In some cases, butt acne can overlap with another condition known as keratosis pilaris, where there is a rough and bumpy texture to the skin without true pimples, in which case an exfoliating product containing lactic acid or glycolic acid can be helpful.
Are There Any Precautions to Take When Treating This Area? Is There Anything You Should Absolutely Avoid Doing?
“While you should never pop a pimple or squeeze it, it is especially important to avoid doing so in the buttocks area, given the potential risk of infection and the challenge of actually seeing the spot you’re targeting,” cautions Dr. Garshick, who also notes that with prolonged sitting, anything that is applied to the buttocks “can have greater penetration and thus, potential for more irritation.”
Which is why Dr. Penzi says to avoid starting with higher strength treatments (i.e, benzoyl peroxide products that are ten percent strength and higher). “These can be irritating, especially for those with sensitive skin, and studies show that higher concentrations are not necessarily more effective,” she explains. “Be aware that benzoyl peroxide can bleach your towels and any fabric it touches, so be sure to rinse off thoroughly or wear something you don’t mind getting stained.”
