RED BUMPS!

I need some help... Well I've been getting these red bumps on my chest and back that look kind of like pimples at first but when I touch them or try to pop them, they seem to just get irritated. They have no puss inside of them though and they leave horrible scars. How do I get rid of them and how do I get rid of the scars? They are red and look like pimples or ugly mosquitto bites. Please help!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be folliculitis, contact dermatitis,rash due to friction rub with clothes, dermatitis (atopic, contact, allergic)or excessive sweating causing sweat dermatitis.

Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin.

Folliculitis 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).

Pls keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing 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.In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed.Pls consult a dermatologist in that case.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing and if you have any additional queries.