According to doctors at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, bumps on the buttocks may be due to an allergy caused by the chemical preservative methylisothiazolinone (MI), found in moistened flushable wipes. For some people, these wipes can cause allergic contact dermatitis, according to research, although this is more commonly found in a “wiping pattern” rather than on the buttock cheek itself.
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Treatment Options for Getting Rid of ‘Buttne’
Your treatment will depend on whether you have folliculitis, carbuncles, keratosis pilaris, or an allergy.
Here’s what to expect.
Folliculitis TreatmentMost of the time, folliculitis eruptions go away on their own. If not, a dermatologist can prescribe a combination of products to clear up your skin. “Often, ‘butt acne’ can be treated with a topicalantibioticcream or an antibacterial wash, such as one that contains benzoyl peroxide,” says MacKelfresh. Rarely, you might need an oral antibiotic or an antifungal medication.
“Look for cleansers that contain 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, an ingredient that lowers levels ofacne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation,” says Zeichner. “Let the cleanser lather on the skin while you sing the alphabet before rinsing off — this ensures enough contact time for the active ingredient to do its job.”
Carbuncle TreatmentBecause carbuncles go deeper, treatment is more intensive. You may be given an antibiotic (oral or topical) to fight the infection, according toMedlinePlus. Your healthcare provider may also need to lance, or pierce, the boil to drain the accumulated pus in a safe, sterile setting. The area will then be covered with a bandage. Never try to drain a carbuncle yourself.
Keratosis Pilaris TreatmentBecause the condition is painless, and often considered just a variation of normal skin, according to the Mayo Clinic, it can’t be prevented, though moisturizer may help if you’re dealing with dry patches. Ointments using salicylic acid or glycolic acid may also be effective, per the Mayo Clinic.
Allergy TreatmentHold off on using any moistened wipes for one month. If you only abstain for a week or two, you may not see your skin clear up, experts say.
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How to Help Prevent ‘Pimples’ From Popping Up on Your Buttocks
“You can prevent ‘butt acne’ by staying in good health overall,” says MacKelfresh. Try taking these precautions:
- Wear loose clothing whenever possible. Tight clothing, especially when combined with sweat, can cause skin irritation that leads to folliculitis. Be sure to change your clothes and take a shower after exercise. Also,the Mayo Clinicadvises using a fresh towel and washcloth each time you bathe.
- Work with your doctor to bring any chronic health conditions, such asdiabetes, under control. Chronic health issues can make it harder for your body to fight off infection.
- If you do get folliculitis, make sure you get it promptly under control to avoid carbuncles and the need for more aggressive treatment.
- Avoid moistened flushable wipes, especially those made with MI.
Additional reporting by Leslie Barrie.
