Learn more about what causes skin discoloration on the buttocks and what you can do about it if you choose to.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Skin tone is determined by a brown pigment called melanin that is made by the body. People with darker skin tones have more melanin; people with pale skin tones have less.
When the body produces excess melanin deposits, the skin in that area becomes darker than the skin around it. This is known as hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation is common and usually harmless.
Common causes of hyperpigmentation include:
Sun Spots
Also called age spots or liver spotsSmall, darkened patchesFound on the face, hands, and other areas commonly exposed to the sunCaused by sun damage
Melasma
Also called chloasma Usually occurs on the face, and so is more likely to be treated More common in people with female hormones More common in people with darker skin types Associated with hormonal changes such as with pregnancy or birth control medication
Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Dark spots or patches left after inflammation or injury such as acne Can occur anywhere on the body More common in people with darker skin tones
Less commonly, hyperpigmentation can be due to more serious conditions such as:
Addison’s disease (a hormonal disorder) Skin conditions such as psoriasis Vitamin deficiencies
Hyperpigmentation of the buttocks is usually not something to be concerned about. Unless there is an underlying health condition, treatment is not needed. Some people with hyperpigmentation choose to seek treatment if they are bothered by it.
What Causes Skin Discoloration Between Buttocks?
Is it normal to have a dark “butt crack”? The short answer is yes. Skin is not a uniform tone all over the body. It is common for some areas—such as the butt crack—to be darker than other areas.
If the dark spots show any warning signs of skin cancer, such as irregular borders or raised spots, have them checked.
Discoloration around the buttocks area can be caused by a number of factors but is usually harmless.
A common cause of hyperpigmentation in the buttocks area is irritation or inflammation. Trauma or irritation to the skin can cause postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and create dark spots or areas on the butt cheeks or between the buttocks.
This is commonly caused by:
Folliculitis (butt “acne”): Infection of the hair follicles resembling acneFriction: Rubbing from clothing, or skin against skinIrritation from products or procedures: Products used on the skin such as some cleansers, or skin treatments or procedures, can irritate the skin and lead to hyperpigmentation.
To help reduce irritation:
Wear loose-fitting clothing. Change and wash clothing after use, particularly swimsuits. Practice good hygiene. Use well-maintained hot tubs or avoid hot tubs (a common cause of folliculitis). Use gentle products that don’t irritate the skin. Use sunscreen on areas exposed to the sun.
Other factors that can contribute to hyperpigmentation include:
Hormones (pregnancy, hormone medications such as birth control, or other hormonal factors)HeredityCertain medications
Treatments for Hyperpigmentation
Treatment for hyperpigmentation is rarely necessary. It is common to have darker skin in the buttocks and public areas.
Dark spots caused by factors such as cleared folliculitis or other underlying factors that are no longer at play can often go away on their own with time.
Spots that are a few shades darker than the natural skin color generally fade in six to 12 months. Discoloration that is deep within the skin or much darker may take years to fade on its own.
Options are available for people who want to try to even out pigmentation for cosmetic purposes.
Skin Products That Fade or Even Out Hyperpigmentation
Look for an over-the-counter skin-lightening product that contains one of the following ingredients:
Azelaic acidGlycolic acidKojic acidRetinoid (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene gel, or tazarotene)Vitamin C
It’s important to consult your healthcare provider before trying anything on this sensitive area. Discontinue the use of products if there’s any burning or other side effects.
Prescription Skin Lighteners
Hydroquinone, the active ingredient in most prescription skin-lightening creams, reduces melanin production.
This medication should be used short-term, as there are risks associated with long-term use.
Cosmetic Procedures
Laser treatment: Removes layers of skin using focused light energy Chemical peel: Removes top layer of skin using a treatment containing the chemicals salicylic acid and/or glycolic acid Microdermabrasion: Removes cells from skin surface using either a machine that sprays fine crystals through a wand that rubs against the skin or the abrasive end of a wand Cryosurgery: Liquid nitrogen solution freezes, destroys extra pigment
Home Remedies for Hyperpigmentation on Buttocks
More research is needed, but research suggests some natural treatments show promise in the treatment of hyperpigmentation, including:
Before beginning any treatment for hyperpigmentation, discuss all your options and the pros and cons of each with your healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Green tea Mulberry Licorice extract Vitamin C Soy extract
A Word From Verywell
Hyperpigmentation in the buttocks area is common and usually harmless. While treatments are available, they can be timely and costly and have side effects.
Home remedies for hyperpigmentation can sometimes worsen the discoloration or cause other unwanted or hazardous effects.
Don’t try to treat hyperpigmentation at home without first speaking to your healthcare provider or dermatologist.
If you are bothered by the look of hyperpigmentation, speak with your healthcare provider or dermatologist about the benefits and risks of the available treatment options.
Some home remedies can cause more harm than good. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any treatment to lighten skin.
How long it takes for any treatment for hyperpigmentation to show results depends on several factors such as where the pigment deposits are in the skin and how dark the spots are compared to the natural skin color.
