15 Ways to Eliminate Folliculitis and Pimples on Your Butt

To my dismay, my hormonal acne wreaks havoc not only on my cheeks and chin but also on my entire body. Although dealing with chest and back acne has been bothersome, the real struggle lies in the existence of butt acne that has haunted me since I hit puberty. Imagine pores congested with blemishes, along with blackheads and whiteheads that become painfully inflamed and leave lasting hyperpigmentation. However, after enduring a decade of butt breakouts, I have discovered a handful of tried-and-true remedies that effectively combat butt acne. And now, I am graciously passing on this knowledge to you.

But before diving in, keep in mind that not all bumps on your buttocks necessarily mean you have butt acne. It could be a case of folliculitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, or keratosis pilaris, all of which require different treatment approaches. Don’t worry, though, because I’ve got you covered. I’ve consulted with six dermatologists who have shared their expert advice on how to identify these bumps and provided their top recommendations for treating and soothing breakouts. So let’s jump into it and find out what’s causing those bumps on your butt.

Have you ever wondered why you sometimes get pesky pimples on your buttocks? Well, it turns out that the cause is similar to acne you may experience anywhere else on your body. According to dermatologist Dr. Neda Mehr, factors like hormones, stress, and genetics can play a role in increasing the production of oil in your skin. When excess sebum accumulates in your pores, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to settle in and cause inflammation, resulting in a pimple. What makes the buttocks prone to these breakouts is the fact that we spend a great deal of time sitting on them. This prolonged pressure can easily lead to clogged pores, leading to those infamous butt bumps. Dermatologist Dr. Morgan Rabach explains that this phenomenon is common among people of all genders and age groups. So, if you’re dealing with butt acne, just remember that it’s a natural occurrence influenced by various factors, but it’s nothing to be alarmed about.

According to dermatologist Tiffany Libby, MD, one of the major causes of breakouts is irritation from clothing rubbing against the buttocks. This includes tight gym clothes that can trap sweat, oil, and bacteria, as well as friction or occlusion from sitting for extended periods. Dr. Mehr adds that butt bumps can also be the result of using harsh skincare products, bacterial overgrowth, or allergic reactions. For instance, an allergic reaction to the nickel in a bikini trimmer can lead to inflammation of the hair follicle or skin irritation.

Did you know that those little bumps on your behind might not actually be butt acne? It turns out that your butt goes through a lot of friction from your clothes, sitting, walking, and even working out. On top of that, it deals with sweat and bacteria, making it the perfect breeding ground for different types of skin bumps. So, let’s dive into this topic and explore what these bumps really are!

So, before you go out and purchase a selection of potent exfoliants and benzoyl-peroxide washes that claim to be the ultimate solution for your butt acne, it’s essential to identify the specific type of bumps you’re dealing with. Let me break down the most common types of butt bumps for you real quick. Just keep in mind that only a dermatologist can accurately diagnose your bumps, so it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your skin expert or explore convenient options like Apostrophe or Curology’s telemedicine services.

Are you familiar with those pesky breakouts that appear on your face? Well, those are just one type of clogged pores, also known as generic acne. But did you know that you can also experience the same kind of zits on your derriere? It’s true! When your skin becomes congested with oil, dirt, and dead skin cells, your pores become blocked, resulting in those annoying bumps and acne. It’s like when traffic gets backed up on a busy road, causing a major traffic jam. In this case, the congestion happens on your skin, leading to blemishes and breakouts. So, whether it’s on your face or your booty, clogged pores happen when trapped gunk causes a buildup, creating those unwanted bumps.

According to Dr. Rabach, acne is characterized by clogged pores known as comedones. These comedones can either be open, commonly referred to as blackheads, or closed, commonly referred to as whiteheads. In essence, acne is all about the classic appearance: a combination of whiteheads, possibly some blackheads, and maybe even a pimple that is cystic in nature. You’re probably familiar with this scenario, right?

When your hair follicles become infected and inflamed, it leads to a condition called folliculitis. This is the main culprit behind the commonly known “butt acne” that can be a cause for concern among both patients and doctors. Symptoms of folliculitis often include small, red, or pink bumps on lighter skin tones, or purple or brown bumps on deeper skin tones. These bumps typically have a tiny whitehead-like appearance. However, unlike regular pimples filled with pus, folliculitis bumps are the result of an irritated hair follicle blocked by inflammation, leading to a mild infection within the follicle, as explained by Dr. Libby.

