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URLhttps://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms
Last Crawled2026-01-29 03:55:19 (2 months ago)
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Meta TitleBumps on Arms: Causes, Treatment, and More
Meta DescriptionThe most common cause of bumps on the arms is keratosis pilaris. Learn how to identify and treat it and other causes of arm bumps.
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Bumps on the arms often result from keratosis pilaris, commonly known as chicken skin. Other possible causes can range from inflammatory skin conditions to irritation, such as folliculitis. Arm bumps are usually harmless unless they gradually change or get larger over time. However, because of the wide range of possible causes, you shouldn’t self-diagnose bumps on your arms; instead, consult with a doctor, such as a dermatologist. Keep reading to learn the possible causes of arm bumps and how doctors treat them. Keratosis pilaris typically causes small, rough-feeling bumps. They may appear: red brown your skin color They tend to occur on the backs of your upper arms. They may also appear on your buttocks, the backs of your thighs , or elsewhere on your legs. Regular exfoliation can help, along with keeping your skin hydrated with lotion . While the bumps may feel dry and rough, keratosis pilaris usually isn’t itchy. Causes of keratosis pilaris Like acne , these bumps develop when dead skin cells get trapped in your pores. Some of the bumps may have pimple-like heads. However, keratosis pilaris bumps on the arms are often small and flat. Keratosis pilaris can be hereditary and may be difficult to prevent entirely. You may be more likely to get these bumps during dry times of the year. You may also have a higher risk of developing keratosis pilaris bumps if you have one or more of the following: eczema dry skin ichthyosis vulgaris , or dead skin cell buildup allergies and hay fever melanoma and are taking vemurafenib obesity Keratosis pilaris may occur more often in females, teens, and young adults, but research is mixed. Keratosis pilaris is a common cause of arm bumps, but it isn’t the only possible cause. It isn’t usually itchy, but some other types of arm bumps can be. If the bumps on your arms are itchy, consider the possible causes below. Some bumps on the arms can be itchy, partly because of inflammation and irritation in the skin. Possible causes of itchy bumps on the arms include: Eczema: While there are various types of eczema, it often causes a discolored, itchy rash that may be raised in some areas. Hives: These are discolored bumps that develop from an allergic reaction. Folliculitis: With folliculitis , inflamed hair follicles cause multiple bumps on the skin. Heat rash: You can develop heat rash from being exposed to excessive heat. It results in clogged sweat in your pores. Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition in which excessive skin cell growth leads to skin patches ranging from red to brown to silvery. Sebaceous hyperplasia: This skin condition causes flesh-colored or yellowish bumps and occurs when a decrease in cell turnover causes the crowding of sebocytes in the sebac eous gland. In addition to keratosis pilaris, acne is another typically non-itchy cause of bumps on the arms. dead skin cells bacteria dirt oil Skin cancers may or may not cause itchiness. Although this cause of arm bumps is rare, prompt diagnosis is important in preventing the tumors from spreading. Identifying keratosis pilaris can help determine whether your arm bumps are related to it or another skin condition. A doctor can diagnose the bumps on your arms with a physical exam . The possible causes of skin bumps can vary. Getting the correct diagnosis can help you properly treat them. A doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment, especially if a primary care doctor suspects an inflammatory skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. If the cause of your arm bumps isn’t quite clear, a dermatologist may conduct a biopsy . This procedure helps rule out skin cancers and fungal or bacterial causes. During a biopsy, a doctor removes a small piece of the skin for further study under a microscope. Treating bumps on the arms can depend on their cause. Exfoliation For skin conditions linked to the buildup of dead skin cells like keratosis pilaris, you can treat these bumps and help prevent others from forming with regular exfoliation . Options can include: chemical exfoliators like body washes and lotions with salicylic acid physical exfoliators like gentle sugar scrubs or using a loofa or washcloth procedures performed at a dermatologist’s office or medical spa, including dermabrasion and chemical peels retinol creams Be careful not to scrub. This can cause irritation and possibly more bumps. Because it removes dead skin cells from the top layer of skin so they don’t get trapped in your pores, exfoliating can also help with other causes of arm bumps. These may include: acne psoriasis dead skin cell buildup Note that exfoliation can irritate some causes of arm bumps, such as: eczema folliculitis heat rash Plus, this process won’t get rid of more serious bumps, such as skin cancers. Medications Other treatments for arm bumps depend on the underlying causes. Doctors typically treat inflammatory skin conditions with topical creams to help soothe the inflammation and prevent more bumps from occurring. Over-the-counter (OTC) creams with colloidal oatmeal or hydrocortisone may help soothe itchy skin bumps and provide some relief. If your skin doesn’t improve, you may need a prescription ointment. If a healthcare professional suspects