Have you ever noticed flesh-colored bumps on your skin and wondered what they could be? Plenty of these sorts of bumps are harmless, while others may indicate an underlying skin issue. In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most common causes of raised skin bumps, what they look like, and when it’s time to consult a dermatologist.
Flesh-colored bumps are a common skin concern that can affect people of all ages. From benign conditions like milia to inflammatory issues like acne, these raised skin bumps vary widely in appearance and cause. While some may resolve on their own, others require professional evaluation and treatment. Let’s dive into the most frequent causes and the best ways to treat every variety of small bumps on your skin.
What Causes Small Flesh-Colored Bumps on Skin?
Flesh-colored bumps can be caused by so many conditions and factors, but some of the most common causes include acne, molluscum contagiosum, keratosis pilaris, milia, cysts, and more. Let’s break down each one.
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Acne
There are four different types of acne: comedones, papules and pustules, nodules, and cystic acne. Depending on which stage each of these types of acne are in, any of them can look like flesh-colored bumps.
When comedones are closed at the surface, they’re commonly called whiteheads, but they often look like flesh-colored bumps. Papules form when a comedone ruptures and the bacteria inside of them is released back into the skin. Sometimes they are red or pink, and sometimes they are flesh-colored.
Nodules are a type of acne often mistaken for papules and cystic acne, though nodules are formed when p. acne bacteria become trapped with excess oil and dead skin cells inside of our pores. Cystic acne can often look like flesh-colored bumps, but they’re actually filled with pus.
Acne affects people of all ages, but the good news is there are many acne treatment options available. If you are struggling with persistent acne that won’t go away on its own, schedule a consultation with your dermatologist to find out what treatment may be right for you.
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Molluscum Contagiosum
The primary symptom of molluscum contagiosum is flesh-colored bumps with a slightly depressed center or dimple; these are caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus which affects the skin and mucous membranes. These bumps are often itchy and can become easily inflamed but can become more painful and easily spread when itched. Skin-to-skin contact and touching something infected with the virus, like clothing or toys, can also cause the infection to spread, which is why children and teens often are more likely to get it.
Molluscum contagiosum can incubate for 2-8 weeks before symptoms appear. After symptoms have been present on the skin for some time, the bumps may begin to grow as pus begins to build up, leading them to possibly even burst. This can mean that the body is starting to clear the infection; however, some people may experience symptoms of the virus for months or years before symptoms fully disappear.
There are some at-home treatments available for molluscum contagiosum, but a consultation with a regular or pediatric dermatologist is recommended to thoroughly evaluate the condition and propose the best treatment for your or your child’s needs.
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Keratosis Pilaris
What is keratosis pilaris? Sometimes called “chicken skin,” keratosis pilaris is a very common skin condition where flesh-colored bumps form due to an excess buildup of the protein keratin. While this buildup can make the skin feel rough like sandpaper and sometimes itchy, it is harmless. Keratosis pilaris typically appears on areas such as the upper arms, the front of the thighs, and the buttocks. If large sections of skin in these areas feel rough or bumpy, there is a high chance you have keratosis pilaris.
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Milia
Milia are raised bumps on the skin often found on babies. Milia appear when dead skin cells and oil become trapped under the skin’s surface. Other reasons milia form include skin damage, long term use of steroid medication, and genetics.
Milia bumps are not painful, itchy, or contagious, but it can be irritating if it becomes persistent. Luckily, milia is easy to treat. Reach out to your dermatologist if you are considered about milia on you or your child.
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Atopic Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a term used when your skin becomes inflamed, though there are many different types of dermatitis. One common comparison is atopic dermatitis vs contact dermatitis, as both cause irritation but have different triggers.
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, leads to a rash that is itchy and scaly. Other symptoms include swelling and thickened skin. Eczema first appears in childhood, but as you age, flare-ups often improve, becoming less frequent. Atopic dermatitis can be caused by a compromised immune system or one that is not fully formed. The weather and harsh soaps and detergents can also lead to atopic dermatitis flare-ups.
