Why Bumps On Butt Occur And How To Get Rid Of Them
As the weather gets warmer, our layers of clothing tend to become lighter, and we reveal more of our skin. Maybe the thought of this makes you nervous because you struggle with embarrassing bumps on your butt that do not go away. You are not alone! Red bumps on the butt are way more common than most people think, and often it’s a result of folliculitis. The good news is that there are ways to treat it, and with time you can achieve a smooth, bump-free butt!
What are the Skin Conditions Leading to Bumps On Butt?
Before and After - Almond Clear Level 2 Mandelic Acid
Whether you are at the gym, in a bathing suit at the beach, or cuddled up at home, it can be a real confidence killer to live with uncomfortable bumps on your butt. So what’s causing the breakouts? Your bumps could be caused by a few different skin concerns, including folliculitis, carbuncles, keratosis pilaris, and contact dermatitis.
Folliculitis
Before and After - Almond Clear Level 2 Mandelic Acid
Folliculitis is very common and occurs when hair follicles become inflamed. It is often confused for butt acne when, in reality, these red acne-like breakouts result from a fungal or bacterial infection of the hair follicles. Since we grow hair all over our bodies, these bumps can form anywhere, but the most common places are in areas where we sweat the most, such as the forehead, chest, butt, and inner thighs. It can also appear on the scalp and in beards. Folliculitis can look like a rash or a cluster of tiny bumps called pustules. The bumps sometimes itch or burn.
Causes Of Folliculitis On Buttocks
The main culprits of folliculitis appearing on the butt is friction from close-fitting clothing, sweating, and sitting for a long time. Friction and pressure are a combination that can irritate hair follicles. This friction is standard in the butt crack, where there is constant skin-to-skin contact. The hairs on our bodies follow a growth cycle, so when inflammation occurs, it disrupts this process and forms itchy or uncomfortable visible bumps.
Bacteria and fungi can infect the hair follicles, making the skin condition worse and often painful for those who experience it. Shaving or other hair removal practices on the butt can also cause irritation and ingrown hairs because of clogged dead skin. This can also result in swollen folliculitis appearing on your butt.
Carbuncles
Carbuncles are another skin condition that can result in butt bumps. Carbuncles are a more severe case of folliculitis. A carbuncle is a cluster of connected boils caused by bacterial infection. This is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. These infections occur deeper in the skin and involve multiple hair follicles.
Carbuncles may develop when folliculitis becomes more severe and widespread. The infection can worsen and lead to a more painful, angry lump beneath the skin's surface. It can cause discomfort, swelling, and pus drainage. People with recurring folliculitis or those with previous carbuncles are also at higher risk of developing this skin condition.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics to address the bacterial infection and measures to relieve pain and promote healing.
Keratosis Pilaris
Another skin condition associated with butt bumps is keratosis pilaris (aka “strawberry skin”). Keratosis pilaris (KP) is caused by the accumulation of keratin within the hair follicles. This buildup of keratin causes small, hard plugs that block the hair follicles, resulting in many tiny bumps on the skin's surface.
Keratin is a protein found in the skin. The excessive production of this protein causes the follicles to become clogged and rough to the touch. These bumps may appear flesh-colored, white, or red. KP can occur on various parts of the body, such as arms and thighs, but it can also affect the butt. Individuals with dry skin, eczema, or a family history of keratosis pilaris may be more prone to developing this condition.
Treatment options for keratosis pilaris on the buttocks typically focus on exfoliation and moisture to help remove the keratin plugs and smooth the skin's texture elimination bumpy skin. Using gentle skincare products and avoiding harsh scrubbing can help people manage symptoms and improve the appearance of the affected area.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact Dermatitis is another cause of butt breakouts. This refers to a skin condition typically characterized by itching, redness, and sometimes bumps or blisters resulting from contact with irritants or allergens.
In the case of butt bumps, contact dermatitis can develop when the skin comes into contact with substances that trigger an allergic reaction or irritation. Common irritants include soaps, detergents, perfumes, and certain synthetic fabrics or clothing materials. Allergens such as latex, certain metals, or specific ingredients in skincare products can also provoke a reaction in susceptible individuals.
