Suffering From Spots On Your Bum? A Skin Expert Reveals The Little

In terms of skin complaints, ‘bum spots’ is pretty low down on the list of problems people are willing to confess to – but according to one skincare expert it’s ‘far common than you might think.’

Shireen Forster, founder of Laser Me Out clinics, says that these unsightly red bumps on the buttocks are widespread, and often people are too embarrassed about the issue to do anything about it, least of all see a doctor or dermatologist.

So, what causes spotty buttocks?

‘Many people assume that spots on the bum are acne, but the buttocks actually have very few oil glands. The bumps are usually caused by folliculitis, keratosis pilaris or irritation from heat and friction. Understanding which condition you’re dealing with is important because the treatment approach differs considerably,’ says Forster.

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Keratosis Pilaris

According to Forster ‘Keratosis pilaris creates tiny rough plugs that feel dry and gritty rather than inflamed, giving a distinctly different texture and appearance.’

‘Keratosis pilaris, or KP, is a common, harmless skin condition that’s often described as “chicken skin,”’ explains London-based dermatologistDr Anjali Mahto.

‘It’s caused by the accumulation of keratin, a protein in the skin, which blocks hair follicles and results in small, rough, flesh-coloured or red bumps on the outer aspects of your upper arms, thighs or buttocks.’

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There’s no magic cure. ‘Treatments for keratosis pilaris focus on softening the keratin plugs and improving skin texture,’ says Dr Mahto. The most effective way to smooth those rough bumps is with regular, gentle exfoliation using products that contain active ingredients. She recommends topical creams formulated with lactic acid, urea or salicylic acid to help refine the skin’s surface and restore softness over time.

Folliculitis

‘Folliculitis occurs when hair follicles become inflamed, typically due to bacterial infection or irritation,’ says Forster. ‘The buttocks are a particularly vulnerable area because they remain covered and warm throughout the day, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. These bumps look like small red pustules centred around a hair, which is the key distinguishing feature.’

The environment of the buttock region exacerbates folliculitis. ‘Sweat, dead skin cells and dirt accumulate in this region, clogging the hair follicles and creating conditions ripe for bacterial growth,’ says Forster. ‘Tight clothing compounds this problem by creating friction against the skin and trapping moisture. I often see worsening cases after patients wear tight jeans or athletic wear without changing out of damp clothes after exercise, as this perpetuates the cycle of moisture and bacterial proliferation.’

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Who tends to suffer from bum spots the most and why?

Forster says the following people are likely to struggle with this condition.

• People with curly or coarse hair are particularly susceptible because their hair is likely to become ingrown or irritated as it grows back.
• Men tend to present frequently with buttock folliculitis than women, largely because they’re likely to have denser body hair and may be less inclined to seek treatment early.
• Athletes and active individuals also experience these issues commonly. The combination of tight athletic clothing, increased sweating and friction during exercise creates perfect conditions for folliculitis to develop.
• People who sit for prolonged periods, such as office workers or drivers, may also experience worsening symptoms due to constant pressure and heat in that area, which causes bacteria to thrive.
• Those with compromised immune systems or certain skin conditions like eczema are vulnerable to persistent folliculitis or clogged bumps.
• Additionally, people who regularly wax or shave this area sometimes develop folliculitis as a result of the hair removal process itself, particularly if the technique causes micro-trauma to the skin. For example, if the wax strip is too abrasive or a shaving razor is too dull, the irritation can trigger inflammation in the hair follicles.

What can you use to treat these spots?

If the thought of going to see a doctor about your spotty behind is just too mortifying, you’ll be pleased to know there are other solutions you can try. ‘There are several effective steps people can take at home before considering professional treatment, and establishing good habits can make a significant difference,’ says Forster.

‘The foundation is good hygiene and moisture management. I recommend showering immediately after exercise and changing out of sweaty or damp clothing promptly. Wearing loose, breathable fabrics rather than tight clothing allows the area to stay dry and reduces friction, which addresses the primary drivers of folliculitis. These simple adjustments often provide noticeable improvement within the first week or two,’ she says.

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‘When it comes to topical treatments, benzoyl peroxide is an excellent antimicrobial ingredient that helps kill bacteria and has anti-inflammatory properties. For mild cases, starting with a lower concentration is sensible. Salicylic acid can also be helpful for mild folliculitis, as it penetrates the follicle and unclogs the pore that may be contributing to spots.

‘I always advise patients to avoid picking or squeezing spots, as this introduces bacteria and can worsen the condition. Instead, applying a warm compress to the area can help soothe discomfort and encourage natural drainage if needed.’

‘Laser hair removal can really help with bum spots, and many clients come into clinic with this concern as well. Because you’re always sitting on your bum, the hair tends to get trapped as they’re coming out of the follicle. Even though the signs may be showing its acne, it could also be ingrown hairs and laser hair removal is extremely effective for treating this.’

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As for when you should seek medical help, Forster says ‘If spots are accompanied by significant pain, warmth, swelling or pus drainage, these signs can suggest a bacterial infection that may require antibiotics. Fever or swollen lymph nodes are red flags that warrant immediate medical attention, as they can suggest a systemic infection that extends beyond localised skin inflammation. Whilst most buttock spots are benign folliculitis, I always remind patients that persistent or unusual lesions should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out other conditions.’