Ever get raised, red bumps on your upper arms that look like a rash? We spoke to New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross to find out exactly what these bumps are and how to get rid of them!
“The bumps that show up on the backs of the arms are a typical case of Keratosis Pilaris, commonly referred to as 'chicken skin,'" Dr. Gross explains. "This skin condition is commonly seen on the upper arms—but can also appear on other areas, such as your thighs or buttocks—and causes small bumps to form that have a rough, dry feeling. They're usually white in color but can sometimes appear red and are often mistaken as heat rash. Sweating and excess oil can often clog pores, so make sure you exfoliate your whole body in the shower after a workout. KP shouldn't itch or hurt, and aren't contagious."
And what causes these pesky bumps? "Keratosis Pilaris is caused by plugged pores in the hair follicles, which result in tiny bumps on the surface of the skin. They occur more often in winter, as there is less humidity in the air and the skin tends to dry out more quickly. The best way to treat them is with a combination of Alpha and Beta Hydroxy acids—found in peels and exfoliators—or intensive daily moisturization and the use of a humidifier at night," says Dr. Gross.
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Comments
Oct 14, 2012
Gina M.
So, what if it IS ridiculously itchy?! I have Celiac Disease as well, so is that a contributor? It's there all year and hurts SO much. :/
Mar 05, 2012
Jessica F.
I had this and I started using body wash with the beads in it when I get out the Sher I put thick body cream and it seams to help a lot :)
Sep 02, 2011
Lauren H.
I never knew what it was and this describes it perfectly! This helped so much and I'm definitely going to try the tips! :D
Aug 21, 2011
Monica V.
I've had this skin condition my whole life. I tried so many lotions and potions, exfoliated until my skin until it was red etc. and I have found that the BEST way to tackle this is with a lotion that has 10% Glycolic Acid in it. The Glycolic Acid works as an exfoliator without tearing up your skin like a loofa can do and works better than any washcloth. I apply it after the shower and I kid you not, an hour later my skin is as smooth as a baby! (First time users may not see results for about a week of daily use.) I got mine from a local Dermatologist (you can walk right in and purchase it, no prescription needed!) and a 6.7 oz pump bottle is $20. It lasts about 3-4 months for all over skin treatment. I know some salon & spa facilities carry lotions with Glycolic Acid in them but if I remember correctly, it'll cost you an arm, a leg & your first born. Last visit I purchased a cleanser with glycolic acid in it and I didn't feel it was nearly as successful as the lotion alone was. I've also heard from a Gastroenterologist that this skin condition can also be a side effect from a Gluten Intolerance. I went gluten free for 6 wks and DID notice a difference in my skin, however, I can't confidently say that it was due to the diet change at this time. (I'm still experimenting with this theory.)
Aug 16, 2011
Krysten C.
I have something similar on my arms, its just my really dry skin but my Dr. told me to cut my salt intake and don't use soap except in the important areas or if I'm really dirty. It works really well for me. I didn't realize how much salt I really ate its in everything canned food, fast food even in drinks and soap its just crazy. We are only suppose to have 1000 micrograms of salt a day but if you add up how much you eat and drink in a day it would shock you As for soap It has always dried out my skin to the point of it feeling like my skin was tearing open so I never really use it unless I have to. I exfoliate a lot though. The one soap I have found that doesn't dry out my skin is from Aveeno and I'm in love with it works great still cant use it a lot but much better than many of the other products I've found.
Aug 16, 2011
Lisa V.
I have these on my arms and legs great article can't wait to try these tips.
Aug 16, 2011
Amanda L.
Thank you so much Beautylish for another great article on something I have issues with and needed advice <3 I've had these bumps on my upper arms for about a year now and haven't done much about them, tried exfoilating but that didn't help so I've left them alone. Can't wait to try these new suggestions out!
Aug 16, 2011
Meaghan M.
I have this year round though !!! Although, it definitely is worse in Winter...right now they're actually not that bad, they look like freckles because of my tan, but are definitely still there. My mom, my aunts, and I have all had it all our lives..so the pores on our arms have been plugged FOREVER ?!!! :( That's pretty upsetting..! I have tried all of those things and nothing has worked, only made them somewhat less visible. I've even seen a derm. 21 years later, I have grown to just accept them and forget they're there & not let them bother me anymore....at least they look liike freckles at this point.
Aug 16, 2011
Krystine M.
My mom and I both have this. Years ago, her doctor told her this was a permanent condition and common up in the great white north. His solution: move to sunnier climes.
Aug 16, 2011
Amanda W.
Aug 16, 2011
Meaghan M.
Aug 16, 2011
Meaghan M.
Aug 16, 2011
Roxanna S.
ugh! I've had this all my life and i hate them. I've tried everything (even after a biopsy) and prescription and nothing seems to work. It actually makes them a whole lot worse. The doctor told me they would go away but in fact they have gotten worse. The only thing that makes them look better is a nice tan. when I'm tanned you can't tell as much.
Aug 16, 2011
Meaghan M.