Another board-certified dermatologist, Jamie MacKelfresh, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, concurs. “Acne on the buttocks is not like the true acne you get on your face, chest, or back,” Dr. MacKelfresh says. RELATED: Why ‘Bacne’ Happens and How to Get Rid of It In general, acne is defined as plugged pores, pimples, and cysts (which go deeper under the skin than pimples) that occur on the face, neck, shoulders, upper arms, and upper back or chest. “Acne is caused by a buildup of oil trapped within the follicles, leading to overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria and subsequent inflammation,” says Dr. Zeichner. “There are high levels of oil glands on the chest, back, and upper arms, and that explains why acne may develop there,” he adds. Bumps on your bum, on the other hand, are likely due to other causes. And while the exact number of cases is unknown, so-called butt “acne” may be on the rise, because, as the market research firm NPD notes, more people are wearing tight, clingy clothing. This type of clothing, termed athleisure, may contribute to these skin problems due to its tightness, especially when you work out and keep the clothes on afterward, dermatologists say. RELATED: What Your Breakouts Tell You About Your Acne Read on to discover what may lead to these annoying bumps, and what you can potentially do to help get rid of them.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis appears as shallow little bumps, and can feel itchy and sore, according to the Mayo Clinic. “I most commonly see a condition called folliculitis,” Zeichner concurs. “Folliculitis on the buttocks typically develops because of friction between clothing and the skin, combined with sweating, which disrupts the outer skin layer,” he says.
Carbuncles
FYI: Having acne does not affect your risk of having either folliculitis or carbuncles. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, though acne and folliculitis (or carbuncles) may look similar, they are indeed different skin conditions. Having severe acne on your face and torso does not mean you are more likely to have folliculitis or carbuncles on your buttocks. Both carbuncles and folliculitis can lead to scarring if not handled correctly, notes the University of Rochester.
Keratosis Pilaris
Contact Dermatitis
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Treatment Options for Getting Rid of ‘Buttne’
Your treatment will depend on whether you have folliculitis, carbuncles, keratosis pilaris, or an allergy. Here’s what to expect. 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,” says MacKelfresh. 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,” says Zeichner. “Let the cleanser lather on the skin while you sing the alphabet before rinsing off — this ensures enough contact time for the active ingredient to do its job.” Carbuncle treatment Because carbuncles go deeper, treatment is more intensive. You may be given an antibiotic (oral or topical) to fight the infection, according to MedlinePlus. 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 at home. Keratosis pilaris treatment Because the condition is painless, and often considered just a variation of normal skin, according to the Mayo Clinic, it can’t be prevented, though moisturizer may help if you’re dealing with dry patches. Allergy treatment Hold off on using any moistened wipes for one month. If you only abstain for a week or two, you may not see your skin clear up, say doctors at the Ohio State University. RELATED: 8 Contact Dermatitis Triggers That May Surprise You
How to Help Prevent ‘Pimples’ From Popping Up on Your Buttocks
“You can prevent ‘butt acne’ by staying in good health overall,” says MacKelfresh. Try taking these precautions:
Wear loose clothing whenever possible. Tight clothing, especially when combined with sweat, can cause skin irritation that leads to folliculitis. Be sure to change your clothes and take a shower after exercise. Also, the Mayo Clinic advises using a fresh towel and washcloth after bathing.Work with your doctor to bring any chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, under control. Chronic health issues can make it harder for your body to fight off infection.If you do get folliculitis, make sure you get it promptly under control to avoid carbuncles and the need for more aggressive treatment.Avoid moistened flushable wipes, especially those made with MI.
Additional reporting by Leslie Barrie.
