Somewhat rough dots on arms

[ohhai]

I'm not exactly what I have going on but I figured I'd get the problem out there.

Probably about six-eight months ago I began to develop red dots on my upper arms. I originally thought it might be acne but over time I have decided that it almost certainly is not. A quick search on the site led me to this page: http://www.medhelp.org/Medical-Dictionary/Terms/2/1920.htm

I'm not sure if what I have is the same thing or not, but the image looks very similar to what I have. Min is considerably less pronounced, however. To the touch my skin feels like it is sporadically littered with small dry bumps. It is not painful, just unsightly. Occasionally the bumps will develop a small hard white part in the center. I assume this is just dry skin but am obviously apprehensive to put apply any kind of abrasive in fear of spreading the condition.

Any help would be fantastic, not exactly sure what to do.  As this is a recent occurrence I hope there's a quick fix. Also if there's anything over-the-counter available that would be preferable. Don't really have the time to find and visit a dermatologist at the moment, but will if necessary.

Will post a photo if requested.

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
It si probably the same thing.Keratosis pilaris (KP, also follicular keratosis) is a very common genetic follicular condition that is manifested by the appearance of rough bumps on the skin and hence colloquially referred to as "chicken skin" as well as "meat bumps". It most often appears on the back and outer sides of the upper arms.
Keratosis pilaris occurs as excess keratin, a natural protein in the skin, accumulates within the hair follicles forming hard plugs (process known as hyperkeratinization). Bearing only cosmetic consequence, the condition most often appears as a proliferation of tiny hard bumps that are seldom sore or itchy. Though people with keratosis pilaris experience this condition year round, it’s during the colder months when moisture levels in the air are lower that the problem can become exacerbated and the “goose bumps” are apt to look and feel more pronounced in color and texture.
Many KP bumps contain an ingrown hair that has coiled.There is currently no known cure for keratosis pilaris; however, there are effective treatments available which make its symptoms less apparent. The condition often improves with age and can even disappear completely in adulthood, though some will show signs of keratosis pilaris for life.
Regardless, exfoliation, intensive moisturizing cremes, lac-hydrin, Retin A and medicated lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids or urea may be used to temporarily improve the appearance and texture of affected skin. Also, beta hydroxy acids can help improve the appearance and texture of the afflicted skin.
ref:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keratosis_pilaris
Hope this information helps you.