Rashes can appear anywhere on the body, including the butt. Rashes can be painful or itchy and lead to blisters and raw skin, in some cases. Most people associate butt rashes with babies and toddlers, but people of all ages, including adults, can get butt rashes.
Many things from a heat rash to allergies and sexually transmitted infections can cause butt rashes.
Some rashes may respond well to home remedies while others may need medical attention.
Causes of butt rashes in adults
Adults may experience butt rashes caused by any of the following:
- Heat rash: This itchy, red rash often appears as blisters or red bumps during hot weather.
- Ringworm: More commonly known as jock itch, ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a red, ring-shaped rash in the groin and butt area. The rash is often very itchy.
- Contact dermatitis: This itchy rash is inflammation of the skin caused by direct contact with an irritant.
- Atopic dermatitis: Also known as eczema, this causes dry skin that tends to be itchier at night.
- Psoriasis: This is a condition that causes skin cells to build up and form itchy dry patches or scales. Scientists think psoriasis is the result of an immune system problem.
Natural rash remedies include the following:
- Coconut oil: Applying coconut oil to areas of atopic dermatitis reduces symptoms and irritation, studies show.
- Oatmeal: Applying an oatmeal paste or soaking in an oatmeal bath may help dry up a rash and relieve the itching.
- Witch hazel: Witch hazel is effective in treating rashes on the buttocks and genital area, according to research published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery.
- Honey: Rubbing honey on a rash may help clear it up. Honey has antimicrobial properties that may promote skin healing and tissue repair.
- Chamomile tea compresses: Using compresses soaked in chamomile tea on a rash may help ease the discomfort.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agents that can help soothe damaged skin when rubbed on. It also provides a cooling sensation that may help ease the pain and sting of a painful butt rash.
- Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that make it a popular topical treatment for skin ailments.
Over-the-counter (OTC) products that may be helpful for rash treatment include:
- gentle, fragrance- and oil-free moisturizers
- oral antihistamines if the rash is caused by an allergic reaction
- topical hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching
- anti-inflammatory oral medications, such as ibuprofen, to relieve pain and swelling
- antifungal creams and sprays