What could be the cause of red spots and raised bumps at my legs that were present since young (photo)?

Doctor's Answers 2

Hello!

From the photos, it appears that you have folliculitis, which is inflammation of the hair follicles, resulting in these discrete small red spots on your legs. Due to the limited resolution and extent of the photo, it is difficult to discern how extensive this condition is.

Some of the areas which are brown are healing, while the bright red areas represent active inflammation.

This condition can occur due to a few reasons.

1. Use of occlusive thick creams or moisturisers. Thick creams may irritate the hair follicles and lead to inflammation.

2. Hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing can lead to ingrown hairs and folliculitis.

3. Hot tub folliculitis caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas. This occurs after using hot tubs and heated pools in which the chlorine and pH levels are not well regulated.

You can minimise the occurrence of folliculitis by not shaving or waxing the affected area, and use light moisturisers if needed.

Do visit an experienced dermatologist for further assessment.

Take care and happy holidays!

Best regards,

Dr Ker Khor Jia

Sorry to hear that you are bothered by these spots since the age of 12. Apart from all the possible causes listed by Dr Ker, the other common diagnosis is keratosis pilaris, which is a common and harmless inheritable skin condition that is caused by the build up of skin around your hair follicles.

These are commonly seen on the upper arms and thighs. This skin condition is noticeable around pubertal age and will persist into adulthood. Occasionally it can be red and inflamed due to exercise or sweat. Hope this helps.

If you need further advice on this chronic skin condition, please see a dermatologist for diagnosis and management.

Hope this information is helpful to you.

Best wishes,

Dr Liew Hui Min

Dermatologist

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