that allergies contribute to your skin bumps, you may need to take an antihistamine. Skin reactions to allergens can take time to clear up, but treatment and prevention will help prevent the related skin bumps. It’s a good idea to contact a doctor, such as a dermatologist, to diagnose arm bumps and recommend a treatment plan. You should also contact a doctor if the bumps worsen or change in shape or size. You may need to make an urgent appointment if you start to see any symptoms of infection , such as: increased inflammation oozing or bleeding discharge or pus from the bumps If you don’t already have a dermatologist, the Healthline FindCare tool can help you locate a physician. Bumps on the arms are commonly caused by keratosis pilaris (chicken skin). Regular exfoliation can help remove bumps and prevent new ones from developing. Other causes of arm bumps may require a doctor’s visit and medical treatment. When in doubt, it is always a good idea to contact your doctor.
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Connect with us for all things health. Subscribe [Skin Care](https://www.healthline.com/skincare) - [Your Skin](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/skin-youre-in) - [Science](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/skin-science) - [Ingredients](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/ingredients) - [Routine](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/build-your-routine) - [Acne](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/acne) - [Conditions](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/conditions-and-concerns) - [Procedures](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/procedures) - [Products](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/products) - [Sun Protection](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/sun-protection) - [Natural](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/natural-and-diy) - [Hair & Nails](https://www.healthline.com/skincare/hair-and-nails) # Why Do I Have Bumps on My Arms? ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Raechele-Gathers-New-Headshot-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Raechele Cochran Gathers, MD]() — Written by [Kristeen Cherney]() — [Updated on March 27, 2025]() - [Keratosis pilaris](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#keratosis-pilaris) - [Itchy causes](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#itchy-causes) - [Non-itchy causes](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#non-itchy-causes) - [Diagnosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#diagnosis) - [Treatment](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#treatment) - [Contact a doctor](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#contact-a-doctor) - [Takeaway](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/why-do-i-have-bumps-on-my-arms#takeaway) ### Key takeaways - Small, rough-feeling bumps on the backside of your upper arms, buttocks, thighs, or elsewhere on the legs are usually keratosis pilaris. - Keratosis pilaris bumps do not itch and may be red, brown, or slightly darker than your skin tone. - Bumps that itch may be caused by eczema, hives, or folliculitis. Bumps on the arms [often result from](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/keratosis-pilaris/) keratosis pilaris, commonly known as chicken skin. Other possible causes can range from inflammatory skin conditions to irritation, such as folliculitis. Arm bumps are usually harmless unless they gradually change or get larger over time. However, because of the wide range of possible causes, you shouldn’t self-diagnose bumps on your arms; instead, consult with a doctor, such as a dermatologist. Keep reading to learn the possible causes of arm bumps and how doctors treat them. ## [What is keratosis pilaris, and what causes it?]() [Keratosis pilaris](https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris) typically causes small, rough-feeling bumps. They may appear: - red - brown - your skin color They tend to occur on the backs of your upper arms. They may also appear on your buttocks, [the backs of your thighs](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/red-bumps-on-legs), or elsewhere on your legs. Regular exfoliation can help, along with keeping your skin hydrated with [lotion](https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/best-lotions-for-the-whole-fam). While the bumps may feel dry and rough, keratosis pilaris usually isn’t itchy. ### Causes of keratosis pilaris Like [acne](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/types-of-acne), these bumps develop when dead skin cells get trapped in your pores. Some of the bumps may have pimple-like heads. However, keratosis pilaris bumps on the arms are often small and flat. Keratosis pilaris can be hereditary and may be difficult to prevent entirely. You may be more likely to get these bumps during dry times of the year. You may also have a higher risk of developing keratosis pilaris bumps if you have one or more of the following: - [eczema](https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema) - [dry skin](https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-skin) - [ichthyosis vulgaris](https://www.healthline.com/health/ichthyosis-vulgaris), or dead skin cell buildup - [allergies](https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies) and [hay fever](https://www.healthline.com/health/hay-fever-symptoms) - melanoma [and are taking](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keratosis-pilaris-causes) vemurafenib - [obesity](https://www.healthline.com/health/obesity) Keratosis pilaris may occur [more often](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keratosis-pilaris-causes) in females, teens, and young adults, but [research](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546708/) is mixed. Keratosis pilaris is a common cause of arm bumps, but it isn’t the only possible cause. It isn’t usually itchy, but some [other types of arm bumps](https://www.healthline.com/health/raised-skin-bump) can be. If the bumps on your arms are itchy, consider the possible causes below. ## [What causes itchy bumps on the arms?]