Bumps on Chest

Hello, I have these pimple like bumps on my chest.  They are the same color as my skin.  I've tried to like pop them, but they don't pop very easily.  Sometimes they just wont.  When they do, however, it's like yellow string that comes out.  These are just bringing me down confidence wise.  Can anyone help?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
They can be infected hair follicle or sebaceous cysts. A sebaceous cyst is a closed sac occurring just under the skin which contains a "pasty" or "cheesy" looking substance called keratin. Blocked sebaceous glands, swollen hair follicles and excessive testosterone production will cause such cysts.

Generally no treatment is required but they become painful then it means they are infected, then surgical excision by traditional wide excision, minimal excision, and punch biopsy excision may be required.
I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep us posted on how you are doing.

[smudatherunner]

Are there any topical things I can use to get ride of them?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Apply warm compresses on the cysts and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful. But definitive treatment consists of surgical excision of the cyst only.
I hope it helps. Take care and regards.

[smudatherunner]

I came across this tool called the Derma-Roller, could this be used to get rid of these bumps?
  http://www.derma-rollers.com/

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Dermaroller is used for Stretch marks, wrinkles, scars and uneven, pitted skin. It is not used for bumps on the chest which could be due to sebaceous cysts. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.