[Acne] Butt Acne - My routine and what has been working for me
Long time lurker, first time poster. Have been dealing with booty acne and related scarring, bumps, etc pretty much my whole life. Put together a routine that so far has been working for me with noticeable difference. I am not a doctor or any sort of skincare professional, just sharing my routine as others have done.
About me: I'm a 36 year old tall girly and currently 205 lb, 280 was my highest. I do not have any skin conditions such as psoriasis, I do not have PCOS or endometriosis. I am not currently on any medication minus birth control (I have been on SSRIs which led to weight gain etc).
Products used:
- PanOxyl 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Foaming Wash (this was covered by my HSA)
- The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
- Dr. Bronner's - Pure-Castile Bar Soap
- Exfoliating Glove
- Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Body Lotion OR regular Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion
Daily routine:
- First off, when I shower my butt/thigh area I use a basic soap. No scents, no oils, no special additions, NADA. So initial wash is lather and clean as per usual using that soap. I save my cocoa butter soaps etc for my legs and arms.
- After the initial rinse, I do a mask of the PanOxl face wash on the area. You do not need a lot of product, less is more. Lather it on the area and let it sit like a mask (I do a minute or two). Rinse.
- Dry your skin with a towel, and let it air dry a bit after if possible.
- Apply Aveeno lotion. It is IMPORTANT to apply boring no scent no oil lotion to the area. Let it sit for a minute or two before putting on clothes.
Two to three times a week routine depending on your needs
- Exfoliate: to help with scarring and new trouble areas, exfoliation is important! And NOT WITH FANCY SCRUBS. I use a simple exfoliation love on the cheeks and use the soap suds or PanOxyl suds (depends on your skin sensitivity). I do NOT rub hard or for a long time. It's skin not sandpaper.
- Glycolic Acid: I used this to specifically help with dark scars. I would apply this BEFORE Aveeno, let it air dry for a few minutes, then the Aveeno. Do not apply on exfoliation days, or days you'll be tanning the peaches in the sun!
General tips:
- Wear cotton and breathable fabrics when you can! I wear my old lady cotton undies at home because it's better for my skin
- Save all the fun lotions, body washes, cocoa butters, body oils for your legs and arms! Your cheeks will thank you!
- BIGGEST TIP: Stop letting the shampoo and conditioner run down your back when you shower. Maybe this is only me, but washing out my conditioner was usually the last step in my routine, back against the water. Letting the conditioner product run down my back and butt was only adding to the problem. I was doing a whole skincare routine, but not realizing that "rinsing" the conditioner products off my back area was not enough.
I typed and formatted this on my laptop so I hope it's clear enough to be helpful! Also, if anyone has feedback or sees any errors or ways to step up my routine more, lmk