Most skin conditions that result in little bumps under your nose are harmless and may be more bothersome because of itching or appearance. Bumps that result from acne, rosacea, dermatitis or actinic keratosis, for example, may be chronic and require regular maintenance to prevent and treat, but usually do not have any further side effects. Other bumps, however, can be signs of more serious complications and may require medical attention.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic condition that usually begins after the age of 30, according to Rosacea.org. Flare-ups usually start with a slight redness on the face or under the nose. Bumps form eventually and can lead to a swollen nose, a condition called rhinophyma. There is no cure for rosacea, and the cause is unknown. Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics and topical ointments to treat breakouts. Triggers for the condition may include stress, sun exposure, alcohol consumption or severe weather.
Perioral Dermatitis
Young women are particularly prone to a condition called perioral dermatitis that causes small bumps to appear around the mouth and under the nose. The bumps and associated pus and scaling are often mistaken for acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. While the cause is unknown, perioral dermatitis may be a form of rosacea that eventually responds to treatment with oral antibiotics. Cosmetics and other skin care products, especially those that contain corticosteroids, may also contribute to the skin condition.
Other Conditions
Other conditions that commonly cause small bumps under the nose include acne that results from clogged pores, and allergic dermatitis that can result from contact with an irritant such as perfumed tissues or skin care products. Bug bites, hives and poison ivy can also cause small bumps to appear if you get bitten or rub your nose with a contaminated glove or handkerchief.
Warning
See a dermatologist if you are unsure about the origin of the bumps or if they appear suddenly. According to the Skin Sight website, for example, simple small bumps that occur as a result of excessive sun exposure may start out as actinic keratosis, and may remain small or moderate and not cause much discomfort. There is a high risk, however, of the bumps turning into skin cancer, so they may need to be removed and checked for malignant cells.
Prevention
Avoid products and conditions that trigger outbreaks of your particular bumps; wear sunscreen and reapply after blowing your nose or sweating; avoid touching your face as much as possible to prevent passing germs and bacteria to your face; keep your skin clean; and avoid scrubbing the sensitive skin under your nose.