() Some bumps on the arms can be itchy, partly because of [inflammation](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-inflammation) and irritation in the skin. Possible causes of itchy bumps on the arms include: - **Eczema:** While there are [various types of eczema,](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-eczema) it often causes a discolored, [itchy rash](https://www.healthline.com/health/difference-between-eczema-and-dermatitis) that may be raised in some areas. - **Hives:** These are [discolored bumps](https://www.healthline.com/health/hives) that develop from an allergic reaction. - **Folliculitis:** With [folliculitis](https://www.healthline.com/health/folliculitis), inflamed hair follicles cause multiple bumps on the skin. - **Heat rash:** You can develop [heat rash](https://www.healthline.com/health/heat-rash-pictures-remedies) from being exposed to excessive heat. It results in clogged sweat in your pores. - **Psoriasis:** [Psoriasis](https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis) is an inflammatory skin condition in which excessive skin cell growth leads to skin patches ranging from red to brown to silvery. - **Sebaceous hyperplasia:** [This skin condition](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-lumps/sebaceous-hyperplasia) causes flesh-colored or yellowish bumps and occurs when a decrease in cell turnover causes the crowding of sebocytes in the sebaceous gland. ## [What causes bumps on the arms that aren’t itchy?]() In addition to keratosis pilaris, acne is another typically non-itchy cause of bumps on the arms. [Pimples on the arms](https://www.healthline.com/health/pimples-on-arms) can develop when your pores get clogged with: - dead skin cells - bacteria - dirt - oil [Skin cancers](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-skin-cancer) may or may not cause itchiness. Although this cause of arm bumps is rare, prompt diagnosis is important in preventing the tumors from spreading. ## [Diagnosing bumps on the arms]() Identifying keratosis pilaris can help determine whether your arm bumps are related to it or another skin condition. A doctor can diagnose the bumps on your arms with [a physical exam](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-cancer/skin-exams). The possible causes of skin bumps can vary. Getting the correct diagnosis can help you properly treat them. A doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment, especially if a primary care doctor suspects an inflammatory skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. If the cause of your arm bumps isn’t quite clear, a dermatologist may conduct a [biopsy](https://www.healthline.com/health/biopsy). This procedure helps rule out skin cancers and fungal or bacterial causes. During a biopsy, a doctor removes a small piece of the skin for further study under a microscope. ## [How do you get rid of bumps on the arms?]() Treating bumps on the arms can depend on their cause. ### Exfoliation For skin conditions linked to the buildup of dead skin cells like keratosis pilaris, you can treat these bumps and help prevent others from forming with [regular exfoliation](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-often-should-you-exfoliate-your-body). Options can include: - [chemical exfoliators](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/chemical-exfoliation) like body washes and lotions with salicylic acid - physical exfoliators like gentle [sugar scrubs](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/diy-sugar-scrub) or using a loofa or washcloth - procedures performed at a dermatologist’s office or medical spa, including [dermabrasion](https://www.healthline.com/health/dermabrasion) and [chemical peels](https://www.healthline.com/health/chemical-peels) - retinol creams Be careful not to scrub. This can cause irritation and possibly more bumps. Because it removes dead skin cells from the top layer of skin so they don’t get trapped in your pores, [exfoliating](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/meaning-of-exfoliating) can also help with other causes of arm bumps. These may include: - acne - psoriasis - dead skin cell buildup Note that exfoliation can irritate some causes of arm bumps, such as: - eczema - folliculitis - heat rash Plus, this process won’t get rid of more serious bumps, such as skin cancers. ### The best loofah alternatives Read our recommendations to find the right [loofah alternative](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/loofah-alternatives) for you. ### Medications Other treatments for arm bumps depend on the underlying causes. Doctors typically treat inflammatory skin conditions with topical creams to help soothe the inflammation and prevent more bumps from occurring. Over-the-counter (OTC) creams with colloidal oatmeal or [hydrocortisone](https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/hydrocortisone-for-eczema) may help soothe itchy skin bumps and provide some relief. If your skin doesn’t improve, you may need a prescription ointment. If a healthcare professional suspects that allergies contribute to your skin bumps, you may need to take an antihistamine. Skin