Neck acne develops due to the same reasons that acne develops on the face or body. However, neck acne can be more painful than both, face or body acne. It has an abrupt onset and can stay life long. Acne at the back of the neck can be severe (cysts and nodules) and are similar to back acne. This usually happens because the skin is thick on the back and hence produces more oil. Men and boys are more vulnerable to neck acne than women and girls.
Neck acne gets aggravated with irritation. Men are therefore advised to avoid wearing collar shirts. Also cotton shirts are recommended to avoid further irritation caused to neck acne.
Treatments for Neck Acne
- For light to moderate neck acne gentle cleansing with 10% glycolic acid keeps neck acne at bay.
- For moderate to severe cases of neck acne combine 2.5% of benzoyl peroxide and 10% of glycolic acid. Accutane also works but has long-term side effects (miscarriage, birth defects, depression, psychosis and suicidal instincts) and is not marketed anymore. However, standard versions of the drug called isotretinoin are still available.