What should you know about itchy little red bumps on arms?

Keratosis Pilaris causes many small, rough bumps centred around hair follicles, often on the outer upper arms. The skin may feel like sandpaper and can become more noticeable when dry. Folliculitis involves inflamed follicles and may produce red, tender, itchy bumps or small spots that resemble pimples.

Consider whether the bumps are rough and longstanding or appeared after shaving, sweating, tight clothing, friction, or a new product. Avoid assuming that every arm bump has the same cause; location, surface, tenderness, and change over time matter.

Use a gentle cleanser, moisturise regularly, and avoid harsh scrubbing, picking, and close shaving over irritated skin. Loose clothing can reduce friction. For persistent rough bumps, a clinician may suggest a carefully chosen lotion that softens built-up skin, while inflamed follicle bumps may need a different approach.

Do not squeeze bumps or apply strong acids to broken skin. Pause a suspected new cosmetic or body product and record whether the area settles.

Arrange a review if bumps are painful, spreading, repeatedly returning, draining, leaving marks, or not settling with gentle care. Seek prompt help for rapidly spreading redness, fever, or a tender swollen area.

Ask whether the bumps fit Keratosis Pilaris or Folliculitis, whether shaving or products are contributing, and which treatment is suitable for your skin's sensitivity.