If you have small red neck bumps, you aren't alone. This skin issue affects many people. Bumps are embarrassing and may cause itchiness and discomfort. In most cases, these bumps aren't a cause for concern, though. Learning the cause of the bumps and consulting your doctor for an appropriate treatment will assist in clearing up small red bumps on the neck.
Skin Tags
Skin tags are small red bumps that occur on the neck. Friction is a common cause for these bumps. Approximately half the people in the United States experience skin tags by the age of 40, according to MayoClinic.com.
If skin tags are bothersome, your doctor can remove the bumps with surgical scissors. She can also remove bumps using liquid nitrogen to reduce the appearance. For both procedures, your doctor provides an anesthetic cream to minimize pain. Don't attempt to treat skin tags at home, recommends MayoClinic.org.
Contact Dermatitis
Anther common cause of red bumps on the neck is an allergic contact rash. Contact with strong soaps, skin-cleansing products or clothing causes this type of rash. Metals, such as nickel, also trigger small red bumps on the neck. Fragrances and exposure to plants, such as position oak or poison ivy, are also to blame for contact rashes.
Treatment for a contact rash involves taking a prescription oral corticosteroid or antihistamine medication. Your doctor can provide you with a prescription for these drugs.
Allergy Testing
If you believe a contact rash is to blame for red bumps on the neck, talk with your doctor about allergy testing. A doctor uses a patch test to determine which substance is causing your allergic reaction. Plan on wearing the patch for two days. If you develop a small red spot near the patch, you have found the allergen.
Considerations
Razor burn is to blame if small red bumps occur after shaving the neck area. Shave the skin using a shaving cream and warm water to avoid developing razor burn bumps. Shave in the direction of hair growth and avoid using old razors. If razor burn persists, contact your dermatologist.
Warnings
A doctor should examine small red skin bumps to rule out serious health concerns, such as cancer. Underlying health issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome or hormonal issues can also cause small red bumps. Although these health concerns are uncommon, it's wise to rule them out.
