Truncal Acne: Body Acne on the Back, Chest and Shoulders

Truncal acne is the medical term for acne that develops on the trunk of the body, most commonly the back, chest and shoulders. While facial acne often receives the most attention, body acne is just as common and can have an equally significant impact on confidence and quality of life.

Because truncal acne is usually hidden beneath clothing, many people quietly live with it for years without seeking advice. However, like facial acne, body acne can become inflamed, persistent and, in some cases, leave permanent scars if left unmanaged.

What is truncal acne?

Truncal acne refers to acne affecting the torso, including:

• Upper back.
• Lower back.
• Chest.
• Shoulders.

It develops through the same underlying processes responsible for facial acne and can range from mild blackheads and whiteheads to painful inflammatory acne, nodules and cysts.

Many people who experience acne on their face also develop some degree of body acne, although they may not mention it during consultations.

What causes truncal acne?

The trunk contains numerous sebaceous (oil) glands that naturally produce sebum to protect the skin.

Truncal acne develops when these oil glands become involved in the same acne process seen elsewhere on the body:

• Increased oil production.
• Blocked hair follicles.
• Naturally occurring skin bacteria.
• Inflammation.

Heat, sweat and friction from clothing or sports equipment may worsen existing acne by increasing irritation, but they are not the underlying cause.

Why is body acne often more persistent?

Body acne can sometimes be more difficult to manage than facial acne for several reasons.

The skin across the chest, shoulders and back is thicker than facial skin, and the oil glands are generally larger and more active. Breakouts often develop deeper beneath the skin and can therefore take longer to improve.

These areas are also harder to reach consistently, making regular skincare more challenging.

Why is truncal acne often overlooked?

Unlike facial acne, truncal acne is usually covered by clothing, meaning many people simply tolerate it without mentioning it.

Some assume nothing can be done, while others focus solely on treating facial acne.

However, body acne deserves exactly the same attention because it shares the same causes, can affect confidence just as much and carries a genuine risk of permanent scarring if it becomes severe.

Can truncal acne leave scars?

Yes.

Deep inflammatory acne affecting the chest, shoulders or back can damage the deeper layers of the skin, increasing the likelihood of permanent acne scars.

Early assessment is particularly worthwhile if your body acne:

• Is painful.
• Frequently returns.
• Covers a large area.
• Leaves dark marks or scars.
• Does not improve despite consistent skincare.

How can I help improve truncal acne?

Simple lifestyle measures can help reduce irritation and support healthier skin.

These include:

• Showering after exercise or heavy sweating.
• Changing out of damp clothing promptly.
• Wearing breathable fabrics where possible.
• Avoiding tight clothing that causes excessive friction.
• Using gentle skincare rather than harsh scrubs.

Consistency is important, as improvements usually take several weeks to become noticeable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does truncal acne mean?

Truncal acne is the medical term for acne affecting the trunk of the body, including the back, chest and shoulders.

Is body acne less serious than facial acne?

No. Body acne develops through the same processes as facial acne and can be equally distressing. Severe truncal acne can also leave permanent scars.

Why do I have acne on my body as well as my face?

The back, chest and shoulders contain many oil glands, making them naturally susceptible to the same acne process seen on the face.

Can truncal acne scar?

Yes. Deep or persistent body acne carries a genuine risk of permanent scarring, particularly if inflammation continues for prolonged periods.

Can truncal acne improve?

Yes. With appropriate skincare, sensible lifestyle measures and early assessment where necessary, truncal acne can often be successfully managed.

Reviewed by Dr Tara Treacy, GP with a special interest in dermatology (IMC 411337).

Last reviewed: 16/07/2026.

General information only. It does not replace an individual medical assessment.