Why do i have bumpy skin

Healthy skin is a sign of good health and also tends to appear fresh and bright. The surface of the skin is normally smooth and continuous without any defects or bumps. There are areas of the skin that may have a different texture like the palms of the hand and the soles of the feet. However, in general, the skin is fairly uniform across the body.

Bumpy skin is a problem that is most often restricted to the appearance of the individuals. The term bumpy skin does not actually explain what type of bump exists on the skin. In general, bumpy skin may be a result of some genetic issue or may be a part of a bumpy skin rash. The differentiation between the two is usually based on the sensation felt on the skin. The bumpy skin is most commonly associated with an allergy. When the individual experiences no itch or irritation on the bumpy skin, it is considered to be harmless.

Bumpy skin on arms is often associated with a condition known as Keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris is a completely harmless condition. However, it does affect the appearance of the skin and is responsible for red bumpy skin. This is most commonly seen in individuals who have a lighter shade of skin. Keratosis pilaris can affect the confidence of an individual as he or she may perceive the red bumpy skin to be ugly, thus affecting the perception of appearance.

A bumpy skin rash is medically more important than any genetic imperfection in the skin. This is because allergies can worsen beyond skin based symptoms to cause havoc with the individual's health. A bumpy skin rash is often difficult to diagnose as well. In the case of many allergic reactions, the response of the skin occurs many minutes after contact has been made with the allergen. A bumpy skin rash may also occur as a result of some allergy that has occurred because of food being ingested. This becomes even more difficult to understand as food consumption may take place even hours before the bumpy skin presents itself. Over time, a process of logical elimination may be needed to figure out which food item is triggering the allergic reaction in the individual.

When analyzing bumpy skin, it is also important to note when the skin has turned bumpy. If this has happened suddenly or recently, it is best to visit a doctor for a checkup. However, if the skin has been bumpy throughout the life of the individual, then it is most likely to be something harmless. Furthermore, permanently bumpy skin would be noticed by a doctor at some point in the life of the individual.

The remedy for bumpy skin depends entirely on the cause of the condition. Some genetic conditions may not be correctable. However, most allergies will pass, returning the skin to normal. In some cases, the allergic reaction may damage the skin for a period of time. This means that it will take some time for the skin to heal. However, this happens when there are open scabs or when the rash is extremely strong. In most cases, allergic rashes tend to clear themselves, especially if the individual avoids contact or consumption of the substance that causes the rash.

answered by G R

Rough bumpy skin is most often the result of a very common condition called keratosis pilaris, also called by other names such as chicken skin, follicular keratosis or lichen pilaris.

Often, these small reddish bumps are seen on the upper outer arm and on the back, but it can also occur in other areas such as forearms, hands, palms, legs, thighs, soles of the feet and buttocks. Many a times it can also appear on the face but are often mistaken as acne.

It is very common in children, but it can occur even in teenagers and adults. These bumps usually seem to improve in summer but get worse when it gets cooler. Dry skin tends to worsen this condition.

Causes

The bumps on the skin are formed when keratin (key component forming the human skin’s outer layer) builds up. Keratin protects the skin from infections and unsafe elements, but when keratin buildups in the body, it blocks hair follicles by forming scaly plugs which causes rough and bumpy skin.

The reasons for keratin accumulation are not known but it usually develops in combination with other skin disorders like eczema, etc. However it can also occur in absolutely healthy people.

Symptoms of keratosis pilaris include:

Small bumps which look like acne
Painless bumps which may be a little inflamed and red, or they can be skin-colored
Rough and dry patches of skin
In some people, itchiness accompanies these small bumps

Treatment

Though it takes a long time, the bumpy skin resolves on its own. However, you can also use some medicated creams which may give you quicker results. Usually a combination of creams, self-care tips and home remedies can help soften and minimize the bumps. Tips include:

Do not irritate the skin by scrubbing it vigorously.
After a bath, instead of rubbing, pat dry with a towel. This helps retain some moisture in the skin.
Use a moisturizer while the skin is already moist after a shower.
Try over-the-counter products which contain lactic acid.
Retain moisture in your environment by using a humidifier.
Regularly rub pumice stone (gently, do not scrub) on the affected area.
Use loofah while in the shower.
Gently exfoliate skin with a combination of sour cream and granular sugar.
Before a shower, apply yogurt and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
Moisturize skin with rose hip seed oil or any other Vitamin E oil.

References:

answered by A S

Bumpy Skin:

It may be due to hormonal imbalance like in hypothyroidism.

After some types of eczemas or traumas to the skin it becomes bumpy.

There may be lymphatic glandular swellings due to various disorders leading to bumps on the skin.

Even some type of rashes or a massage that did not suit your skin type can cause bumpy skin.

answered by D M K

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