Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsSymptomsCommon CausesUncommon CausesHome TreatmentDiagnosisPrevention
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Symptoms
Common Causes
Uncommon Causes
Home Treatment
Diagnosis
Prevention
You may be able to relieve itching or discomfort with over-the-counter (OTC) medications and home remedies. In some instances, you may need to see a healthcare provider like adermatologistfor a prescription medication.
What Butt Rash Looks Like
A pimply rash on the buttocks can describe different rash types and symptoms. The rash may look like tiny bumps or blisters, raised welts, open sores, or dry, crusty lesions. The sores may be limited to a certain area or widespread. They may be itchy, painful, hot, prickly, or cause no symptoms at all.
The characteristics of the rash or sore can provide clues as to the cause. They include:
How to Treat a Rash on Your Buttocks
The most common cause of a rash on the buttocks is skin irritation. But there are other causes like infections and abnormal immune reactions that can also cause butt sores and rashes.
Here are some of the more common causes of a butt rash or sore:
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitisoccurs when your skin comes in contact with a substance that irritates it and causes symptoms like skin discoloration (a change in skin tone, such as redness or darkening), itching, or burning.
Substances that can cause contact dermatitis include:
Contact dermatitis can also occur if you are allergic to a substance.This kind of skin irritation is calledallergic contact dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis usually causes intense itching, a red or discolored rash, and dry skin. You may also experience burning, stinging, hives, or blisters. Scratching often makes the symptoms worse.
The best way to heal a rash from contact dermatitis is to identify the irritant and avoid it. Home remedies, like a cool compress or oatmeal bath, may feel soothing and calm the skin discoloration and itching.
An OTChydrocortisone creamcould provide ease inflammation and itchiness, while an OTCantihistaminecan provide relief from allergic contact dermatitis.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See Photo
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonendermnetnz.org2023
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes inflammation in the skin. The most common symptom is a red or discolored, itchy, inflamed rash. It’s also possible to experience cracked skin that “weeps” clear liquid.
Experts believe genetic and environmental factors cause eczema. Healthcare providers usually recommend moisturizers or topical steroids for this type of rash.
Eczema is not contagious. If you tend to experiencehay feverorasthma, you may be at greater risk of developing an eczema rash.
Eczema is managed like contact dermatitis. Avoid any irritants and ease the pain and itching with cool compresses and hydrocortisone cream.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealand and © Dr. Richard Ashtonwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealand and © Dr. Richard Ashtonwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Yeast Infection
Ayeast infectionoccurs whenCandidagrows at an out-of-control rate and causes an infection.Candidais a type of fungus that usually lives on the skin and in the body without causing any issues. When it overgrows, it causes an infection calledcandidiasis.
Yeast thrives in warm, moist places like skin folds. It can cause a fungal infection between the buttocks or on other parts of your body such as the groin and inner thighs. In addition, the heat and moisture that can form around the anus make it an ideal environment for yeast overgrowth.
Studies suggest that an estimated 40% of cases ofanal pruritus (itching)can be attributed to a yeast infection.
Common yeast infection symptoms include skin discoloration and itching.
This infection can usually be managed with an OTCantifungal cream or ointment.Prescription topical and oral antifungals may be needed for severe infections.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZ and ©Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2022
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZ and ©Waikato District Health Boardwww.dermnetnz.org2022
Folliculitis (Butt Acne)
Folliculitis is a common skin infection that appears as pimple-like sores on the skin. If you have noticed acne on your butt that is not itchy, it could be folliculitis.
Folliculitis refers to an infection of thehair follicles. Once germs enter the follicle, an acne-like breakout occurs.
Acute folliculitis usually comes on quickly after the hair follicles have been damaged. If the skin is damp and hot, such as the skin around the anus, an infection can occur.
Possible causes include:
If you have recently developedacne on your butt, review the activities you did before it occurred. For example, spending time in a hot tub or biking on a hot day can damage hair follicles and encourage bacteria growth.
Most cases of folliculitis go away on their own. Even so, using a warm compress a few times per day could help provide some relief and allow the hair follicles to soften. Once folliculitis clears, avoid shaving that area for at least a month.
To help prevent folliculitis on the butt, avoid tight underwear and clothing, especially when it is hot and humid out. If you choose to shave the area, use a quality moisturizing shaving cream and shave with the grain to avoid damaging the hair follicles.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023
Ringworm
A fungal infection around the anus can cause both itching and pain.The rash is usually discolored or red and raised in the shape of a circle or ring.
