bumps on arm

i have really tiny bumps on both of my upper arms up to my shoulder. i have had these all of my life. they are tiny and they are red. if i rub my hand over my arm i can feel tons of them, but you cant really see them extremely noticeably. they dont itch or hurt, but they are just there and i dont like them. i am 15 years old and i hardly ever get acne. so they definetly are not zits, and it isnt a rash. does anybody no any creams or should i go to a dermatologist?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

This may be a case of keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition which involves the hair follicles. It is a harmless condition but may be discomforting to have. It may present with raised bumps on the skin which is rough and sand papery to the touch. The cause of which is not known and may be present in childhood. The condition may resolve as one grows older.

Have you had this assessed by a dermatologist before?

I suggest that you have this assessed.

Do you have any known allergies?

[Meg10]

thanks for replying. i have never been to a dermatologist before. i dont have any allergies. the bumps are always there they never go away and then come back. are there any over the counter creams i can put on my arm to make it smoother?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Firstly, it is best to have this assessed by your physician just to ascertain the diagnosis of keratosis pilaris. For the meantime, we do not want to aggravate the condition by suggesting that you exfoliate since it may only worsen the condition in the event that this is not keratosis pilaris.

Moisturize with a light and intensive moisturizer .You may use Aveeno moisturizers or a vitamin E cream to intensively moisturize the area. Try to use a mild cloth to scrub the area gently and check for any improvement .Do not overdo the scrubbing as this may further irritate the skin.