What’s Causing Your Butt Zits
By McLean & Potomac Dermatology | Skin Tips 2024
Butt acne, or “butt zits,” is a common skin condition that can be both frustrating and uncomfortable. Most of us are familiar with acne on the face, chest, or back manifesting as pimples, blackheads, or cysts. Similarly, butt acne presents this way on the buttocks and upper thighs. While it’s not often discussed, it’s important to understand the causes and effective treatment options.
Causes of Butt Zits
Factors that contribute to the development of butt acne include:
- Excess Sebum Production: Like facial acne, butt acne can occur when the hair follicles become clogged with excess oil (sebum) and dead skin cells.
- Friction and Pressure: Tight clothing, synthetic fabrics, or prolonged sitting creates friction and pressure on the buttocks, leading to irritation and acne formation.
- Bacterial Overgrowth: Propionibacterium acnes, a bacteria commonly found on the skin, can multiply and contribute to inflammation and acne lesions.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly androgens, can increase sebum production and contribute to acne flare-ups.
Treatments and Management
Managing butt zits involves a combination of good hygiene practices and targeted treatments:
- Cleansing: Wash the buttocks gently with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to remove excess oil, sweat, and bacteria without irritating the skin.
- Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation with a gentle scrub or exfoliating cloth can help remove dead skin cells and prevent pores from becoming clogged.
- Moisturizing: Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur can help reduce inflammation and unclog pores.
- Spot Treatments: Apply spot treatments directly to individual pimples or cysts to speed up healing and reduce redness.
Recommended Products
THIS IS A GAME CHANGER. An at-home mini-peel that uses a unique formulation of alpha and beta hydroxy acids in pre-absorbed pads that deliver a gentle daily exfoliation for blemishes and clogged pores.
Pro tip: Cut each pad in half and use 1 half per cheek.
Obagi SUZANOBAGIMD Acne Cleansing Wipes
For oily or acne-prone skin, these disposable wipes are formulated with 2% salicylic acid and witch hazel to help correct and prevent acne while quickly and gently cleansing the skin.
Perfect for on the go or in your gym bag!
Obagi CLENZIderm MD Daily Care Foaming Cleanser
It helps unclog pores and wash away dead skin and impurities. A first step to clearer, healthier-looking skin. Suitable for normal and oily skin types. Cooling menthol leaves skin feeling refreshed.
Add this to your every(thing) shower routine!
Butt zits can be a bothersome and persistent condition. However, effective management is possible with the right skincare routine and products like Skinkures Micro-Peel Pads. By understanding the causes and adopting a consistent approach to skincare, individuals can reduce butt acne and boost confidence. Above all, consulting with a dermatologist can provide personalized advice and treatment options for persistent or severe cases of butt acne. Taking proactive steps towards skin care can lead to clearer, healthier skin on your buttocks and beyond.
To book an appointment with a skin expert at our McLean or Potomac location, text 703-215-2139!
