Spots on your bum bothering you? Here’s 7 ways to nix them

Perdita Nouril

10 September 2024 at 7:30 am·7-min read

Bum spots. Sure, it's super annoying when you get blemishes on your behind but they do happen. And given that you might be working from home more now (and therefore spending all day working in the very same gym kit you used to smash out a quick HIIT session at lunch) they might be appearing on your rear more than ever.

As with everything aesthetic, if you DGAF about bum spots, then there's zero need to embark on a nixing spree.

But if you've ever googled 'why do I get spots on my bum' and they're playing with your confidence? Then scroll on for how to vanquish the pests for good.

What are bum spots?

Unsurprisingly, these bad boys are exactly what they say on the tin. Spots on your bum. But, in contrast to spots on your face, bum spots tend to form more of a bumpy rash patch that can last for days – and then some.

Can spots on bum be hormonal?

Although spots and pimples on your bum are annoying the good news is, they're generally not acne.

Why? Because, the pimples that appear on your rear are commonly caused by inflamed hair follicles, which is called folliculitis, or carbuncles which are a cluster of boils. Acne cysts are normally deeper under the skin than spots on your bum.

Bum spots are therefore not the result of hormones.

Is it normal to get spots in your bum crack?

100 percent. Spots affecting the buttocks are quite common and usually caused by a skin condition known as folliculitis,' says Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist and founder of The Self Clinic.

So, why am I getting spots on my bum?

There are lots of reasons why folliculitis can occurr.

'Irritation, infection (by bacteria, yeast or fungus) or blockage of the hair follicles. It often it appears as a bumpy rash on the skin,' says Dr Mahto.
It can actually occur anywhere where you have hair – but, chances are, you’ll be less quick to discuss it when it results in bum spots.
And, although the skin on your bum and your face are pretty similar, most people’s behinds tend to be hairier (no one’s judging) and concealed on a daily basis by synthetic fabrics.
'I’m seeing a lot of this in clinic right now due to the trend for athleisure and people spending a lot of fo time in gym leggings. Heat, sweat and occlusion with lycra all contribute,' adds Dr Mahto.

So yes, although working up a sweat is all good for your health gains; that trapped sweat and seated pressure is less helpful for avoiding bum spots.

Does Sudocrem get rid of spotty bum cheeks?

Sudocrem can be helpful in some cases as it is antiseptic and can help keep the skin clean and free of microbes which may drive the problem.

How to get rid of a spotty bum

1/ Take a shower after exercise

'This is the best way to avoid them' advises Dr Mahto. As it keep your follicles clear and prevents bacteria build-up. Also jump in the during in you've been enjoying particularly hot and sticky weather.

2/ Reach for specific skincare ingredients

Help to reduce the appearance of bum spots by applying a topical acne treatment – so one containing salicylic acid – and using an antiseptic wash to wipe out any lingering bacteria.

'Using cleansers, pre-soaked pads or toners with salicylic acid ore benzoyl peroxide to wipe over the affected area on cleansed skin may also be of benefit,' reveals Dr Mahto.

Don't be tempted to scrub away at existing spots – as with shaving it will only aggravate bum spots and make them look and feel worse. Instead, be patient; like normal spots, bum spots should clear up on their own.

3/ Do not share towels

Kinda obvious this one, but if your partner's towel is closer to you once you hop out the shower don't even think about reaching for it. The last thing your bum spots need are a dose of your other half's bacteria. Ew.

4/ Switch clothing

During a breakout opt for loose, breathable fabrics as this will give your bum a break from tight clothing.

5/ Put the razor down

'Do not shave over the affected areas as this may cause further irritation,' reveals Dr Mahto

6/ Know when to see a GP

'If the problem gets worse it is worthwhile speaking to a GP or dermatologist for prescription creams or a course of antibiotics which may help' advises Dr Mahto.

7/ Look into hair removal

Because spots on bum are generally caused by congestion in your hair follicles, then the hairier you are, the more likely is it that you'll be prone to spots. While razors can make the issue worse, hair removal in the form of laser treatment might be worth looking in to.

How to stop bum spots from coming back

1/ Let you bum breathe

The best thing you can do to avoid future spots, is to let your bottom breathe, which sounds weird, we know. However, given that most us spend our time sat down on our behinds, then it stands to reason that you'd want to get let some air get it. Set yourself an alarm so that you move around regulary at work, go for walks on your lunch break and try to wear breathable clothing too or cotton underwear.

2/ Keep skincare light

Remember to keep up with clarifying body washes and lotions once your breakout has stopped and step away from heavy and occlusive body butters or oils as they can clog pores, which may help to speed up the return of the pesky boils.

The best products for bum spots 2024

1/ The Body Shop Tea Tree Clearing Wash

These super-convenient body wipes are pre-soaked in a glycolic acid solution to gently exfoliate without abrasion. Use the lightly textured side to sweep away dead skin cells and debris, then swipe the smooth side to renew and hydrate.

2/ Alpha-H Liquid Gold Luxe Resurfacing Cloths

With a 360 degree spray nozzle, you don't need to be a contortionist to use this clever blemish-busting spray. Formulated with salicylic acid alongside antiseptic lemongrass, it's a real secret weapon against bum spots.

3/ PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash 10% Benzoyl Peroxide

This contains the highest amount of BP you can find in a product without a prescription. The foamy formula wages war on bum spots to clear out bacteria and reduce the infected area.

4/ Malin & Goetz Salicylic Gel

The clear soothing gel contains lactic acid, natural witch hazel and salicylic acid to quickly treat the affected area and help buff away those pesky spots. Worried about dryness? Don't be. Panthenol and a dose of antioxidant vitamins ensure skin stays hydrated.

5/ Carbon Theory Charcoal & Tea Tree Cleansing Bar

Perfect for use in the shower, this cleansing bar is enriched with organic activated charcoal to help draw out bacteria and excess oil, tea tree oil to help reduce inflammation and shea butter to help keep the skin nourished and hydrated. Win win.

6/ ZitStika GOO GETTER Body Clarifying Blemish Patches

You're most likely aquainted with ZitStika's clever face patches, but did you know they've created a bigger version to cover certain body parts? Infused with derm-backed ingredients such as niacinamide, salicylic acid and vitamin C, they draw out moisture and grime from the skin so that your butt will look smooth and clear in no time at all.

7/ Paula's Choice 2% BHA Body Spot Exfoliant - Travel size

Pefect for slinging in your gym bag, this mini-sized, spot-blasting hero contains a high dose of salicyclic acid to keep skin in check.

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