Bum Pimples, Be Gone: How to Deal With Butt Acne (Yes, It’s a Thing)
Let’s talk about a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough air time: butt acne. Yep, it’s real. And if you've ever sneakily googled “why do I have pimples on my butt?”, you're in very good company. It’s way more common than you think - and absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about.
So, what even is butt acne?
First things first: butt acne (or “buttne”, if you’re feeling fancy) isn’t the same as the stuff that shows up on your face. What you’re seeing back there is usually folliculitis - a fancy word for when your hair follicles get inflamed or infected. Instead of classic blackheads or deep cysts, you’ll usually notice small red bumps or whiteheads, especially where there’s friction, sweat, or a bacteria party brewing under your tights.
In other words, it’s not your fault. Your booty is just doing its best under some not-so-great conditions.
Why is it happening to me, though?
Ah, the million-dollar question. Here are a few common culprits that might be making your cheeks a little bumpy:
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Tight, non-breathable clothing (synthetic gym tights, we’re side-eyeing you). They trap sweat and bacteria, turning your peach into a pimple playground.
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Sweating and then sitting in it. Think: long walks, hot Pilates, or a spin class followed by hours in the same undies.
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Not showering fast enough after exercise. The longer the sweat sits, the more time bacteria have to thrive.
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Dead skin buildup. If you’re not exfoliating your body, those clogged follicles can’t breathe.
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Hormonal fluctuations. Yep, just like your face, your butt isn’t immune to the whims of your cycle.
Basically? Your booty wants to breathe.
So, how do I clear it up - and keep it that way?
Glad you asked. Here’s your foolproof bum-care routine:
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Shower as soon as you can after sweating. No lounging in post-gym gear. Sorry.
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Gently exfoliate once or twice a week. Use a soft scrub or a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid to clear out dead skin and excess oil (but don’t go too hard - your bum’s not built for sandpaper).
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Moisturise with non-comedogenic lotion. Hydration helps prevent irritation, but avoid anything heavy or greasy that can clog your pores.
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Swap to breathable underwear. Like our Vee bamboo ones. Seriously, your cheeks will thank you.
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Skip the synthetic tights when lounging. Loose, natural fibres = less friction, less sweat, and less butt drama.
When should I worry?
If those bumps start getting painful, swell up, or don’t budge no matter how much care you throw at them, it might be time to check in with a dermatologist. Sometimes, what looks like run-of-the-mill butt acne is actually a deeper skin condition or infection - like cysts, boils, or fungal stuff that needs medical treatment.
The bottom line?
Butt acne is super common, totally treatable, and nothing to feel weird about. With the right habits (and the right undies), you can keep your cheeks smooth, comfy, and confident. Because every part of your body deserves TLC—yes, even your bum.
