Good Looks

Surrendering your thong may protect against posterior pimples.

Polite conversation often excludes discussion one of summer’s most humbling skin-care woes. We’re talking about butt acne. Because uncomfortable things happen to good people who exercise regularly, sweat often, and shower with fabulous organic products, we offer a behind the scenes investigation on how this unsightly malady can happen anyway, and what to do about it.

The culprits
Summer temperatures
Non-wicking fabrics
Wearing thongs or going commando
Friction
Your bike seat
Perspiration left to dry on skin

The “cures”
1. Wash right after a work out with a mild salicylic-acid cleanser to help prevent your posterior pores from clogging and becoming inflamed. According to Alexis Granite, a dermatologist at Tribeca Skin Center, the tush is more sensitive than the face (who knew?), and a bout of buttne (that’s butt acne) yields best to a script for clindamycin.

2. Wear workout fabrics that wick—and granny panties, recommends Dr. Granite, who says these better buffer butt cheeks than thongs. “Another layer can help absorb sweat and protect the inflamed area.” (Even if it aggravates your case of visible panty line.)

3. Keep a pack of acne wipes in your bag if there’s any significant lag time between, say, yoga class and your shower. (We’ve tried Nelsons Pure&Clear Purifying Cleansing Wipes, about $7.95 at Whole Foods.)

Have you successfully treated a case of ass-ne? Tell us (anonymously, if you’d like)!