Bumps on your skin can appear for a number of reasons. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, bumps may be a symptom of allergies, eczema or hives. Often, bumps on the skin are caused by a condition known as keratosis pilaris, according to Medline Plus. Keratosis pilaris is a harmless, genetically-inherited condition that is common among people with very dry skin. You may notice small bumps around the hair follicles on your skin that resemble acne or small pimples. Although no known cure for this condition exists, medications and home remedies can often alleviate the symptoms.
Step 1
Consult a dermatologist. If you've had skin bumps for a while or you've just recently noticed their appearance, it's important to get the advice of a dermatologist to rule out specific medical conditions and to obtain advice about treatment. Certain prescription medications can treat or alleviate some of the symptoms of skin conditions that cause skin bumps.
Step 2
Moisturize your skin with a thick moisturizing cream containing salicylic acid or vitamin D, especially during dry weather and winter months. According to S.W. Lanigan and Zohra Zaidi in their book "Dermatology in Clinical Practice," conditions such as keratosis are generally treated with moisturizers to help add oil and hydration back to the skin. Apply a moisturizer right after you've finished bathing to help lock in moisture.
Step 3
Use a mild cleansing bar when you wash your body. Harsh deodorant bars contain chemicals that can strip oils from the skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Use a mild cleanser or bar soap containing moisturizer to help keep your skin soft and hydrated.
Step 4
Take a bath using a moisturizing bath oil. Bathing with bath oils can help to prevent dry skin by adding extra moisture and hydration. Bath oils leave a film of oil on your skin after you've finished bathing, which may help alleviate generalized conditions such as keratosis pilaris, according to Lanigan and Zaidi.
Step 5
Shave using a shaving cream or gel. Avoid shaving with only soap and water, as this can cause oil loss and dehydration, possibly exacerbating your symptoms. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should leave the shaving cream or gel on your skin for three minutes before you begin to shave to help soften the hairs and make shaving easier.
Things You'll Need
- Thick moisturizing cream
- Moisturizing bath oil
- Mild cleansing bar
- Shaving cream or gel
