Dont know if anyone can help.

I am a guy early 40's and get spots/pimples on my chest and upper back. It not acne and I dont get it facially. I probably get only one or two new spots a week but they take ages to calm down and then leave a blemish. Its now got to a stage where I feel embarassed by then and have stopped swimming.

Tried bio oil for the blemishes but if anything this acts as a spot fertiliser!!

I shower twice a day and always after exercise, use a medicated soap and I do have a fairly healthy diet. Would appreciate any suggestions, have even considered a fake tan but not entirely sure that would mask or highlight them.

Exfoliate - to clear the dead skin and pores - maybe 2-3 times a week - not more than this as it may make problem worse - and I would dab neat tea tree oil on each spot - it dries them out quickly - it could be acne - I had a no problems when I was a teenager but had a bad outbreak in my 40's - Panoxyl cream sorted that out - good luck

Exfoliating is really important to keep skin clear, twice a week is recommended (have a look at the exfoliator thread for brand options).

MD Formulations is good for face and body.

Quinoderm wash and cream works absolute wonders, IMO its the best you can buy without a prescription. http://www.quinoderm.co.uk

Also OP, you may find that some things designed to help them disapear will make them worse for a while. Keep at it. Its the sebaceous glands being kicked into life and it should clear up with perserverance. Have you also tried steaming them. Maybe a few sauna trips will help dislodge them??

Thanks everyone for you advice, all taken on board and I think a trip to Boots is in order