“Even though it is most common for acne to happen on your face, acne can happen anywhere on the body,” says cosmetic scientist and founder and CEO of Acaderma Shuting Hu. “Acne is usually caused by clogged pores, inflammation, and excess oil or sebum production. Stress, a poor diet, hormonal changes, or environmental pollutants are all contributing factors to why you might be experiencing a breakout anywhere on the body.”
Hu says body acne is most commonly found on the chest and back, due to a higher number of oil glands located in this area. “The higher amount of oil makes it easier for bacteria to grow, which leads to inflammation that causes acne to arise.”