Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the presence of pimples on the skin. Caused by a buildup of oil, skin cells, and bacteria that clog hair follicles, it may involve the development of whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, nodules, papules, and/or cysts. Acne is frequently associated with puberty but can affect people of any age. The condition often develops on the face but may also be present on various other parts of the body including the shoulders, chest, back, buttocks, arms, legs, and neck.
The neck’s high concentration of pores and oil glands make it a prime region for acne-causing bacteria to thrive and pimples to erupt. That being said, neck acne is a common and highly treatable skin condition that can often be permanently resolved with a combination of straightforward lifestyle shifts and at-home remedies. In moderate to severe cases, a variety of professional treatment options exist that can effectively reduce or eliminate neck acne altogether.
At Dermatology Institute and Laser Center, Dr. Ros and our world-class team routinely treat neck acne with excellent results. Below, we’ve provided an overview of the condition, its causes, and treatments. To learn more about neck acne and receive a personalized treatment plan, schedule an appointment at our state-of-the-art clinic today!
Types Of Neck Acne
Neck acne is a condition characterized by the presence of pimples on the neck. Like acne on any other part of the body, it may involve the development of some or all of the following types of lesions:
- Whiteheads – Pimples that stay closed at the surface of the skin.
- Blackheads – Pimples that are open at the surface of the skin.
- Papules – Pimples that become inflamed, are sensitive to touch, and form small red or pink bumps on the skin. Often characteristic of moderate to severe neck acne.
- Pustules – Inflamed pimples filled with white or yellow pus that may be ringed in red.
- Nodules – Large, inflamed bumps that develop deep beneath the skin and are painful to touch.
- Cysts – Large, painful lesions that are filled with pus. Often characteristic of severe neck acne.
What Causes Neck Acne?
Neck acne is caused by an accumulation of sebum (the skin’s natural oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria that lead to clogged pores and the formation of pimples on the neck. It can be aggravated and exacerbated by a range of different factors, including those listed below:
Sweat
The neck is one of the first regions of the body to sweat and become moist in response to warm temperatures, stress, or physical exertion. As such, it is a prime location for acne-causing bacteria to accumulate.
Keeping the neck as clean and dry as possible at all times is an important preventative measure against the development of neck acne. In intense heat or during vigorous exercise, prioritize wiping your neck frequently with a clean, dry towel and shower immediately afterward with warm water and a mild, cleansing skin soap.
Hormone Imbalances
Hormonal acne is triggered by hormone changes in the body and often appears on the lower face, jawline, and neck. Puberty, menstruation, and menopause are all examples of hormonal events that may bring on neck acne symptoms.
Stress
Stress can be a contributor to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as an imbalanced diet or lapses in hygiene, which may lead to the development of neck acne. In addition, psychological stress has been correlated with an increase in acne severity.
Pore-Clogging Products
Many of the products you use in your daily routine may contain potentially pore-clogging elements. This is especially true if they are not properly cleansed from your neck on a regular basis. Be sure to thoroughly remove any makeup or sunscreen you apply to your neck and be aware that, if you have long hair, you may also need to pay special attention to removing hair products that have come into contact with the skin on your neck.
While consistent, thorough cleansing of the neck is key to treating and preventing neck acne, it’s essential to note that, at the other end of the spectrum, certain harsh soaps and body washes can actually strip the natural oils from the skin. In this situation, the body may overcompensate by producing excess sebum which may once again lead to the development of acne on the neck.
Irritation
Acne mechanica, which develops in response to friction, pinching or rubbing, may occur on the neck if you:
- Wear turtlenecks, scarves, or choker necklaces that are consistently in contact with the neck
- Wear a helmet with under-chin straps
- Shave without shaving cream, or with shaving cream that irritates the skin
- Undergo hair removal treatments, such as waxing or threading, under the chin or on your neck
Treating Neck Acne
Treating neck acne is similar to treating acne on the face or any other part of the body. Mild cases may be resolvable with home remedies, while more severe cases may require professional treatment.
Home Remedies
Home remedies for neck acne may include:
- Regularly exfoliating the skin around the neck with a gentle chemical exfoliator in order to eliminate acne-causing bacteria and unclog the pores.
- Consistently keeping the neck cleansed and letting it breathe.
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Avoiding touching or picking at the neck.
- Using dermatologist-recommended, over-the-counter treatments that contain salicylic acid, retinoids, and/or benzoyl peroxide.
Professional Treatments
Professional dermatology treatments for moderate to severe neck acne may include:
- Topical treatments
- Oral medications
- Chemical peels
- Laser therapy (not suitable for all types of neck acne)
Dr. Ros and the team at Dermatology Institute and Laser Center will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that will address your concerns and help you to achieve healthy, clear skin as quickly as possible.
Prevention Tips
Keep these tips in mind as you aim to prevent neck acne from recurring or developing in the first place:
- Keep the neck consistently clean and dry.
- Wash the neck regularly with warm water and gentle, cleansing skin soap.
- Reduce stress whenever possible.
- Avoid potentially pore-clogging products and harsh skin cleansers.
- Opt for clothing and jewelry that won’t irritate the neck.
Request A Consultation
Ready to address neck acne once and for all? So is Dr. Ros at Dermatology Institute and Laser Center. Schedule your initial consultation today to receive acne treatment in New Jersey from one of the state’s leading dermatology teams. We look forward to working with you!