The butt area may be particularly vulnerable to contact dermatitis due to friction from clothing, sweating, and prolonged sitting, which can exacerbate skin irritation. Additionally, the skin in this area may be more sensitive or prone to reactions than other body parts.
How to Get Rid Of Bumps On Butt
Before and After - Almond Clear Level 2 Mandelic Acid
Struggling with butt bumps, specifically those caused by conditions like folliculitis, can be super uncomfortable and frustrating. These unwanted bumps can affect your confidence, but the good news is that you can use several tips and solutions such as topical treatments and habit practices to treat this issue and achieve smoother skin.
Apply Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid is a game changer in promoting skin renewal. This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) is derived from bittered almonds and is known for being more gentle than popular AHAs. It has powerful exfoliating properties that clear clogged pores. Additionally, it is safe for sensitive skin. It’s antibacterial and antifungal properties make it a great choice for promoting skin health and for treating butt bumps/body acne.
Apply a Lactic Acid Lotion
Using a lactic acid lotion can gently exfoliate the skin and help alleviate butt bumps. Lactic acid helps dissolve dead cells and promotes a clearer skin texture. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consult a dermatologist who can provide personalized recommendations or suggest a lactic acid lotion that works for you.
Use Salicylic Acid Medicated Pads
Using a beta hydroxy acid such as salicylic acid can help fight against butt bumps. This BHA has the ability to penetrate deep into the skin pores and remove excess oil and dead skin cells. It has exfoliating properties that help reduce inflammation.
When using salicylic acid-medicated pads, cleanse the area with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Then take a pad and gently swipe the area prone to butt bumps. Make sure not to rub or scrub because this can cause excessive further irritation. Finally, follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Use A Benzoyl Peroxide Wash Or Gel
Benzoyl Peroxide is widely known for its strong antibacterial properties. It can combat acne and common skin conditions. It works great at treating butt bumps because it eliminates the bacteria that cause infections and inflamed hair follicles. Be cautious and start with lower concentrations, as it is essential to avoid irritation when introducing Benzoyl Peroxide into your routine.
Use the Right Moisturizer
It is important to choose the right moisturizer to maintain skin hydration and avoid worsening folliculitis. Look for non-comedogenic moisturizers. These products won’t clog or block your skin's pores. Products that contain ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid can help restore your skin's natural barrier.
Shave the Right Way
Sometimes, shaving incorrectly can worsen folliculitis. Use a clean razor to avoid adding bacteria to the skin, and then shave in the direction of hair growth to reduce ingrown hair and irritation. Shaving gel or cream can help lubricate the skin and promote a smoother shave.
Shower After Sweating
Sweating can cause bumps on the buttocks. Bacteria and oils on the skin's surface can mix with sweat, clog pores, and lead to conditions like folliculitis. It’s important to cleanse the skin promptly after sweating to remove any impurities and prevent further irritation.
After engaging in activities that cause sweat, consider showering right after. Wearing sweaty workout clothes for a prolonged time can cause more flare-ups. Use a gentle cleanser and pay attention to the areas where bumps are present. Rinsing away sweat and bacteria can help reduce the likelihood of developing or worsening folliculitis.
Avoid Fabric Softeners
Sometimes, fabric softeners can irritate the skin and cause body bumps. Consider using a fragrance-free detergent. Another option is to rinse clothes twice to remove any residue from the softener.
Apply a Warm Compress
Consider applying a warm compress for immediate relief from inflamed skin and discomfort associated with butt bumps. A warm compress can help reduce swelling and encourage bumps to drain. As a result, this leads to faster healing and soothed skin.
Soak a clean washcloth in warm water to make a warm compress and squeeze out the excess moisture. Make sure the water is not too hot to avoid burning or irritating the skin. Then, gently apply the warm compress to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes.