To the untrained eye, folliculitis and acne may appear similar. However, dermatologists can easily identify several significant differences between them. Unlike acne, where a hair can become trapped under the skin, folliculitis occurs when a hair follicle is inflamed and has a hair at its center. The white material associated with folliculitis is often composed of dead skin and white blood cells, rather than the typical whitehead seen in acne. Additionally, while acne commonly presents as single bumps, folliculitis manifests as a cluster of similarly sized bumps that resemble whiteheads. Next time you suspect a skin issue, consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.

Keratosis pilaris, also known as KP, is a common skin condition that occurs when there is an overproduction of keratin in the hair follicles. This leads to the formation of small, rough bumps that can appear red or brown depending on your skin tone. Typically, these bumps are found on the back of the arms, thighs, or buttocks. Surprisingly, around 40 percent of adults are affected by KP, which is primarily determined by genetics. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for keratosis pilaris, but there are various treatments available, both at professional clinics and at home, that can help alleviate the condition by making the skin softer.

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also known as acne inversa, is a condition that affects your sweat glands, causing painful bumps or boils. These can range from mild, where they are large and painful, to severe, where they become filled with blood and pus. Typically, this condition occurs in areas of the body where there is a lot of friction and sweat, such as the buttocks, armpits, groin, and under the breasts. These bumps resemble enormous blind pimples or cystic zits that are located beneath the skin. While it is the least common type of bump on this list, it is important to be aware of hidradenitis suppurativa because it requires medical attention from a dermatologist or doctor.

If you’re wondering whether you have hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), here’s a clue: the bumps are not your ordinary tiny pimples – they’re bigger and more excruciating. And if that bump keeps showing up in the exact same spot, that’s a pretty typical sign of HS. Don’t hesitate – book an appointment with a dermatologist pronto, because they can diagnose HS and take action before it gets worse. Treatments for this condition vary from using antibacterial creams and taking oral medicines to receiving steroid injections or even getting injectable medications in more severe cases.

Before trying to eliminate acne on your buttocks, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist to correctly identify the type of bumps you have. By knowing the specific cause, you can effectively treat the issue. While certain conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa and hormonal acne may necessitate medical intervention, folliculitis, traditional pimples, and keratosis pilaris can be managed using a combination of products and lifestyle adjustments. Therefore, after scheduling an appointment with your dermatologist, take proactive steps by following the recommendations below.

Dermatologist Karen Chinonso Kagha, MD warns that attempting to squeeze or pop a butt pimple can actually make it angrier, more irritated, and even spread bacteria and infection to other areas of your skin. This can potentially result in long-term scarring and discoloration. Additionally, it is important to note that cysts or boils cannot be squeezed as they are not connected to the surface of your skin, making them truly un-poppable. Moreover, this misguided attempt can also result in severe inflammation, which may necessitate an urgent trip to a healthcare professional for antibiotics, injections, or draining. Clearly, this is not an ideal situation.

If you’re dealing with a stubborn bump on your skin, why not schedule a visit to your dermatologist? They can administer a cortisone injection that works wonders in fighting inflammation and flattening the pesky bump. Alternatively, if the bump isn’t too big, there are other options to consider…

According to Dr. Kagha, rather than attempting to pop or squeeze your butt acne or bump, a more effective approach is to apply a spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient can help eliminate some of the bacteria responsible for causing acne, resulting in faster healing and decreased inflammation. If you have an allergy to benzoyl peroxide or if your skin is sensitive, an alternative option is to use a spot treatment containing salicylic acid. This gentle exfoliant helps to remove dead skin cells in the affected area, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores. Simply apply a small amount to your clean acne before going to bed, wipe it off in the morning, and follow up with a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer designed for acne-prone skin.

When it comes to fighting bumps, including clogged pores, hair follicles, and keratin plugs, your go-to solution is retinoids. These are vitamin-A derivatives like retinol, tretinoin (which is available by prescription only), and adapalene for acne. Think of retinoids as the crossing guard for your oil glands, speeding up and regulating the shedding process. In simpler terms, they keep things moving smoothly, as explained by dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, in an interview with Cosmo.

