Survey on Skin Concerns Before Swimwear Season: Back Acne Ranks #1 at 67.3%; 80% Unsure of Correct Care Methods

### Key Findings of the Survey
To conclude, 'back acne' is the top skin concern people want to resolve before wearing swimwear, with 67.3% of respondents affected. While mild back acne can show improvement in about a month, inflammatory acne scars (pigmentation) may take 3 to 6 months. Basic care for sunburn marks involves whitening agents and moisturizing, while bikini line darkening is effectively treated with hydroquinone or medical lasers. Peeling or laser treatments should be avoided within two weeks prior to swimming in pools or the ocean.

- Top concerned body part: Back (67.3%), followed by Bikini Line (54.0%).
- Over 80% responded that they 'do not know the correct care method,' and 42.7% experienced worsening due to self-care.
- Only 23.0% have visited a dermatologist for these issues, highlighting the high hurdle for professional care.

### Terminology
- **Back Acne (Truncal Acne):** Acne occurring on the back. It is caused by sebum clogging pores and the proliferation of Propionibacterium acnes or Malassezia. Unlike facial acne, differentiation from Malassezia folliculitis is crucial, and antifungal medication may be necessary.
- **Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):** Brownish pigmentation left after inflammation from acne or wounds subsides. It is caused by melanin deposition and is a common cause of sunburn marks and bikini line darkening.
- **Chemical Peeling:** A treatment involving the application of acidic agents to remove old dead skin cells. Used for acne and dullness treatment. Since sensitivity to UV rays increases after the procedure, it should be done at least two weeks before planned trips to the sea or pool.

### Comparison of Treatment Periods and Methods
- **Back Acne (Mild):** Self-care: 1-2 months; Dermatology: 2-4 weeks. Recommended: Antibacterial topical medication, peeling soap.
- **Back Acne Scars (Pigmentation):** Self-care: 3-6 months; Dermatology: 1-3 months. Recommended: Hydroquinone, laser treatment.
- **Bikini Line Darkening:** Self-care: 2-3 months; Dermatology: 1-2 months. Recommended: Whitening topical agents, laser toning.
- **Sunburn Marks:** Self-care: 3-6 months; Dermatology: 1-3 months. Recommended: Vitamin C derivatives, tranexamic acid.
- **Upper Arm Bumps:** Self-care: 2-3 months; Dermatology: 1-2 months. Recommended: Urea cream, peeling.

### Survey Overview
- Target: Men and women in their 20s-40s nationwide who have visited the sea or a pool within the past year.
- Period: April 20 to April 29, 2026.
- Method: Internet survey.
- Participants: 300 people.

### Survey Results Detail
- **Approx. 70% are most concerned about 'Back' skin issues:** The back is difficult to see and reach, leading to more serious concerns.
- **Back acne and scars are the overwhelming majority (over 60%):** This is due to the high density of sebaceous glands and friction/sweat from clothing.
- **Over 80% rely solely on over-the-counter products for self-care:** Dermatology visits remain at only 12.0%, showing a high psychological hurdle for professional care.
- **Over 80% answer 'I don't know the correct care method':** An information overload has created a situation where people cannot judge what is correct.