Wear Loose, Natural Clothing
The first thing to consider is what type of clothing you wear regularly. Close-fitting clothing can trap sweat and moisture against your skin, irritating your skin and making existing bumps grow. The trapped moisture makes it ideal for folliculitis-causing bacteria to grow, and skin conditions like folliculitis worsen when this happens. So, to avoid this, wear loose-fitting clothing. Avoid synthetic materials and choose natural and breathable fabrics like cotton. These materials will result in better airflow and reduce sweat and moisture buildup.
When to See a Dermatologist
Although butt bumps can often be managed and treated with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments, there are instances when seeking professional help could be necessary. If the bumps are becoming widespread, worsening, or showing signs of infection, seek medical attention from a dermatologist who can offer medical treatments/prescription treatments.
Redness, tenderness, or a fever could be a sign of infection, and it is essential to seek immediate medical attention when these symptoms worsen. In some cases, prescription medications are required to treat butt bumps better.
How Does Exfoliating Help Treat Folliculitis?
Chemical exfoliation is the key to treating butt bumps formed from folliculitis. By removing clogs of dead skin cells and dirt, chemical exfoliating will can clear your pores and eliminate body breakouts. By being consistent with your exfoliating practices, you can prevent future flare-ups.
Mandelic Acid Products That’ll Help
Before and After - Almond Clear Level 2 Mandelic Acid
Almond Clear is a skincare brand designed to clear acne and folliculitis by harnessing the power of mandelic acid. Thousands of people have cleared their booty breakouts with Almond Clear’s products.
A simple and effective routine for booty breakouts using Almond Clear is :
- Face and body wash - This gentle cleanser has 2% mandelic acid and is safe to use daily. Gently rub the wash on the affected skin and rinse off with lukewarm water. Make sure not to scrub harshly to avoid irritation.
- Level 2 Exfoliating Serum—This exfoliating serum contains 15% mandelic acid and packs a punch. Use it every other day on the affected area until your skin adjusts to daily use. For optimal results, use twice daily.
- Soothing Daily Moisturizer - It is important to soothe and hydrate your skin following any exfoliating treatment. The Soothing Daily Moisturizer has natural and calming ingredients to help combat any redness and dryness. It helps repair the skin barrier and provides moisture to your skin.
Key Takeaways
- Common Causes of Butt Bumps: Butt bumps can be caused by various skin conditions including folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), carbuncles (clusters of boils), keratosis pilaris (keratin buildup in hair follicles), and contact dermatitis (skin reaction to irritants or allergens).
- Treatment Options: Effective treatments for butt bumps include:
- Mandelic Acid: This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds has powerful exfoliating, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it ideal for treating and preventing butt bumps.
- Lactic Acid Lotion: Gently exfoliates the skin to promote a smoother texture and reduce bumps.
- Salicylic Acid Medicated Pads: Penetrates deep into pores to remove oil and dead skin cells, reducing inflammation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide Wash or Gel: Strong antibacterial agent that eliminates bacterial growth causing inflammation in clogged hair follicles.
- Moisturizer: Choose non-comedogenic moisturizers to maintain hydration and support skin barrier function.
- Proper Shaving Technique: Use clean razors, shave in the direction of hair growth, and use shaving gel or cream to prevent ingrown hairs.
- Showering After Sweating: Cleansing with an antibacterial soap immediately after sweating removes impurities and prevents further blemishes.
- Avoiding Fabric Softeners: These can cause irritated skin and can lead to blemishes.
- Applying Warm Compress: Provides immediate relief by reducing swelling and promoting drainage.
- Wearing Loose, Natural Clothing: Allows better airflow and reduces sweat and moisture buildup. Avoid sweaty clothes or tight-fitting clothing for a prolonged time.
3. When to Seek Professional Help: If butt bumps worsen, become widespread, or show signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or fever, consult a board-certified dermatologist. Prescription medications may be necessary for severe cases.
4. Exfoliation for Treatment: Mandelic Acid is a gentle but powerful exfoliant that helps treat butt bumps by clearing pores and removing dead skin cells and dirt. Consistent exfoliation can prevent future flare-ups.
5. Recommended Products: Almond Clear offers skincare products containing mandelic acid specifically designed to clear acne and folliculitis on the buttocks. This includes a face and body wash, exfoliating serum, and soothing daily moisturizer.
