Small bumps and itchy skin: what to know

Dry, cracked skin may fit asteatotic eczema, while recurring itchy patches in skin folds or areas prone to dryness may fit atopic dermatitis. A new soap, fragrance, hair product, metal, or fabric can trigger contact dermatitis where it touched the skin.

Scabies often causes intense itching, commonly worse at night, with small bumps that may appear between fingers, around wrists, or on the waist. A moist fold rash can be associated with a skin yeast infection. Thick, scaly areas may suggest psoriasis; shiny or flat-topped itchy bumps can occur with lichen planus. Raised, fleeting welts are characteristic of hives.

Use lukewarm water, a fragrance-free cleanser, and a plain moisturiser. Pause recently introduced skin, laundry, or hair products and avoid scratching, hot showers, and tight clothing. Keep nails short and use a cool compress for brief relief.

Do not squeeze, scrape, or apply steroid, antifungal, or insect-treatment products without checking that they fit the rash. Take a clear photograph and note where the bumps began, whether they spread, and whether anyone close to you is itchy.

Arrange a medical assessment if the rash is spreading, keeps returning, becomes painful, develops pus or crusting, or does not settle after removing a suspected irritant. Seek prompt care for fever, facial or eye involvement, or rapidly worsening redness.

Get emergency help for swelling of the lips or tongue, trouble breathing, faintness, or widespread blistering. These symptoms can signal a serious reaction and need urgent attention.

Could the distribution and surface of these bumps fit contact dermatitis, scabies, hives, or another condition? Do I need a skin scraping, swab, or prescription treatment? Which products should I stop, and how should I protect household members if an infestation is suspected?