Because the pubic area is normally under cover, it gets minimal aeration. A mix of sweat and dirt sticks around, leading to pimples and acne. This is usually not serious. By incorporating simple personal hygiene practices, you can get rid of pimples down there and prevent them from recurring. However, pimples on the pubic area may also result from a medical condition; see a doctor if home remedies do not work.

Pimples on Pubic Area: Causes and Treatments

1.   Razor

Skin pimples on the pubic area may be caused by a razor. After shaving, some hairs may grow back towards the skin and into the hair follicles, causing skin bumps.

Treatment includes applying hot compress on the bump area for 5 to 10 minutes. You may also use hydrocortisone cream which soothes skin and reduces the irritation and redness. Application of an antibiotic ointment or cream reduces your risk of infection in the affected area.

2.   Folliculitis

This occurs when hair follicles are infected or inflamed, leading to skin pimples. Causes include injury to skin, excess sweating and tight clothes. Pus may form, and tenderness and pain may occur.

Treatment includes washing with antibacterial soap and applying a topical antibiotic cream.

3.   Jock Itch

Jock itch affects the groin region. It is caused by a fungus and is a common problem in men who spend lots of time in tight jeans and share clothes. The risk of getting jock itch is higher among athletes, the overweight and diabetics. Symptoms include itching, and red patches with scaly borders within the groin, excluding the genitals.

Treatment includes application of a topical antifungal cream and wearing loose, cotton clothing.

4.   Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition whose symptoms include itching and red skin patches that begin as a rash and develop into blisters. Scaling and skin dryness may also occur. The condition is non-contagious and symptoms may be intermittent. While eczema can occur in any part of the body, it is more likely to affect areas with skin folds such as hands, behind of the knees and the front of the elbows. Eczema on the pubic area is also possible. It is more common in young children than adults. 

Eczema is not a serious problem and it can be managed with home remedies. Treatment includes applying topical steroids and moisturizers for relief of skin itch.

5.   Allergic Contact Dermatitis

As a result of localized hypersensitivity reaction, allergic contact dermatitis occurs upon exposure to some chemicals in clothes, skin care products or jewelry. It presents with a rash or pink to red pimples. These may change to blisters. 

The condition is non-contagious and usually improves after discontinuation of contact with the cause of the allergy. Treatment includes antihistamines and steroids to reduce inflammation and itching.

6.   Scabies

Scabies is an infectious condition that may cause pimples on pubic area. It occurs when mites burrow into skin, causing pimples or bug bites. A scab may also appear. It is difficult to see the tiny, scaly burrow. Intense itching which is worse at night may lead to scratching, opening the skin to bacterial infections.

Treatment includes medicated creams and lotions such as precipitated sulfur, crotamiton 10% cream and permethrin 5% cream.

7.   Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious condition whose signs include thickened, scaly, red skin patches. The condition usually runs in families, but its triggers include infection, skin injury, some medications and emotional stress. Psoriasis usually affects elbows, knees, buttocks, back, scalp and the pubic area. No known cure of psoriasis exists. Treatment includes application of hydrocortisone cream, salicylic acid products and skin moisturizers.

8.   Molluscum Contagiosum

This is a common skin condition with signs of tiny, dome-shaped, and painless bumps. It results from a viral infection that spreads through sexual intercourse or towels and clothes sharing with an infected person. Poor hygiene and a warm, moist climate increase risk of infection. If affected, avoid scratching to prevent spreading the infection.

Treatment is only required for severe molluscum contagiosum, and includes a prescription cream containing imiquimod or tretinoin.

9.   Sexually Transmitted Infections

Some pimples on the pubic area, groin or genitals may be symptoms of STIs such as genital herpes, genital warts or pubic lice. The pimples, sores and bumps may be the first signs of a STI. If you notice them in your pubic area, avoid sexual contact until you consult a doctor for evaluation. STIs may also present with penile or vaginal discharge, fever, muscle ache and pain. 

Treatment of bacterial STIs is the easiest, and while viral STIs can be managed, they are not usually cured. Treatment involves antibiotics or antiviral medications. In case of STI in pregnancy, seek immediate treatment to prevent or lower the risk of infecting your unborn baby. 

Natural Remedies to Remove Pimples on Pubic Area

The previous are the common conditions that may cause pimples on the pubic area; consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Here are some effective home remedies that can help you gain relief.

• Wash the pubic area with warm water and antibacterial soap. Don’t use cosmetic soaps as these may contain dangerous chemicals that can worsen the skin condition. Rinse the soap completely to avoid skin irritation.
• Use a loofah or body scrub to clean off dead skin cells. This will unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
• Apply acne treatment cream containing benzoyl peroxide. This will help to remove excess oil, clear off pimples and prevent development of new pimples.

• Make a baking soda paste by mixing 4 tablespoons baking soda with 2 tablespoons water. Apply to the pubic area and leave it on for up to 10 minutes before washing off. 
• Take off your sweaty clothes after a workout and take a shower, cleaning the pubic area thoroughly to reduce your chances of developing pimples. Keep your pubic area dry by blow drying two or three times daily.
• Shower every day to remove sweat and bacteria from your skin and prevent development of pimples on pubic area.
• Opt for cotton underwear in place of synthetic materials. Cotton is breathable and allows for easier air exchange, reducing trapping of moisture and preventing development of pimples on the pubic area.