Red bump

[Jeets731]

Hi I was walking my dog and noticed a small pimple (at least it look a lot like one) on my right calve.  I popped it and now the area is red and feels like a bruise.  The next day above my knee on my left thigh i see a similar pimple-like thing and i decide to leave it alone and put some hydrogen peroxide on it.  Do you know what this could be? And if possible, how can i treat it?

[Jeets731]

Thanks! I'll try that.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can be folliculitis, contact dermatitis,rash due to friction rub with clothes or dermatitis (atopic, contact, allergic) Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin.

Folliculitis starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing or blockage of the follicle. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus (staph).

Pls keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful.In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed.Pls consult a dermatologist in that case.Also pls don’t pop it as it might get infected.

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