How to Get Rid of Butt Acne: A Dermatologist-Approved Guide

Before we get into it, let’s start by saying that acne can happen all over your body. There’s chest acne, back acne, shoulder acne and — you guessed it — butt acne. Sure, it might be a little embarrassing and it may be uncomfortable for some to talk about, but the truth is, breakouts on the buttocks are a thing and they happen to a lot of people. So instead of suffering in silence, we decided to learn more about it by tapping Dr. Joshua Zeichner, board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant. Ahead, he explains what butt acne is, how to prevent it and how to get rid of it. 

What Is Butt Acne?

It turns out “butt acne,” also referred to as “buttne,” may not really be acne at all. “Acne on the butt is usually a superficial infection called folliculitis rather than true acne,” Dr. Zeichner says. These small red bumps or white-headed pimples may look like traditional acne, but they’re typically just inflamed hair follicles. 

What Causes Butt Acne?

According to Dr. Zeichner, butt pimples and bumps can happen due to chronic friction caused by tight-fitted clothing, hair-removal techniques like shaving or waxing and even excessive sweating. The bumps can be uncomfortable as they can often feel itchy and sore.

How Can You Get Rid of Butt Acne?

Even if the skin concern technically isn’t acne, you can still clear it using similar methods. To keep breakouts at bay, try using products formulated with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Michael Kaminer suggests topical products enhanced with benzoyl peroxide to help reduce flare-ups. We recommend using the CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough & Bumpy Skin which is formulated with salicylic acid to help exfoliate the skin, unclog pores and minimize body breakouts.

If you don’t see any improvement or have general concerns about folliculitis, it’s important to set up an appointment with your dermatologist to get personalized advice and recommendations. 

How Can You Prevent Butt Acne?

Wear Loose Clothing

Tight or clingy clothes can stick to the skin, causing friction that may lead to irritation. Wear loose, comfortable clothing when you can. If you wear tight-fitting yoga pants to the gym, change them immediately after sweating and take a shower.

Clean Your Body Immediately After Sweating

Sweat that’s been lingering on the skin for an extended period can mix with other impurities on your skin like bacteria and can clog your pores. It’s recommended to hop in the shower within ten minutes of a sweat session. 

Scrub Gently

No matter how bad the temptation is, don’t fall victim to scrubbing harshly on your folliculitis. In theory, this seems like a good idea, but what you’re actually doing is irritating your skin more. Approach your skin-care routine with a gentle touch to avoid any additional flare-ups.

Stop Picking

Try not to pick at your skin as this can lead to other skin conditions like permanent scarring, further irritation and even an infection. To help keep yourself accountable, try using the Starface Hydro-Stars. These effective (and adorable) pimple patches are clinically proven to absorb fluid, shield spots from outside bacteria and prevent skin picking. Simply apply a star on the cleansed and dry area where you feel a bump coming and let it do all the work for you.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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