What You're Seeing: Most Likely Causes

1. Keratosis Pilaris ("Chicken Skin") - Most Likely

• Small, rough red or pink bumps clustered on the forearm (and often upper arms, thighs)
• Caused by a build-up of keratin protein blocking hair follicles
• Very common - affects up to 40% of adults
• Often worsens in dry/cold weather and improves in summer
• Tends to be chronic and come back over months/years
• Harmless, not contagious
• You might notice the skin feels slightly rough or "sandpaper-like"

2. Folliculitis

• Small red bumps around hair follicles, caused by bacterial or fungal infection
• Can be triggered by sweat, friction from clothing, or shaving
• More likely to be mildly itchy or tender
• Usually comes and goes in clusters

3. Cherry Angiomas

• Tiny, bright red/pink spots that are benign blood vessel growths
• Tend to increase in number over time
• More common in adults 30+
• Do NOT blanch (turn white) when you press on them

4. Petechiae (less likely, but worth checking)

• Tiny red pinpoint dots from minor bleeding under the skin
• Key test: Press a clear glass firmly over them - if they do NOT fade/turn white under pressure, this could be petechiae and needs medical attention
• Usually accompanied by other symptoms like bruising, fatigue, or illness

What You Can Do at Home Right Now

• If they fade (turn white) under pressure - likely keratosis pilaris, folliculitis, or cherry angiomas (benign)
• If they do NOT fade - could be petechiae, which warrants a doctor visit

When to See a Doctor

• The spots do not fade when pressed
• You have other symptoms: fever, unusual bruising, fatigue, bleeding from gums or nose
• The spots are spreading rapidly or becoming painful/swollen
• They have lasted more than 3 months without any improvement

For the Itching ("Getting Caught")

• Moisturize daily with a lotion containing urea, lactic acid, or glycolic acid
• Avoid hot showers - use lukewarm water
• Gentle exfoliation 2-3x a week
• Over-the-counter products with salicylic acid can help smooth the bumps