Bum acne might sound embarrassing, however, it's actually pretty common.
The scientific term for bum acne is folliculitis and it isn't actually a form of acne.
It's typically down to irritation from rubbing or a minor infection of a follicule, which is what causes the uncomfortable red bumps.
However, there is a way to spot the difference between an actual infection and just some irritation.
Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinic research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York says that the way the spots feels is crucial.
Speaking to Allure, Zeichner said that the bumps are typically "shallow lumps, which tend to be itchy or painful."
Sound familiar? You should probably treat it to avoid further irritation.
Shereene Idriss, a dermatologist from New York also spoke to Allure about how to treat bum acne.
She said: "Washing regularly with benzoyl peroxide helps keep pesky bacteria at bay, decreasing your chances of developing a bacterial folliculitis".
While washing your bum is encouraged, scrubbing however, is not.
Scrubbing and exfoliating the area will make your bum feel smooth, but it can actually worsen inflammation if it's already there – it definitely won't calm the spots and instead anger them.
Waxing your bum is also an understandable no-no.
Although a popular procedure among women, it can lead to complications if you're already suffering from irritation in that area.
Sweaty spin classes will also worsen bum acne as it causes sweating and rubbing around that area.
However, if you can't give up your cycle classes – Idriss recommends you change out of your sweaty gym gear, have a shower, and wear something breathable soon afterwards.
So how do we prevent it in the first place?
Keeping your behind clean and dry if you're prone to sweat is always super important, and using gentle exfoliators also helps.
Salicylic acid and lactic acid exfoliators are the best kind.
And it's always important to see a GP if any problem persists.
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