reactions to allergens can take time to clear up, but treatment and prevention will help prevent the related skin bumps. ## [When to contact a doctor]() It’s a good idea to contact a doctor, such as a dermatologist, to diagnose arm bumps and recommend a treatment plan. You should also contact a doctor if the bumps worsen or change in shape or size. You may need to make an urgent appointment if you start to see any symptoms of [infection](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-infection), such as: - increased inflammation - oozing or bleeding - discharge or [pus](https://www.healthline.com/health/pus) from the bumps If you don’t already have a dermatologist, the [Healthline FindCare tool](https://care.healthline.com/find-care/specialty/dermatology?ref=global) can help you locate a physician. ## [Takeaway]() Bumps on the arms are commonly caused by keratosis pilaris (chicken skin). Regular exfoliation can help remove bumps and prevent new ones from developing. Other causes of arm bumps may require a doctor’s visit and medical treatment. When in doubt, it is always a good idea to contact your doctor. ### How we reviewed this article: Sources History Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process). - 7 types of eczema. (n.d.). <https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema> - Farci F, et al. (2023). Sebaceous hyperplasia. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562148/> - Heat rash. (2023). <https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/heat-rash> - Keratosis pilaris. (2024). <https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/keratosis-pilaris> - Keratosis pilaris: Overview. (n.d.). <https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keratosis-pilaris-overview> - Ludmann P. (2024). Hives: Diagnosis and treatment. <https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hives-treatment> - Pennycook KB, et al. (2023). Keratosis pilaris. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546708/> - Winters RD, et al. (2023). Folliculitis. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547754/> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Raechele-Gathers-New-Headshot-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Raechele Cochran Gathers, MD]() — Written by [Kristeen Cherney]() — [Updated on March 27, 2025]() ## related stories - [Hyperkeratosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperkeratosis?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Psoriasis and Keratosis Pilaris: Symptoms, Treatment, and More](https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis-and-keratosis-pilaris?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Your Diet Cause or Relieve Keratosis Pilaris?](https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris-diet?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Everything You Need to Know About Exfoliating Your Skin Safely](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-exfoliate?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Does Angioedema on the Hands Look Like?](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-on-hands-look-like?utm_source=ReadNext) ### Read this next - [Hyperkeratosis](https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperkeratosis?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Sarah Taylor, MD, FAAD](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperkeratosis?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Psoriasis and Keratosis Pilaris: Symptoms, Treatment, and More](https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis-and-keratosis-pilaris?utm_source=ReadNext) [Psoriasis and keratosis pilaris both occur in patches and tend to run in families, but the similarities end there. Here’s how to tell them apart.](https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis-and-keratosis-pilaris?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis-and-keratosis-pilaris?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Your Diet Cause or Relieve Keratosis Pilaris?](https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris-diet?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Owen Kramer, MD](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Despite what you might read on the internet, your diet does not cause or cure keratosis pilaris. We'll explain what the research says about the…](https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris-diet?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris-diet?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Everything You Need to Know About Exfoliating Your Skin Safely](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-exfoliate?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Exfoliating can remove dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Learn about how to exfoliate your skin properly, based on skin type and places…](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-exfoliate?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-exfoliate?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Does Angioedema on the Hands Look Like?](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-on-hands-look-like?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Meredith Goodwin, MD, FAAFP](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Angioedema is swelling under the skin. It can affect many parts of the body, including the hands.](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-on-hands-look-like?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-on-hands-look-like?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to Know About Testing for Hereditary Angioedema](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/hereditary-angioedema-blood-genetic-tests?