Body Skincare: Why Plus Backs, Butts & Arms Need It | TCF
When we think of skincare, our minds often jump straight to the face, meticulously cleansing and layering serums to achieve a radiant glow. But what about the rest of our bodies? A truly complete skincare routine doesn’t stop at the neck. The skin on our backs, butts, and arms often faces unique challenges, from breakouts to uneven texture, yet it’s frequently overlooked. A dedicated body skincare ritual is a game-changer, especially for plus size bodies where areas of skin may touch and face increased friction, sweat, and moisture. This targeted approach to body skincare is a powerful act of self-care that ensures every inch of you feels soft, smooth, and celebrated.
Neglecting these areas can lead to common concerns like “bacne” (back acne), “buttne,” and bumpy skin on the arms, also known as keratosis pilaris (KP). These are incredibly normal issues for many people, but they don’t have to be a source of frustration. By creating a specific routine, you can address these concerns head-on, boost your confidence, and feel ready to rock any summer outfit with bare arms and a bold back.
Our Top Body Skincare Tips for a Head-to-Toe Glow
Creating a mindful plus size body care routine is simpler than you think. By incorporating a few key steps and high-quality products, you can significantly improve the health and appearance of your skin.
- Gentle, Targeted Cleansing: Ditch the basic body wash and opt for a formula with active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients are fantastic for clearing pores and treating breakouts on your back and butt, helping to prevent future blemishes. Use a long-handled brush to ensure you can reach every spot on your back for a thorough cleanse.
- Exfoliation is Your Best Friend: Regular exfoliation is crucial for sloughing off dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause bumps. For the arms, butt, and thighs, a chemical exfoliant with AHAs (like glycolic acid) or BHAs (like salicylic acid) is often more effective and less abrasive than a harsh physical scrub. A gentle exfoliating body wash used a few times a week can make a huge difference in texture.
- Moisturize with a Purpose: Not all lotions are created equal. For your plus size body care ritual, choose moisturizers that do more than just hydrate. Look for body lotions containing ingredients like urea, glycolic acid, or lactic acid. These work to gently exfoliate and soften rough, bumpy skin over time, while still providing essential moisture.
- Wear Breathable Fabrics: This is a simple but highly effective tip, especially for the back and butt. Wearing natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen allows your skin to breathe and helps prevent the buildup of sweat and bacteria that can lead to breakouts. After a workout, a quick change out of sweaty clothes is a non-negotiable step to keep your skin clear.
- Protect from the Sun: Sunscreen isn’t just for your face and shoulders. The skin on your back and arms is susceptible to sun damage, which can worsen hyperpigmentation and lead to uneven texture. Use an SPF every day, and consider a spray-on formula to easily cover those hard-to-reach areas. This protection is a critical part of your comprehensive body skincare plan.
- Spot Treat Blemishes: For stubborn blemishes on your back or butt, a targeted spot treatment can be a lifesaver. Products with benzoyl peroxide or a sulfur-based formula can be applied directly to the affected area after showering and moisturizing to help clear up existing breakouts quickly.
- The Post-Workout Shower: We’ve all been guilty of lounging in our workout gear for a little too long, but this is a surefire way to invite breakouts. Sweat and friction can wreak havoc on the skin, so a quick shower with a targeted body wash immediately after a workout is one of the most effective ways to prevent body acne and keep your skin feeling fresh.
Product Recommendations for Your Plus Size Body Care Ritual
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Here are a few well-loved and effective products to help you get started on your dedicated body skincare routine:
Photo Credit:
www.ulta.com
This body wash is a fantastic choice for a gentle daily cleanse that actively works on bumpy skin and body acne. It contains salicylic acid to exfoliate, along with ceramides to restore your skin”s natural barrier.
Photo Credit:
www.ulta.com
This is a cult favorite for a reason. With a powerful blend of glycolic and lactic acids, this scrub is designed to work on the tiny red bumps of keratosis pilaris on your arms and legs, leaving your skin noticeably smoother.
Photo Credit:
www.ulta.com
This lotion is a true multitasker. It’s a powerful moisturizer that contains lactic acid, a gentle AHA that helps to exfoliate and improve the skin’s texture. It’s perfect for rough patches and a great everyday option for smooth, hydrated skin.
Photo Credit:
www.ulta.com
For targeted treatment of breakouts on the back and butt, this leave-on exfoliant is a top choice. The 2% salicylic acid formula penetrates deep into pores to clear blemishes, all in a lightweight lotion that won’t feel heavy or greasy.
Caring for the skin on your back, butt, and arms is not a chore—it’s an essential part of a holistic beauty and wellness routine. By dedicating a little time and attention to these areas, you can enjoy a newfound confidence and embrace every part of your body.