It’s more common to experience ringworm in warm weather when sweat and moisture are more likely to get trapped in the skin folds. You can oftenmanage ringwormat home with OTC antifungal creams.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZ and ©Raimo Suhonenwww.dermnetnz.org2022
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZ and ©Raimo Suhonenwww.dermnetnz.org2022
Heat Rash
If your butt rash came on after spending the day outdoors in the heat and humidity, you might havemiliaria(heat rash).
Heat rash is common in the groin area and buttocks. It looks like clusters of bright red or discolored pimples or small blisters. Heat rash forms in areas of the body that can trap heat and moisture.
Heat rash usually resolves on its own. However, if you begin to experience other symptoms ofheat exhaustionlike muscle cramps, exhaustion, nausea, or dizziness, move to a cooler area to rest and rehydrate.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Genital Herpes
Herpes lesions can appear as blisters on the lower back or buttocks and around the anus. Blisters may also develop around the mouth or genitals. When the blisters break open, they leave painful, ulcerative sores.
Herpes is contagious, especially when someone has open blisters. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose herpes. While there is no cure for herpes, the condition can be managed withantiviral drugs.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2024.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2024.
Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, and you cannot see them. On the other hand, external hemorrhoids appear around the anus and may feel and look like a rash.
Hemorrhoids can cause intense itching and pain, discomfort, and bleeding. Remedies include:
Severe cases may need specialist treatments likerubber band ligationin which the hemorrhoid is tied off to reduce blood flow and shrink the swollen vessel.
Pilonidal Cyst
Apilonidalcystis a small, fluid-filled pocket that forms just above the cleft of the buttocks.
Sometimes there are no symptoms other than the lump itself. The cysts usually resolve on their own, but if you have one that is irritated or painful, see your healthcare provider. In such cases, the cyst can be drained after numbing the skin with alocal anesthetic.
Pinworm
Pinworm causes mild itching in and around the anus, and some people have no symptoms at all. However, when the worm lays eggs in the skin, it causes itching.
To diagnose pinworm, your healthcare provider may apply a piece of transparent tape to the anus. They will then examine the tape under a microscope for evidence of pinworm eggs.
As concerning as pinworm sounds, it is relatively easy to get rid of. Your healthcare provider will usually prescribe anti-parasitic drugs to kill the worm and prevent future infections.
Pinworm (Oxyuren) in the institute for parasitology of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich.Image Credit: /Getty Images
Psoriasis
Psoriasisis a chronic autoimmune condition that occurs when the body makes new skin cells too quickly. Rather than sloughing off like normal, old skin cells accumulate and form dry, itchy plaques on the skin. It is possible to experience psoriasis patches on the butt or groin area.
The most common type of psoriasis,plaquepsoriasis, presents as thick, raised patches of dry skin. The patches are usually itchy and get worse with scratching.
Healthcare providers usually recommend first trying a steroid ointment. Severe cases may require oral or injectedimmunosuppressantslike Cosentyx (secukinumab), Enbrel (etanercept), or Humira (adalimumab) that temper the overactive immune response.
While most cases of butt rash are common and clear up easily, others are a bit more complex. The less common causes require a visit to a healthcare provider and prescription medication.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilarisis sometimes referred to as “chicken skin.” It is a benign (harmless) skin condition that causes tiny, red or discolored bumps on the skin where plugs of dead skin cells form. They are usually dry and itchy. Keratosis pilaris is harmless and usually resolves on its own.
To manage keratosis pilaris, gently exfoliate your skin in the shower and then regularly apply a quality moisturizer to prevent dry skin. If self-care at home is not showing any results, see a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Creams containing alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid or urea help loosen and remove dead skin cells. Creams derived from vitamin A calledtopical retinoidscan help unblock blocked hair follicles.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Intertrigo
This condition may occur near the anus or between the buttocks and backs of the thighs, sometimes associated with incontinence in long-term care settings.Once the skin is irritated, asecondary skin infectioncan occur as bacteria enter breaks in the skin.
What you can use to ease intertrigo symptoms depends on the extent of the skin irritation and the type of infection you have. Many clear up with topical or oral antibiotics along with low-potency topical steroids.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Shingles
The herpes zoster virus causesshingles. It leads to a painful rash on one side of the body or face. Most people with shingles first notice pain, numbness, and tingling before the rash appears.
