what does this sound like?

My legs have red raised bumps mostly on my thighs, they often seem like I always have goosebumps or ingrown hair, but it never goes away. I don't have any where else as bad as my legs,but sometimes i get blotchy red on the upper back of my arms, but that goes through phases of unnoticable to rash like appearance. what does this sound like? cani treat it , any suggestions on treatment?  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough,but it sounds like keratosis pilaris. It is a common genetic follicular condition that is manifested by the appearance of rough bumps on the skin like goose bumps and hence colloquially referred to as "chicken skin".

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.
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.Kind regards.