Red marks on my body.

I've had these very strange spot like bumps on my arms/hands for years now and I just cant figure out what they are, they don't itch or hurt at all. They vary in size, largest being the size of a small pimple but then I have smaller ones that the skin isn't raised from, just little red dots. They come and go over months to years but I've never understood what they are. At the moment I have a total of four on my right arm/hand and one on my left arm. When they do go and come back usually they come back in the same place. Just wondering does anyone else have these and if so, any idea what causes them? and why they last for such a long period of time?
Oh and if it makes a difference, i'm a 22 yr old female.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These small bumps can be due to folliculitis. 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. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

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 doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.