Small bumps are the last thing that most people want to see on their skin. Having small bumps on your skin can cause you to feel self conscious about your appearance. They can also cause unpleasant sensations like itching or stinging. If you are concerned about small skin bumps, visit your doctor. He may be able to tell you what is causing your small bumps, what treatment to use and how you can prevent future occurrences.
Causes
Small bumps can form on your skin for a number of reasons. Some common causes are acne, heat rash, chickenpox and measles. Acne is a common skin disorder where small bumps called pimples form on your face. Acne breakouts occur when your pores become clogged by dirt, oil and bacteria. Heat rash is a skin disorder that occurs when your sweat ducts become clogged, causing sweat to accumulate beneath your skin. The resulting inflammation produces an outbreak of small, irritated skin bumps. Chickenpox and measles are two viral diseases that cause extremely itchy small bumps to form on your skin. These diseases can also cause accompanying symptoms like fever and fatigue.
Treatment
If you suffer from acne, over-the-counter acne creams that contain active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide are often effective in treating mild cases. Severe cases of acne may be relieved with a prescription-strength retinoic acid cream. Topical creams like calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream are often effective in relieving the discomfort associated with small bumps caused by heat rash, chickenpox and measles.
Prevention
Keeping your face clean can help prevent the formation of bumps associated with acne. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle facial cleanser to keep your skin free of dirt and oils. Heat rash occurs when your skin becomes overheated. To help prevent your skin from becoming overheated, wear clothes that allow your skin to breathe. You should also avoid wearing thick skin creams that can clog your sweat ducts. The best way to reduce your risk of getting chickenpox or measles is to get vaccinated.
Complications
While skin disorders and diseases like acne, heat rash, chickenpox and measles are typically not life-threatening, some complications can occur. In severe cases of acne, small bumps may develop into large, painful cysts or may permanently scar your skin. Sometimes the small bumps associated with heat rash become infected and cause the formation of painful blistering pustules. Chickenpox and measles may involve complications like skin infections, dehydration, ear infections, pneumonia and encephalitis in some individuals.
Time Frame
Acne breakouts can persist for days or even weeks. Acne most commonly occurs in teenagers but can also occur on and off throughout adulthood. A heat rash typically lasts between seven and 10 days. Chickenpox can linger anywhere between five and 10 days. Measles however, can last as long as two weeks.
