Red spots on hands and feet: what to know

Marks on palms and soles may behave differently from spots on the backs of the hands or tops of the feet because skin thickness and exposure vary. Check whether they are flat or raised, scaly or smooth, tender or itchy, and whether blisters, peeling, cracks, or drainage are present. New footwear, sweating, detergents, friction, and shared surfaces can all be relevant. Pimple-like bumps around hairs may resemble [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), while facial flushing or facial bumps may point toward [Rosacea](/conditions/rosacea/).

Keep the affected skin clean and dry without vigorous rubbing. Use a bland moisturiser on dry areas, change out of damp socks, and choose breathable footwear while the cause is unclear. Avoid applying several medicated creams at once, especially steroid products without professional advice. Note recent illnesses, new medicines, swimming, walking, sports, and personal-care products. A clinician can decide whether examination or a skin test is useful.

Seek prompt medical advice when spots spread quickly, become hot or very painful, form blisters or open sores, produce pus, or occur with fever or feeling unwell. Get urgent help for purple or bruise-like marks that do not fade when pressed, severe swelling, breathing difficulty, or swelling of the lips or tongue. Children with a new widespread rash and fever should be assessed promptly.

Ask what the distribution suggests, whether your footwear or products could be contributing, whether you should avoid work or exercise temporarily, and what change would mean the rash needs urgent review. Bring photographs if the spots appear and fade.