Dr. Gohara explains that when the glands in our body become inactive, they fail to shed dead skin cells, leading to clogged pores. In these plugged pores, bacteria begin to thrive and form zits. However, if we maintain a regular shedding process, the bacteria won’t have enough to feed on. To tackle and avoid butt bumps, especially if you have sensitive skin or keratosis pilaris (KP), it’s helpful to use a mild body lotion containing retinol. Retinol combines with moisturizers to mitigate any potential irritation, providing relief for existing bumps and preventing new ones from forming.

But if you’re struggling with unsightly butt pimples, you’ll likely require a more potent solution than a lotion infused with retinol. One exceptional option available over the counter is Adapalene gel – also known as Differin or La-Roche Posay Effaclar. This gel contains a prescription-strength retinoid specially formulated to combat acne. Alternatively, if you’re dealing with persistent butt acne or cystic butt zits, tretinoin may be necessary. This powerful retinoid, though harsh, is the strongest option available. If you’re unable to visit a dermatologist in person, consider exploring telemedicine services such as Curology or Ro Derm. These services connect you with a doctor virtually, providing you with the expertise you need to address your concerns.

Hey there! Here’s a tip to keep in mind: When you’re giving retinoids a shot, take it slow. Begin by applying a small amount, like the size of a pea, onto your clean and dry skin once a week for a week. Then, gradually increase it to two nights a week for two weeks. After that, you can keep up with three nights a week indefinitely. Don’t forget to moisturize right after and don’t skimp on SPF! Make sure to use a sunscreen with a protection factor of 30 or higher every morning.

When your skin is angry and irritated, applying a calming moisturizer every night before bed can do wonders for calming down butt acne, folliculitis, KP, or HS. It’s important to choose a moisturizer that is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as colloidal oatmeal, niacinamide, aloe vera, and allantoin. These ingredients work together to reduce inflammation and help your bumps heal faster. If you’re dealing with a particularly painful, large lump, applying a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream twice a day for three days can help reduce swelling.

According to Dr. Kagha, if you want to get rid of dark spots on your skin and prevent future acne scars, it’s best to use brightening ingredients like kojic acid, azelaic acid, or tranexamic acid. These ingredients work by reducing the amount of melanin your skin produces, which is the culprit behind those pesky discolorations. By using a serum with these brighteners two to three times a week, either in the morning or at night (but not at the same time as retinoids), you can fade existing dark spots and avoid any potential irritation. Dr. Kagha emphasizes the importance of using these brighteners consistently to achieve desired results.

If you’re struggling with legitimate butt acne, give an acne body wash a shot (or an acne face wash if you’ve got one handy) that’s got some benzoyl peroxide in it. According to Dr. Libby and dermatologist Shereene Idriss, MD, benzoyl peroxide is great for getting rid of the bacteria that cause acne. Dr. Libby suggests giving your breakouts a nice massage with the body wash once or twice a week while you’re showering (just remember that benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics, so give it a good rinse).

In case you’re not a fan of benzoyl peroxide because it causes allergic reactions or irritates your skin, there’s another option you can explore: salicylic acid. This powerful ingredient tackles the stubborn clogged pores on your derriere, whether it’s present in a body wash, spot treatment, or skin mist. While benzoyl peroxide is excellent for combating bacteria-induced acne, salicylic acid has an added advantage of not only unclogging pores but also effectively diminishing bumps, dark spots, and acne scars when applied in leave-on products such as toners or moisturizers. So, don’t worry if one solution doesn’t work for you, as there are alternatives available to address your specific needs.

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If you’ve given all the body washes, scrubs, spot treatments, and lifestyle changes a try for a solid six weeks and are still struggling with those pesky bumps, it’s time to schedule a chat with a dermatologist to discuss some possible medications that can soothe inflammation and decrease the bacteria that causes acne on your buttocks, folliculitis, and HS. Your friendly dermatologist might want to start you off on some topical antibiotics, such as a light clindamycin lotion or a serum with clindamycin and retinol. Alternatively, they might suggest going on a short oral antibiotic course, like the broad-spectrum doxycycline or the newer, more acne-specific antibiotic called Seysara.

