GET YOUR FIRST TREATMENT KIT FOR FREE get started

GET YOUR FIRST TREATMENT KIT FOR FREE get started

Dermatologist Recommended

Your Cart is Empty

Start your journey to clear skin.
Take the quiz
Shop all products

How to Get Rid of Pimples on the Butt

Woman wearing a bikini on the beach with sand on her butt

Butt Acne: What It Is and How to Kick It to the Curb

We’ve all been there—those unwelcome bumps on your backside that show up uninvited and refuse to leave. While they may look like regular pimples, butt acne (or folliculitis, if you want to get fancy) isn’t your standard zit. It’s more like your hair follicles throwing a tantrum.

If butt acne is a pain in your… well, butt, don’t worry—we’ve got all the tips, tricks, and laughs to help you boot those bumps for good.

What Causes Butt Acne?

Unlike the acne on your face, butt acne isn’t about hormones or genetics—it’s usually caused by good old-fashioned friction, sweat, and bacteria teaming up to ruin your day.

Here’s the lowdown on what’s behind those pesky bumps:

  • Tight Clothing: Skinny jeans may be chic, but they’re also folliculitis’ BFF. Tight fabrics rub against your skin, causing irritation.
  • Sweaty Situations: Forgetting to change out of your workout clothes? Big mistake. Sweaty fabrics are like a welcome mat for bacteria.
  • Bacteria and Fungus: Sometimes, your follicles just can’t catch a break—Staphylococcus aureus and Pityrosporum can crash the party, causing even more trouble.

Woman wearing jeans, which can cause butt acne (i.e. folliculitis) by causing friction on the skin

How to Prevent Butt Acne

The best defense is a good offense, so here’s how to keep your backside smooth and bump-free:

  1. Say No to Tight Pants
    Sure, skinny jeans look great, but they’re not worth the bumps. Opt for looser, breathable fabrics like cotton. Your butt deserves comfort too!

  2. Sweat? Change ASAP!
    Sweaty clothes are butt acne’s best friend. Hop into the shower and fresh clothes as soon as you’re done working out (or lounging too hard).

  3. Don’t Be a Couch Potato
    Sitting for hours can trap heat and sweat, turning your chair into a butt-acne incubator. Stand up, stretch, or take a walk—it’s good for your skin and your soul.

  4. Fresh Undies, Always
    Wearing yesterday’s underwear? Nope. Just nope. Keep things clean and comfy to avoid irritation.

How to Treat Butt Acne (Because Prevention Doesn’t Always Work)

If prevention isn’t enough, it’s time to bring in the big guns:

1. Wash with a Medicated Cleanser

Use a salicylic acid cleanser (2%) to gently unclog pores, banish bacteria, and keep breakouts at bay. No scrubbing, though—your butt isn’t a car that needs detailing!

For stubborn cases, try washing 2–3 times a week with an anti-dandruff shampoo like Selsun Blue or Nizoral—yes, it works on fungal infections down there too.

2. Treat with Medical-Grade Creams

Look for creams with benzoyl peroxide (5%) or salicylic acid (2%) to tackle bacteria and inflammation. Bonus points if they include:

  • Tea Tree Oil: Nature’s antibacterial multitasker.
  • Green Tea Extract: Soothes irritation and fades spots.
  • Licorice Extract: For when your butt needs a little brightening.

3. Moisturize (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)

Dry skin isn’t your friend. Use an oil-free moisturizer with calming ingredients to reduce redness and speed up healing.

Best treatments for pimples on the buttocks infographics

What About Those Dark Spots?

So, you’ve tackled the bumps, but now you’re left with annoying dark spots. The best way to deal? A dark spot corrector with:

  • Arbutin: A powerful brightener for hyperpigmentation.
  • Plant-Based Brighteners: Like licorice or alpha-arbutin for a gentler approach.

Just remember: sunscreen is your secret weapon. If your butt’s going to see the sun (beach day, anyone?), protect it to prevent spots from getting worse.


Natural Remedies: Are They Worth It?

Home remedies sound great—until they don’t work. Stick to proven ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, but if you want a natural boost, look for products with:

  • Tea Tree Oil: Fights bacteria.
  • Cucumber Extract: Keeps oil production in check.
  • Green Tea Extract: Helps with post-acne marks.

Quick Butt Acne FAQs

  • Does Waxing Cause Butt Acne?
    Yep. Waxing can clog hair follicles and lead to flare-ups. Shaving or sugaring is a gentler alternative.

  • Can Exfoliating Help?
    Nope. Harsh scrubs can make things worse. Be gentle with your skin!

  • Will Benzoyl Peroxide Bleach My Towels?
    Oh, absolutely. Stick to white towels unless you like the tie-dye look.


Tips for a Happy, Acne-Free Butt

  1. Shower after working out (no excuses).
  2. Wear loose, breathable fabrics—skinny jeans can wait.
  3. Skip the loofah—it’s not helping.
  4. Moisturize to keep your skin healthy.
  5. Treat breakouts early with medicated cleansers and creams.

Final Thoughts

Butt acne might be embarrassing, but it’s totally treatable with the right care and a little patience. Ditch the tight pants, upgrade your skincare routine, and remember: your butt deserves love too.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a smoother, happier backside in no time.

To find the right acne treatments for your unique skin, take the free skin assessment by clicking here.

Start your journey
to clear skin

  • Custom acne treatment cream, cleanser and moisturizer
  • Unlimited Dermatologist support
  • Ongoing skin monitoring