Small red bumps on inner thigh

Hi there. I wanted to see what these small red bumps that recently appeared on my inner thigh might be. I first noticed these bumps a few days ago. They're small, red, zit sorta looking bumps near my scrotum on my right inner thigh. There's only 8 or 9 of them and they're not in clusters (more spread out around the thigh) and do not burn or itch at any point. Originally, i noticed two small skin colored zits on the right side of my shaft and assumed they were zits and tried to pop them. They did not pop like normal zits, however now they are now a bit red and irritated which I assume came from me picking at them. These also do not burn or itch at all. Shortly after, i started noticing little red bumps on my inner thigh on the same side that the "zits" appeared on my shaft. I'm assuming the two may be related given the right side of the shaft comes on contact with the right inner thigh. Anyways, I've been putting some neosporin on them and they seem to be very slowly going away, but also not spreading quickly if at all. I've been sexually active with one girl for about 4-5 months and am pretty sure I did not contract anything from her given she's had only 2 partners (obviously not impossible). Just not sure what exactly these are, I've done some brief research and think they may just be infected hair follicles, folliculitis, genetil psoriasis, or some other skin related infection, I'm just worried about whether or not it's a sign of genital herpes. Again there's no swelling or burning or itching sensations anywhere near these areas. The previous hair follicles or zits on the shaft that have now become a bit red due to my picking and popping are slowly disappearing. The rest of my body is also in good shape, i.e. no headaches, fevers, swollen lymphnodes or sore muscles. I'm certainly making plans to get checked professionally by my physician, just wanted a quick opinion/diagnosis. Thanks very much.

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum! Thank you for your post!

Based on your description, those follicular, erythematous (red) papulo-pustules (“zits”) sound like folliculitis.

Among other diagnoses, herpes simplex and fungal infection should be excluded first.

It is very good that you plan to see a physician.  

Wishing You Optimal Health,
Dr. Jasmina Jankicevic