Small red bumps: common explanations and care

Rough, evenly spaced bumps on the upper arms or thighs can fit keratosis pilaris, a follicle plugging pattern that may feel like sandpaper. Tender bumps with pus or a central hair can fit folliculitis. Itch, pain, scaling, warmth, and a sudden change in number provide useful clues. The same color can occur in different conditions, so appearance alone cannot confirm a diagnosis. Take note of new soaps, shaving, exercise, heat, and clothing friction before the bumps began.

Use a mild cleanser and moisturiser, and keep showers comfortably warm rather than hot. Avoid scrubbing, picking, and squeezing. Choose breathable clothing and change after heavy sweating. If rough bumps recur, ask a clinician whether a gentle keratolytic moisturiser is appropriate for your skin; introduce products gradually because irritation can add redness. Do not share towels or razors when follicle inflammation is possible.

Contact a clinician promptly when bumps spread quickly, become hot or painful, drain pus, or occur with fever. Urgent care is appropriate for breathing difficulty, swelling of the lips or face, faintness, or a rapidly spreading rash. A routine review is sensible for bumps that persist, scar, bleed, or interfere with sleep or daily activities.

Do the bumps look more like folliculitis or keratosis pilaris? Which cleanser or moisturiser fits my skin? Should I change shaving or exercise habits? How long should I observe them before arranging a review?