What should you know about dry red bumps on arms?

Keratosis Pilaris commonly creates many small, rough, dry bumps around hair follicles, especially on the upper arms. The skin may feel like sandpaper and can look pink or red, while the bumps are usually uniform rather than filled with pus. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious.

Folliculitis is inflammation around a hair follicle and may cause red or tender bumps, pustules, crusting, or itch. Shaving, sweating, friction, and occlusive clothing can contribute. These conditions can overlap in appearance, so a persistent, painful, or changing rash deserves an examination.

Use a mild cleanser, warm rather than hot water, and a moisturiser after bathing. Avoid picking, harsh scrubbing, rough exfoliating gloves, and close shaving over the bumps. Loose clothing can reduce rubbing, while changing out of sweaty clothes may help if heat or friction is a trigger.

For rough follicular bumps, a clinician may suggest a moisturiser containing a suitable exfoliating ingredient, introduced gradually to avoid irritation. If bumps are painful, pus-filled, or linked to shaving, ask whether the care plan should address Folliculitis instead of treating the dryness alone.

Arrange a review if the bumps spread quickly, become painful, drain pus, form repeated crusts, leave marks, or fail to improve with gentle care. Seek prompt help for fever, rapidly expanding redness, severe tenderness, or red streaking from the affected area.

Ask whether the pattern fits Keratosis Pilaris or Folliculitis, which moisturiser or cleanser is appropriate, and how often to use any exfoliating product. Mention shaving, exercise, sweating, new detergents, and whether the bumps itch, hurt, or contain fluid.