Bumps on Skin and Keratosis: What Should You Know?

Keratosis Pilaris commonly feels like fine sandpaper and appears on the outer upper arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks. Bumps may be skin-coloured, pink or darker than nearby skin, and itch is not required. They form when keratin plugs the openings of hair follicles. Dry weather and rubbing can make the texture more noticeable.

Bright redness, warmth, pus, marked tenderness or a sudden crop of lesions is less typical and may point toward Folliculitis, Heat Rash or another inflammatory problem. A firm white facial bump may be Milia instead. Diagnosis is usually based on the skin pattern, not on a single bump.

Apply a plain moisturiser regularly, especially after bathing. Products containing urea, lactic acid or salicylic acid may soften plugs for some people, but introduce one product at a time and stop if burning or worsening redness occurs. Use gentle washing, avoid rough mitts and do not squeeze the bumps. Improvement is gradual and maintenance may be needed because the follicular tendency can return.

Arrange a dermatology review if bumps are painful, draining, rapidly spreading, strongly itchy, bleeding, or leaving scars, or if the appearance is new and unlike your usual texture. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, fever with rapidly expanding redness or severe skin pain. A clinician can separate keratosis pilaris from infection, eczema or a lesion needing another approach.

Does this look like keratosis pilaris or folliculitis? Which moisturiser or exfoliating ingredient suits my skin? How should I manage dark marks or irritation if they develop?