Let’s talk about the hole. Yes, that hole. If you’re planning on putting it to work, giving it some attention before the main event can make things more comfortable and help avoid irritation. The good news? Butt care doesn’t need to involve an elaborate 27-step beauty routine.
Out gay, board-certified urologist Dr. Joshua Gonzales has shared practical advice for keeping the area comfortable and cared for, and there are a few things worth knowing before you get your cheeks involved.
Exfoliate, but don’t get aggressive
Gonzales has recommended glycolic acid as part of an anal-care routine, but this is where a little caution matters. Glycolic acid is an exfoliating ingredient that helps loosen dead skin cells and can improve skin texture.
However, the anus is sensitive, and the delicate tissue inside the rectum is particularly vulnerable to irritation. So if you’re using a glycolic-acid product, think external skin only, use a gentle formulation and don’t apply it to broken or irritated skin.
And honestly, you don’t need to scrub your hole into submission. More exfoliation isn’t automatically better.
READ: Bottoms, Have You Heard of Hole-Tox (Anal Botox)?
Get yourself a good washcloth
Whether you’re smooth, hairy or somewhere happily in between, a washcloth or African net sponge can help clean and gently exfoliate the skin around your backside.
The operative word is gently.
Your butt does not need the treatment you give a dirty frying pan. Aggressive scrubbing can cause irritation and tiny breaks in the skin, which is precisely what you want to avoid before sexual activity.
Hydration is sexy
Glycerin is another ingredient Gonzales highlights for skin hydration. As a humectant, glycerin helps attract and retain water in the outer layers of skin, supporting the skin barrier. That matters because dry, irritated skin can be more susceptible to friction. And when you’re planning on penetration, friction is not your friend.
More importantly, remember that skin care cannot replace lubricant. The anus does not naturally produce the lubrication needed for comfortable penetration, so use plenty of appropriate lube. Adequate lubrication can help reduce friction and the chance of small tears.
About that douche
If you douche, keep it simple. Medical guidance generally favors plain water rather than soaps, fragrances, or other chemicals, and excessive douching can irritate or damage delicate rectal tissue.
Some people use plain saline solutions, while others use lukewarm filtered water. Whatever you choose, avoid harsh additives and don’t overdo it.
And no, you don’t need to pressure-wash your entire digestive system. A gentle rinse of the lower rectum is enough for those who choose to douche.
@joshuagonzalezmd 5 tips to get your 🍑🍩ready for eating Use glycolic acid around (not on) the anus to help with bumps, clogged pores, and dead skin. If you don’t shave or wax, use a washcloth or African net sponge regularly. Stick to fragrance-free glycerin soaps. Never douche with tap water, use saline solution or filtered lukewarm water instead. If you’ve had a full bowel movement, you’re probably cleaner than you think. #doc #sexualhealth #fyp
Feed the hole from the inside
Finally, don’t underestimate fiber. Oats, fruits, vegetables and psyllium can help support regular, comfortable bowel movements. Staying hydrated matters too.
Because ultimately, the best butt-care routine is one that keeps things comfortable before, during and after sex.
Your hole works hard. Treat the little superstar accordingly.