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Angelica Balingit, MD](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [To accurately diagnose hereditary angioedema, doctors will run a series of blood and genetic tests.](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/hereditary-angioedema-blood-genetic-tests?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/hereditary-angioedema-blood-genetic-tests?utm_source=ReadNext) - [How to Reduce Angioedema Swelling](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/how-to-reduce-angioedema-swelling?utm_source=ReadNext) [The best method for reducing angiodema swelling may depend on the cause.](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/how-to-reduce-angioedema-swelling?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/how-to-reduce-angioedema-swelling?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Baking Soda Skin Care Hacks: Why Experts Say to Avoid These Viral Trends](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/baking-soda-skin-care-hack-viral-beauty-trend?utm_source=ReadNext) [Baking soda skin care hacks are going viral on social media platforms like TikTok. Here’s why you might want to avoid putting baking soda on your skin,](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/baking-soda-skin-care-hack-viral-beauty-trend?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/baking-soda-skin-care-hack-viral-beauty-trend?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Diseases and Conditions That Can Cause Angioedema](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/diseases-and-conditions-cause-angioedema?utm_source=ReadNext) [Certain health conditions, such as lymphoma, leukemia, or autoimmune conditions, may cause angioedema.](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/diseases-and-conditions-cause-angioedema?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/diseases-and-conditions-cause-angioedema?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can Hereditary Angioedema Cause Pain?](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-cause-pain?utm_source=ReadNext) [Hereditary angioedema may cause painful swelling in the face, limbs, abdomen, and other parts of your body. Treatment can help reduce pain and other…](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-cause-pain?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/hereditary-angioedema/angioedema-cause-pain?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 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Readable Markdown
Bumps on the arms [often result from](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/keratosis-pilaris/) keratosis pilaris, commonly known as chicken skin. Other possible causes can range from inflammatory skin conditions to irritation, such as folliculitis. Arm bumps are usually harmless unless they gradually change or get larger over time. However, because of the wide range of possible causes, you shouldn’t self-diagnose bumps on your arms; instead, consult with a doctor, such as a dermatologist. Keep reading to learn the possible causes of arm bumps and how doctors treat them. [Keratosis pilaris](https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris) typically causes small, rough-feeling bumps. They may appear: - red - brown - your skin color They tend to occur on the backs of your upper arms. They may also appear on your buttocks, [the backs of your thighs](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/red-bumps-on-legs), or elsewhere on your legs. Regular exfoliation can help, along with keeping your skin hydrated with [lotion](https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/best-lotions-for-the-whole-fam). While the bumps may feel dry and rough, keratosis pilaris usually isn’t itchy. Causes of keratosis pilaris Like [acne](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/types-of-acne), these bumps develop when dead skin cells get trapped in your pores. Some of the bumps may have pimple-like heads. However, keratosis pilaris bumps on the arms are often small and flat. Keratosis pilaris can be hereditary and may be difficult to prevent entirely. You may be more likely to get these bumps during dry times of the year. You may also have a higher risk of developing keratosis pilaris bumps if you have one or more of the following: - [eczema](https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema) - [dry skin](https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-skin) - [ichthyosis vulgaris](https://www.healthline.com/health/ichthyosis-vulgaris), or dead skin cell buildup - [allergies](https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies) and [hay fever](https://www.healthline.com/health/hay-fever-symptoms) - melanoma [and are taking](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keratosis-pilaris-causes) vemurafenib - [obesity](https://www.healthline.com/health/obesity) Keratosis pilaris may occur [more often](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/keratosis-pilaris-causes) in females, teens, and young adults, but [research](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546708/) is mixed. Keratosis pilaris is a common cause of arm bumps, but it isn’t the only possible cause. It isn’t usually itchy, but some [other types of arm bumps](https://www.healthline.com/health/raised-skin-bump) can be. If the bumps on your arms are itchy, consider the possible causes below. Some bumps on the arms can be itchy, partly because of [inflammation](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-inflammation) and irritation in the skin. Possible