dotty skin

I have always had these red dots on my skin, mainly on my arms and some on my bum as well. I had them since I was little but not sure what they are. i notice quite a few people have them as well. It also makes my skin not very smooth but instead quite rough sometimes; I am very self conscious of my arms as they make my arm red all over with dots. Does anyone know what they are? Thanks

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Your symptoms are suggestive of keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris occurs when the human body produces excess keratin, a natural protein in the skin. There is currently no known cure for keratosis pilaris, however, there are effective treatments available which make its symptoms less apparent. Treatment includes tretinoin or Triamcinolone cream or Adapalene, a retinoid medication. Exfoliation, intensive moisturizing creams, creams and lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids and urea may be used to temporarily improve the appearance and texture of affected skin.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted in case you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.

[DenMother84122]

Many thanks for this question from MedHelp Members.  Thank you, Dr. Kaur for your reply.  

I, too, have had these little bumps since infancy and never knew why.  All I've ever done is keep hydrated and use a good-quality lotion to try to keep the roughness under control.  I'm a red-head so all of the little red bumps blend in with all of the little freckles.  ;o)

Hugs. . . .DenMother