Body acne affects more people than you might think. Unlike facial acne, it is often overlooked as it is hidden under clothing. However, it can be just as uncomfortable as it is unsightly. If this is something you deal with, there’s no need to despair: a small adjustment to your hygiene routine could make all the difference. We’ll explain why the pH of your shower gel is a key factor and what other good habits to adopt for smooth, healthy skin.
Fed up with those spots that show up on your back, shoulders, or chest? You may have tried all the creams and lotions on the market, but nothing seems to work… What if the solution is simpler than it seems? One key element could change your routine: the choice of your shower gel.
Why Is Body Acne So Persistent?
Body acne, also known as acne folliculitis, primarily results from excess sebum and the accumulation of bacteria in pores. However, unlike facial acne, it is often worsened by external factors:
- Tight clothing that prevents the skin from breathing
- Excessive sweating that encourages bacterial growth
- Harsh shower gels that disrupt the skin barrier
- Poor exfoliation that leads to the accumulation of dead cells
- Irritating laundry residues that weaken the skin
Cue to the choice of shower gel. Many commercial products are packed with sulfates and irritating fragrances that disrupt the natural balance of the skin. A distressed skin then produces even more sebum as a defense mechanism, and the vicious cycle continues…
The Right Reflex: Choose a Neutral pH Shower Gel
If you only change one habit, make it this: swap your usual shower gel for a neutral pH formula. Why? Because the natural pH of the skin is around 5.5, slightly acidic. However, many traditional soaps and shower gels have an alkaline pH (above 7), which irritates the skin and promotes the appearance of spots.
By opting for a gentle shower gel free of irritating agents, you help your skin to:
✅ Maintain its natural balance
✅ Avoid rebound effects of sebum
✅ Limit the growth of bacteria responsible for pimples
Favor formulas without sulfates, without alcohol, without artificial fragrances, and enriched with soothing agents like aloe vera, glycerin, or jojoba oil.
Three Shower Gels to Adopt for Clear Skin
If you only change one habit, make it this: swap your usual shower gel for a neutral pH formula. Here are three effective products to soothe and purify your skin without aggression:
1. Sanex Neutral pH Shower Gel
✅ Why Adopt It?
- Specifically formulated to respect the natural pH of the skin
- Enriched with moisturizing agents to prevent dryness
- Soap-free and dermatologically tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
👉 A must-have for clean skin without irritation.
2. Yves Rocher Concentrated Neutral pH Shower Gel
✅ Why Adopt It?
- 97% biodegradable formula, skin- and environment-friendly
- Explicit mention of “Neutral pH” on the packaging
- Free from sulfates and dyes, enriched with natural extracts
- Pleasant yet non-irritating fragrance
👉 Perfect for those who want to combine gentleness and ecological commitment.
3. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Gel
✅ Why Adopt It?
- Ultra-gentle formula with physiological pH
- Contains soothing niacinamide and replenishing shea butter
- Specifically designed for very sensitive and imperfection-prone skin
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested
👉 The perfect choice if you have reactive or irritation-prone skin!
Photo credit: @pinterest
