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Acne and I have a complex history. We go way back. Although I’m well past my teenage years, I still deal with angry bushels of zits during my time of the month, or if I incorporate too much dairy into my diet (thanks a lot, pizza).
While my skin issues aren’t nearly as bad as they were during my younger years, mainly because I’ve had time to learn what my skin does and does not tolerate, zits are still an occasional issue.
You’d think acne would just be a face problem, right? Wrong! Nowadays, the worst of my skin issues appears on my back, as well as my backside. Ugh. The struggle is real. Although this can seem embarrassing, believe me when I say it’s perfectly normal. Still, acne down there can lower the self-esteem of many.
But unlike facial acne, which is usually caused by factors like hormones and diet, pimples on your backside tend to be the result of inflammation or potential infections. This sounds intense, but don’t panic- it’s easily curable. Â
As such, here’s everything you can do to get rid of it. Â
Apply Witch Hazel
Witch hazel really lives up to its name, because there’s something seriously magical about it. It’s great for clearing up problem spots like a witchy spell applied to the skin. Wam, bam, alakazam! Your pimples are gone in no time. I personally prefer witch hazel to harsher cleansers, since the last thing you want to do is apply too many aggressive chemicals that’ll likely make you break out even more from inflammation. This one from Target by T.N. Dickinson is inexpensive and just as magical ($3.99).Â
Prioritize Looser Clothing
When your clothing is too tight, your skin won’t have room to breathe. This can be especially gruesome in humid climates, where sweat glands build up, resulting in acne down there. Not fun! In addition, if you’ve recently gained a bit of weight and your underwear is now smaller in size than before, you’ve likely found your culprit. The tightness of the fabric is a very common cause for blemishes down there, so purchasing panties that are more size-appropriate can fix the problem right up.Â
Replace Pads With Tampons
I personally found there to be a direct connection between my use of menstrual pads and acne down there. While I have always been a “pad girly” through and through (controversial, I know), it hasn’t been working out so well for me lately. Whenever I wear thick pads during my period, it causes inflammation and rashes. As such, I’ve converted to wearing tampons, like these L. Organic Cotton ones at Target. My skin has thanked me as a result. Â
Make Sure You’re Not Allergic To Your Laundry Detergent
Sometimes, acne on your butt can be the result of an allergic reaction to a certain product you’re frequently using. Make sure the laundry detergent that you’re cleaning your undies with is free of products that you’re allergic to, or that could lead to inflammation. Opt for a free and clear option, like this one by Arm & Hammer made especially for sensitive skin. Â
While acne down there can be a self-esteem killer for many, it’s nothing to worry about. By making these switches and incorporating these light cleansers, your skin will be cleared up in no time.   Â
