Arm rash

Im 14 and i've had like these pimple things under my arms for years. i can still shave but i can't press hard. Nothing comes out of the pimple things but im really self concious and i dont wear strappy tops of anything
any idea what it is?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough,but it sounds like folliculitis. Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin.It starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing or blockage of the follicle. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus (staph).

Apply warm compresses and Neosporin ointment and avoid messing with it.You can take anti-inflammatory pain killers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.Application of calamine lotion will also help.If the lumps persists then it will be best to get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep us posted if you have any additional queries