If you have experienced pimples on your buttocks, you will know the struggle. While pimples on the buttocks are very normal and extremely common, they can get pretty annoying. But the fact that the red or pus-filled lumps on your behind are not technically acne may give you some comfort. They occur due to a type of skin irritation called folliculitis.
But what causes folliculitis?
Folliculitis develops when the skin’s hair follicles are irritated, causing red pimples that resemble acne lesions. Friction is the main culprit behind skin irritation. Activities like wearing tight-fitting underwear or bottoms, skipping the post-workout shower, shaving or waxing, or even soaking in a hot tub can all lead to pimples on the buttocks.
Acne is caused by a buildup of oil trapped within the follicles, leading to overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria and subsequent inflammation. There are high levels of oil glands on the chest, back, and upper arms, and that explains why acne may develop there.
Getting to the Bottom of Your Skin Problem
Sometimes referred to as “buttne,” an outbreak of pimples on the buttocks may be caused by one of the following problems.
Folliculitis – Acnelike bumps on the buttocks are caused by inflammation of hair follicles, which is called folliculitis. Folliculitis can be caused by an infection from bacteria, yeast, fungus, irritation of hair follicles, or blockage of hair follicles. It appears as shallow little bumps and can feel itchy and sore.
Carbuncles – A cluster of boils, a carbuncle feels like a painful knot of pus under the skin, similar to the way an acne cyst feels. Carbuncles can occur when folliculitis gets out of control and starts to become a deeper infection. Having acne does not affect your risk of having either folliculitis or carbuncles. Though acne and folliculitis (or carbuncles) may look similar, they are indeed different skin conditions.
Keratosis Pilaris – Small bumps that appear on the buttocks (almost resembling goose flesh) generally don’t hurt or itch, and are typically harmless. They’re caused when a protein called keratin, which usually protects the skin, blocks the follicle opening. Experts aren’t sure why this occurs, but keratosis pilaris may appear in conjunction with other skin conditions or genetic diseases.
Contact Dermatitis – Bumps on the buttocks may be due to an allergy caused by the chemical preservative methylisothiazolinone, found in moistened flushable wipes. For some people, these wipes can cause allergic contact dermatitis, according to research, although this is more commonly found in a wiping pattern rather than on the buttock cheek itself.
Treatment Options for Getting Rid of Buttne
Your treatment will depend on whether you have folliculitis, carbuncles, keratosis pilaris, or an allergy.
Folliculitis Treatment – Most of the time, folliculitis eruptions go away on their own. If not, a dermatologist can prescribe a combination of products to clear up your skin. Often, butt acne can be treated with a topical antibiotic cream or an antibacterial wash, such as one that contains benzoyl peroxide. Rarely, you might need an oral antibiotic or an antifungal medication. Look for cleansers that contain 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, an ingredient that lowers levels of acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Carbuncle Treatment – Because carbuncles go deeper, treatment is more intensive. You may be given an antibiotic (oral or topical) to fight the infection. Your healthcare provider may also need to lance, or pierce, the boil to drain the accumulated pus in a safe, sterile setting. The area will then be covered with a bandage. Never try to drain a carbuncle yourself.
Keratosis Pilaris Treatment – Because the condition is painless and often considered a variation of normal skin, it can’t be prevented, though moisturizer may help if you’re dealing with dry patches. Ointments using salicylic acid or glycolic acid may also be effective.
Allergy Treatment – Hold off on using moistened wipes for one month. If you abstain for only a week or two, you may not see your skin clear up, experts say.
How to Help Prevent Pimples From Popping Up on Your Buttocks
You can help prevent butt acne by maintaining overall good health and taking simple precautions:
- Wear loose clothing whenever possible. Tight clothes, especially when combined with sweat, can irritate the skin and trigger folliculitis.
- Shower and change clothes promptly after exercise, and always use a fresh towel and washcloth.
- Manage chronic health conditions like diabetes with your doctor’s guidance, as these can make it harder for your body to fight infections.
- Avoid certain wipes, particularly moistened flushable wipes containing methylisothiazolinone, which can irritate the skin.
Butt bumps may look like acne, but they are often caused by folliculitis, carbuncles, keratosis pilaris, or allergies rather than clogged pores. If you notice persistent or worsening bumps, consult your healthcare provider for the best treatment options.
