotretinoin, or hormone-control medications. These are often prescribed when chronic cystic or nodular acne is present or when the situation is already severe.
Consider Supplements That Help Treat and Prevent Pimples
If you’re looking for a way to prevent pimples from appearing, try the pimple expert Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin). It’s formulated with three beneficial ingredients that can help treat and prevent pimples, namely:
- Vitamin E: It’s known to help fight free radical damage and combat UV radiation, and eventually assist in maintaining good skin cell health. It also helps retain your skin’s moisture and prevent skin dryness.
- Lactoferrin: This iron-binding protein has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Lactoferrin can help boost your body’s defenses, fight bacteria, reduce sebum production and inflammation, and repair damaged skin cells.
- Zinc: This nutrient can help maintain optimal immune system health, and stimulate wound healing and repair of damaged tissues. Even better, zinc has antioxidant and oil-regulating capabilities that can help improve your skin’s appearance.
Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin) is best taken two times a day for two weeks, combined with a proper diet and exercise.
Don’t let pimples on your neck affect your confidence with Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin)! Check out more tips on how to prevent pimples and other skincare tips here. Lactoferrin + d-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate + Zinc (Lactezin) is available in all leading drugstores nationwide and on online platforms like Lazada and Shopee.
SOURCES:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325091
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322318
https://www.healthline.com/health/treat-pimple-on-neck#causes