If the acne on your buttocks doesn’t improve with topical antibiotics or at-home remedies, your doctor might recommend spironolactone or oral contraceptives. These medications work by reducing the production of androgens in your body, which are hormones responsible for excess oil production in your skin. So, if you’re struggling with stubborn butt acne, don’t worry – there are options to regulate it and get your skin back on track.

Looking for a surefire solution to tackle that stubborn acne? Look no further than Isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane. This game-changing treatment works wonders by permanently reducing the size of your oil glands. Don’t fret though, it’s not as daunting as it seems. Regular blood tests and monitoring are necessary, so it’s always best to discuss any concerns or queries with your doctor. Another option worth exploring is Aviclear, a cutting-edge acne-treatment laser that also does the trick by shrinking those pesky oil glands. The cherry on top? It only takes three sessions, one month apart. However, it’s worth noting that insurance typically doesn’t cover the cost, which usually amounts to around $3,000 for a complete series.

If you’re battling butt pimples caused by blocked pores, whether due to your tendency to perspire or having naturally oily skin, Dr. Rabach recommends trying an in-office chemical peel. This treatment employs an acid-based solution (such as glycolic, lactic, mandelic, and TCA) to exfoliate the upper layers of your skin. In addition to promoting the shedding of dead skin cells, it can also decrease hyperpigmentation, boost collagen production (with professional-grade concentrations), and improve the uneven texture of your buttocks. Therefore, a chemical peel is an effective solution for combating butt acne and achieving a smoother and more even skin appearance.

Different strengths of chemical peels are available depending on where you get them. The strongest peels are only offered by dermatologists or at medspas, and they can be done every four to six weeks. However, if you prefer a less intense treatment, you can try doing an at-home chemical peel every two weeks. These peels use lower strengths of the same exfoliating chemicals to remove dead skin and improve the texture of your butt acne. It’s important to note that high-strength chemical peels are only effective for true acne, not for conditions like keratosis pilaris, hidradenitis suppurativa, or folliculitis. In fact, using a high-strength peel for these conditions can actually make them worse. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to consult with your dermatologist before trying anything new.

According to Dr. Mehr, wearing fabrics that don’t allow your skin to breathe, such as nylon and polyester, creates a tight barrier that traps sweat and bacteria against your buttocks, like wrapping it in cellophane. This not only pushes bacteria into your pores but also causes inflammation that can lead to folliculitis, clogging your pores and aggravating HS. If you find yourself needing to wear tight workout clothes, it’s a good idea to choose breathable cotton activewear instead. This will help prevent sweat from getting trapped against your skin. When you’re done with your workout, make sure to remove the clothes as soon as you get home and give your body a quick rinse to stay fresh.

When you wear sticky clothes, all the dirt, oil, sweat, and grime get trapped against your skin, causing irritation and those annoying butt bumps. So after you finish exercising or you’ve been sweating in scorching temperatures, jump in the shower and use a body wash to scrub away all the gunk. But if you can’t access a shower right away, whether it’s a long commute home or a quick workout during your lunch break followed by drinks, no worries! Just grab a fragrance-free body wipe and gently clean the skin on your butt. After that, spritz a bit of salicylic-acid spray and then change into dry clothes.

Folliculitis emerges when the hair follicle becomes swollen, but fret not, there is a way out! Say hello to laser hair removal, your ultimate solution to combat this trouble. This miraculous treatment gradually dismantles the hair follicle, helping to treat and prevent folliculitis. Dr. Mehr, our hair guru, enlightens us by explaining, “The secret lies in obliterating the root of the hair follicle.” It’s fascinating to learn that the bacteria responsible for folliculitis infiltrates the body through pores and ventures its way down to the hair follicles. So, let’s bid adieu to this pesky problem with a little help from laser hair removal!

As you gradually damage the hair follicle, it becomes narrower which makes it more difficult for bacteria to enter and trigger inflammation. Although laser hair removal doesn’t completely cure folliculitis or remove hair entirely, it can still be a valuable resource in warding off bumps in the long run.