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Skin Tags
Skin tags are flesh-colored (or slightly darker) bumps, that form in places where your skin rubs together. They may also darken in color when irritated. Skin tags aren’t harmful, but they can be annoying, as some can be painful, irritating, or bleed. You shouldn’t remove them on your own, as that can lead to infection or scarring, but a dermatologist can remove them for you.
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Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is a skin disease with an unknown cause; although it is similar in response to autoimmune conditions, more research is needed. When lichen planus affects the skin, it often appears as itchy flat bumps that take several weeks to develop. If you scratch the affected skin, you’ll begin to notice the rash spreading to where the skin has been scratched; however, unlike viral conditions like molluscum contagiosum, lichen planus is not contagious to others.
Lichen planus can also affect the inside of the mouth, especially the insides of the cheeks. Other areas that can be affected are the tongue, lips, and gums. The oral form of lichen planus may develop as lacy patches of tiny white dots and lines, redness and swelling, painful sores, and peeling of the gums.
Some lichen planus treatment options include light therapy or various medications. Schedule a consultation with your dermatologist if you suspect you have lichen planus.
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Moles
There are four types of moles, all which can appear as flesh-colored bumps. Congenital moles are moles you were born with, which are very common. Acquired nevi are moles that appear after you are born. This isn’t unusual and doesn’t necessarily mean a mole is cancerous, but if you develop 50 or more of these moles, you may be at a higher risk for melanoma.
Dysplastic nevi, also called atypical moles, are considered abnormal moles because they are larger in size, have uneven edges, or have an uneven surface. They can also become discolored, grow in size, or develop into melanoma over time, which is why atypical mole removal is often recommended for moderate to severely atypical dysplastic nevi. Spitz nevi are often raised, pink, and dome-shaped. You may even notice multiple colors within the mole, like red, black, and brown. Speak to your doctor if you notice these characteristics, as it can be difficult to distinguish this type of mole from melanoma without a biopsy.
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Cysts
Cysts are skin growths that are filled with fluid, air, a protein called keratin, or other substances. They can be large or small. They usually are not harmful and don’t need treatment, but a dermatologist can remove them if they become red, painful, or swollen.
Can Bumps on the Skin Be Caused by a Vitamin Deficiency?
Certain vitamin deficiencies may be linked to bumpy skin, with Vitamin A deficiencies sometimes being linked to keratosis pilaris. Since Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, a Vitamin C deficiency can sometimes lead to skin that is dry or rough. If your skin is looking dry and bumpy, your diet may be playing a role, but it is important not to rule out other possible factors as well.
How to Treat Small Flesh-Colored Bumps on Skin
How you get rid of the raised bumps on your skin is going to be determined by what’s causing them. Many of the causes of flesh-colored bumps like acne or keratosis pilaris are not a reason for concern and may not require treatment, while certain types of atypical moles or autoimmune skin conditions may deserve extra attention. For raised bumps on your skin that don’t require treatment by a professional, there are plenty of at-home remedies and reminders to help soothe the skin while it heals.
What Should You Do About Itchy Bumps on Your Skin?
No matter the cause of the bumps on your skin or how itchy they are, try not to pick at them. This can lead to scarring and infection with conditions like acne, and in some cases, like molluscum contagiosum, it can spread the virus or infection elsewhere on your body. Keep your skin moisturized throughout the day with a gentle moisturizer, use warm water when bathing (rather than hot water) or washing your hands, use a humidifier at night, and use gentle or mild skin care products and detergents to avoid irritation or inflammation.
When Should I See a Dermatologist for Flesh-Colored Bumps on Skin?
For raised skin bumps that aren’t responding to at-home treatments or are becoming intolerable, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist. Your dermatologist will conduct a skin exam and any other tests deemed necessary for a diagnosis. You’ll also review the at-home remedies you’ve already tried with your dermatologist. Because of the many different causes of flesh-colored bumps on your face and body, treatment can range from topical creams to oral medications to excision.
Flesh-colored bumps may be common, but they don’t have to disrupt your skin’s health or confidence. From diagnosing the cause to offering customized treatment options, our team is here to help. If you’re ready to address new or persistent skin concerns, schedule an appointment with our dermatologists today at 412-429-2570 or visit our contact page to book your appointment in the greater Pittsburgh, PA area. You can also follow us on Facebook to see what’s new in the world of dermatology.