Nobody’s perfect — and that usually includes your skin. There are a number of different conditions that can make your skin lumpy, bumpy, or discolored.
- Cysts are closed pockets of tissue that may be filled with fluid or pus. They can appear anywhere, and feel like small lumps under the surface of the skin. Cysts can develop because of an infection, clogged oil glands, or even around foreign bodies like body jewelry. Skin cysts are generally slow growing and painless — and often disappear on their own. Some cysts do need to be drained; others may become infected and need to be drained.
- Epidermoid cysts (also known as sebaceous cysts) form from blocked oil glands. They are most often seen on the torso, the back, and in the groin area. The skin at the surface of the cyst may be darkened. An infected epidermoid cyst will be red and tender to the touch. These cysts must be completely removed — simply squeezing out the infected matter will allow the cyst to reappear.
- A cherry angioma is a smooth, red bump on the skin. They most often are seen on the trunk, but can develop anywhere on the body. Cherry angiomas are frequently seen on people over the age of forty. In most cases, these bumps don’t need treatment. However, if they are prone to bleeding, angiomas may be removed by a doctor or dermatologist. Removal can cause scarring.
- Keratosis pilaris is an unattractive but harmless skin condition. These small, rough bumps are most often seen on the upper arms and thighs but can also appear on the cheeks, back, and rear end. The bumps may be white or red and are often more prominent during the winter and other times of low humidity. Keratosis pilaris generally doesn’t itch or hurt, and often disappears gradually by the age of thirty. You can encourage healing by applying moisturizers several times a day — especially after bathing.
- Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles. It may be caused by an infection or by irritation (from shaving or friction, for example). Folliculitis is commonly seen on the face, thighs, and scalp. It is most common in people with diabetes, people who are obese, and people who have compromised immune systems. The skin looks rashy — you may see multiple pimples or pustules — and is often itchy. Topical antibiotics or antifungal medications may treat infections; minimizing friction can also help relieve folliculitis.
- Keratoacanthoma is a thick growth with a crusty center. These lumps happen when a hair follicle does not grow normally, and are often triggered by minor skin injury (like sun damage). Keratoacanthomas are most often seen in people over the age of sixty. They can grow quickly and become quite large — as big as six inches in diameter! Treatments can vary; your doctor or dermatologist will help you choose the best path.