If you’re experiencing painful, itchy, and inflamed bumps on your buttocks, you may be tempted to aggressively scrub and use excessive chemical exfoliants and body peels to get rid of them. However, this will only worsen the problem. To effectively treat butt acne or any type of buttock bump, it is crucial to take a gradual and gentle approach, even though it may be difficult to resist the urge to do otherwise.

Are you a daily showerer? Well, if you are and you’re also battling acne, then listen up because this is important. You might be tempted to go all-out and use intense acne products every single day, but that could actually do more harm than good. The key here is to give your skin a breather and space out those active ingredients. In other words, use just one product per day. For instance, on the days when you use a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid wash, don’t use an exfoliating pad. Instead, go for a gentle cleanser that packs some serious moisture with its hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol. These ingredients will help your skin hold in moisture on the days you’re taking a break from the heavy-duty chemicals. Oh and here’s a friendly tip: always finish off with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin happy and hydrated. Trust me, it’s worth it.

If you’ve gone a little overboard and are now grappling with irritated and inflamed skin—or if one of your pimples is causing you significant discomfort and pulsating pain—simply apply a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream twice daily for a maximum of five days. This will help reduce the redness and inflammation. If, after a week, you still require a steroid cream, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to explore a more personalized treatment option.

Did you know that irritating your skin is as easy as using certain products? Folliculitis and keratosis pilaris, the annoying conditions that cause butt acne and bumps, can be triggered by harsh chemicals, scrubs, and even seemingly harmless ingredients like fragrance, essential oils, and dyes. But what’s even more surprising is that even your laundry routine can contribute to the problem. Residues from laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets can irritate your skin and make the situation worse, particularly if you have sensitive skin.

Why not make the switch to hypoallergenic laundry products that are fragrance-free and gentle on your skin? Look for labels that say “free and clear” and give your sheets and clothes a thorough wash with the new detergent. If your skin continues to feel irritated and blotchy even after two washes, then you can safely eliminate the detergent as the cause.

Butt bumps can come in many forms, ranging from blocked pores to conditions like keratosis pilaris, folliculitis, and HS. If you’ve tried spot treatments with salicylic acid or using benzoyl peroxide washes, but haven’t seen any improvement, it’s time to make an appointment with your dermatologist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Don’t feel awkward about seeking help for butt acne – it’s incredibly common and something that many people (including myself!) experience at some point. So, there’s no need to be embarrassed when discussing all the details with your doctor. Besides, who wouldn’t want a few extra “🍑🍑🍑” comments on their next bikini pic on Instagram? I know I would!

Beth Gillette, the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, has a wealth of expertise in the realm of skincare. With over five years of experience, she has dedicated her time to thoroughly researching, writing, and editing various articles on acne, covering topics that span from treatments for ingrown hairs to specialized shampoos for scalp acne. While her knowledge extends across all skincare categories, her mastery lies in the field of body acne. Having personally battled with back, chest, and butt acne for well over a decade, she has gained valuable insights that have honed her expertise. Continuously committed to ensuring efficacy, Beth diligently tests and evaluates skincare products, collaborating closely with renowned dermatologists to evaluate the effectiveness of newly developed formulas and brands.

Brooke Shunatona, a seasoned beauty enthusiast, dedicated almost five years of her life as the senior beauty editor at Cosmopolitan. With eight years of expertise, she has honed her craft in crafting captivating content about beauty and lifestyle, both in print and digital mediums. Her extensive repertoire covers a wide range of topics, from addressing the pesky issue of a pimple in your nose to discovering effective solutions for oily skin. With her delightful writing style and wealth of knowledge, Brooke is your go-to expert to tackle all things beauty-related.

Beth Gillette is a talented writer who specializes in beauty topics. As the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, she dives into various areas of expertise, including skincare, makeup, hair, nails, and more. You can catch her in action, passionately typing away on her latest article while sporting vibrant eyeshadow. She’s always on the lookout for exciting new products that she believes are a must-try. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Beth spent four years as an Editor at The Everygirl, honing her skills in crafting and editing beauty-related content. For a glimpse into her personal style and occasional hair transformations, don’t forget to follow her on Instagram. There, you’ll find captivating makeup selfies and fresh hairstyles every few months.

Brooke Shunatona, an amazing writer, is an invaluable contributor to the fabulous Cosmopolitan.com.