The shingles rash causes blisters that usually scab over in about seven to 10 days and clear up within four weeks. Other shingles symptoms include fever, headache, chills, and upset stomach.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZwww.dermnetnz.org2022
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet NZwww.dermnetnz.org2022
Lichen Sclerosus
Lichen sclerosusis a chronic condition that occurs most frequently in post-menopausal people.This rare disease causes thin, white skin patches around the genitals and anus. Other symptoms include discoloration or redness, itching, and pain. These patches of skin may tear or bleed.
Lichen sclerosus can also lead topainful sex, urinary retention, and constipation. If you develop symptoms of lichen sclerosus, see a healthcare provider. They will likely start topical steroids to reduce inflammation along with itching and pain.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.See PhotoReproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Dr Richard Ashtondermnetnz.org2024.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Dr Richard Ashtondermnetnz.org2024.
Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma
Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is a rare type of blood cancer that first appears as a rash on body areas that don’t get much sunlight. Diagnosing it can be tricky since the rash resembles eczema.
Depending on the stage of cancer, managing cutaneous T-cell lymphoma may involve topical retinoids, photodynamic therapy,chemotherapy,radiation therapy,immunotherapy, andtargeted therapy.
Home Remedies
The first step in caring for a rash at home is also the hardest: You need to stop scratching. Scratching further irritates the skin and causes the rash to become more intense.
To help soothe the itch:
You also can try anoatmeal bath, cool compresses, or remedies like tea tree oil or calamine lotion to relieve itching. Use a mild laundry detergent made for sensitive skin.
When to See a Healthcare ProviderYou can usually get rid of pimply butt rashes at home. However, contact a healthcare provider if your rash is not improving after a few weeks or if you develop rectal bleeding.Watch for these other signs that indicate it’s time to see a healthcare provider right away:The rash comes on suddenly and spreads quickly.The rash begins to blister and leaves open sores.The rash becomes painful.The rash has signs of infection, such as yellow or green pus, inflammation, crusting, or pain.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
You can usually get rid of pimply butt rashes at home. However, contact a healthcare provider if your rash is not improving after a few weeks or if you develop rectal bleeding.Watch for these other signs that indicate it’s time to see a healthcare provider right away:The rash comes on suddenly and spreads quickly.The rash begins to blister and leaves open sores.The rash becomes painful.The rash has signs of infection, such as yellow or green pus, inflammation, crusting, or pain.
You can usually get rid of pimply butt rashes at home. However, contact a healthcare provider if your rash is not improving after a few weeks or if you develop rectal bleeding.
Watch for these other signs that indicate it’s time to see a healthcare provider right away:
Your healthcare provider will examine the rash. If they cannot determine the cause, they may refer you to a dermatologist. Steps in the diagnosis may include:
Summary
Many causes of butt rash can be managed at home with self-care or over-the-counter medications. If your rash doesn’t respond to home care, see your healthcare provider. You may need prescription medication or specialist procedures to help clear the rash.
A Word From VerywellThere are many conditions that can cause a butt rash, most of which are benign. These can be treated at home with common sense care and OTC medications. Clean cotton underwear, good hygiene, fragrant-free soaps, and avoiding scratching are some of the sensible ways of taking care of the problem. As always, when home remedies fail or the symptoms worsen, do not delay getting advice from your healthcare provider.—WILLIAM TRUSWELL, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
A Word From Verywell
There are many conditions that can cause a butt rash, most of which are benign. These can be treated at home with common sense care and OTC medications. Clean cotton underwear, good hygiene, fragrant-free soaps, and avoiding scratching are some of the sensible ways of taking care of the problem. As always, when home remedies fail or the symptoms worsen, do not delay getting advice from your healthcare provider.—WILLIAM TRUSWELL, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
There are many conditions that can cause a butt rash, most of which are benign. These can be treated at home with common sense care and OTC medications. Clean cotton underwear, good hygiene, fragrant-free soaps, and avoiding scratching are some of the sensible ways of taking care of the problem. As always, when home remedies fail or the symptoms worsen, do not delay getting advice from your healthcare provider.
—WILLIAM TRUSWELL, MD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Heat stress - heat related illness.
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American Academy of Family Physicians.Pilonidal Cyst.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About pinworm infection.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How can I treat genital psoriasis?
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American Academy of Dermatology Association.Keratosis pilaris: diagnosis and treatment.
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American Academy of Dermatology Association.Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: Diagnosis & treatment.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Rash 101 in adults: when to seek medical treatment.
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