causes of itchy bumps on the arms include: - **Eczema:** While there are [various types of eczema,](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-eczema) it often causes a discolored, [itchy rash](https://www.healthline.com/health/difference-between-eczema-and-dermatitis) that may be raised in some areas. - **Hives:** These are [discolored bumps](https://www.healthline.com/health/hives) that develop from an allergic reaction. - **Folliculitis:** With [folliculitis](https://www.healthline.com/health/folliculitis), inflamed hair follicles cause multiple bumps on the skin. - **Heat rash:** You can develop [heat rash](https://www.healthline.com/health/heat-rash-pictures-remedies) from being exposed to excessive heat. It results in clogged sweat in your pores. - **Psoriasis:** [Psoriasis](https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriasis) is an inflammatory skin condition in which excessive skin cell growth leads to skin patches ranging from red to brown to silvery. - **Sebaceous hyperplasia:** [This skin condition](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-lumps/sebaceous-hyperplasia) causes flesh-colored or yellowish bumps and occurs when a decrease in cell turnover causes the crowding of sebocytes in the sebaceous gland. In addition to keratosis pilaris, acne is another typically non-itchy cause of bumps on the arms. - dead skin cells - bacteria - dirt - oil [Skin cancers](https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-skin-cancer) may or may not cause itchiness. Although this cause of arm bumps is rare, prompt diagnosis is important in preventing the tumors from spreading. Identifying keratosis pilaris can help determine whether your arm bumps are related to it or another skin condition. A doctor can diagnose the bumps on your arms with [a physical exam](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-cancer/skin-exams). The possible causes of skin bumps can vary. Getting the correct diagnosis can help you properly treat them. A doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment, especially if a primary care doctor suspects an inflammatory skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. If the cause of your arm bumps isn’t quite clear, a dermatologist may conduct a [biopsy](https://www.healthline.com/health/biopsy). This procedure helps rule out skin cancers and fungal or bacterial causes. During a biopsy, a doctor removes a small piece of the skin for further study under a microscope. Treating bumps on the arms can depend on their cause. Exfoliation For skin conditions linked to the buildup of dead skin cells like keratosis pilaris, you can treat these bumps and help prevent others from forming with [regular exfoliation](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-often-should-you-exfoliate-your-body). Options can include: - [chemical exfoliators](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/chemical-exfoliation) like body washes and lotions with salicylic acid - physical exfoliators like gentle [sugar scrubs](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/diy-sugar-scrub) or using a loofa or washcloth - procedures performed at a dermatologist’s office or medical spa, including [dermabrasion](https://www.healthline.com/health/dermabrasion) and [chemical peels](https://www.healthline.com/health/chemical-peels) - retinol creams Be careful not to scrub. This can cause irritation and possibly more bumps. Because it removes dead skin cells from the top layer of skin so they don’t get trapped in your pores, [exfoliating](https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/meaning-of-exfoliating) can also help with other causes of arm bumps. These may include: - acne - psoriasis - dead skin cell buildup Note that exfoliation can irritate some causes of arm bumps, such as: - eczema - folliculitis - heat rash Plus, this process won’t get rid of more serious bumps, such as skin cancers. Medications Other treatments for arm bumps depend on the underlying causes. Doctors typically treat inflammatory skin conditions with topical creams to help soothe the inflammation and prevent more bumps from occurring. Over-the-counter (OTC) creams with colloidal oatmeal or [hydrocortisone](https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema/hydrocortisone-for-eczema) may help soothe itchy skin bumps and provide some relief. If your skin doesn’t improve, you may need a prescription ointment. If a healthcare professional suspects that allergies contribute to your skin bumps, you may need to take an antihistamine. Skin reactions to allergens can take time to clear up, but treatment and prevention will help prevent the related skin bumps. It’s a good idea to contact a doctor, such as a dermatologist, to diagnose arm bumps and recommend a treatment plan. You should also contact a doctor if the bumps worsen or change in shape or size. You may need to make an urgent appointment if you start to see any symptoms of [infection](https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-infection), such as: - increased inflammation - oozing or bleeding - discharge or [pus](https://www.healthline.com/health/pus) from the bumps If you don’t already have a dermatologist, the [Healthline FindCare tool](https://care.healthline.com/find-care/specialty/dermatology?ref=global) can help you locate a physician. Bumps on the arms are commonly caused by keratosis pilaris (chicken skin). Regular exfoliation can help remove bumps and prevent new ones from developing. Other causes of arm bumps may require a doctor’s visit and medical treatment. When in doubt, it is always a good idea to contact your doctor.
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