With summer just around the corner, the last thing you want is acne-dotted shoulders to make you feel self-conscious on the beach. Shoulder pimples are not exactly a babe magnet, either. Fortunately, there are ways to correct the problem and save yourself embarrassment. Here are some tips for men who want to get rid of shoulder acne and gain back confidence:
Be Hygienic
Jump in the shower as soon as possible after a workout or other sweat-inducing activity. This will wash away oils that can build up and clog your pores. Acne is often caused by dirt, oils and bacteria that become trapped in pores and clog them. Clogged pores are a breeding ground for pimples.
Be sure to always wash your shoulders thoroughly by using a body cleanser like Daily Body Wash. You should also exfoliate your shoulders to get rid of dead skin cells that can also clog pores; Advanced Body Scrub can help deep clean your skin and remove those dead cells.
Watch what you wear
Clothes make the man, but some clothes can make pimples! Don’t wear rough textures, such as heavy, ribbed fabrics that can irritate your skin and exacerbate the problem. You can still dress to impress, just choose light, comfortable clothing like a light cotton or silk shirt.
You should avoid washing your clothes with bleach, a harsh chemical that can cause skin irritation and further aggravate acne. Do, however, use fabric softeners, which will make your clothes softer and less abrasive on your skin.
Use acne-fighting creams
Another way to combat shoulder acne is by using a cream that contains benzoyl peroxide, a powerful agent proven very effective in zapping zits. You can use a spot cream to target individual pimples or a lotion that will cover an entire area if you have pimples wandering all over. Make sure you rub in the cream or lotion evenly and thoroughly.
You want to make sure that it is completely absorbed by your skin and doesn’t end up sticking to your clothes. In addition, if you’re going to expose your shoulders to the sun, be sure to use a good sunblock. This will help prevent acne scars, which can be permanent.
Seek professional advice
If you’ve tried everything without success, it might be time to make an appointment with a dermatologist. A dermatologist will be able to examine your skin, find out what might be causing the shoulder breakouts and offer solutions that could include prescription medication. In the meantime, do not give in to the temptation to squeeze your pimples, as this can cause scarring.
