Stick to these skincare tips to prevent red bumps for once and for all

What’s your skin type? Well, it does matter, because there are different skin problems that can happen, if you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin. But there’s one common skin issue that can happen across skin types: red bumps. These bumps are harmless, but at times, they could be itchy. There are several natural ways to deal with it. 

But first, let’s see why these red bumps happen in the first place.  

Red bumps on the arms are a very common skin condition. Unless they gradually change or enlarge overtime, these bumps are usually harmless. Most bumps on the arms are caused by a skin condition called keratosis pilaris. This condition is characterised by small red or brown bumps that develop on the back of the upper arms. Like acne, these red bumps develop when dead skin cells get trapped in the skin pores. 

“Some of the bumps may have pimple-like heads. Keratosis pilaris consists of numerous small bumps that often occur in batches. They aren’t itchy, but they can have different colours: flesh-colored to red, pink, or brown bumps. Keratosis pilaris is completely harmless and not contagious. The condition appears to run in families, and people with eczema or atopic dermatitis have a higher risk of developing these red bumps on the arms,” explains Dr Nivedita Dadu, a celebrity dermatologist and founder of Dr Nivedita Dadu’s Dermatology Clinic

Fortunately, there are natural ways to deal with these red bumps

1. Exfoliation

Exfoliating can help to reduce the causes that lead to the appearance of arm bumps. This process helps to remove dead skin cells from the top layer of skin so they don’t get trapped in the pores. Use a loofah or a washcloth to gently exfoliate. Be extra careful during exfoliation, and try not to scrub, as this can cause irritation and possibly more bumps to form.

2. Adding omega-3 fatty acids

Fish oil has great benefits for keeping our skin, hair, and nails healthy. Cold water fish is used to make distilled fish oil supplements. Organic chia seeds, hemp seeds, and flax seeds are easy options to add more omega -3 fatty acids to your diet, in order to nourish and protect the skin cells.

3. Using hydrating lotion

Lotions with alpha hydroxy acid (AHAs) like lactic acids can hydrate dry skin and encourage cell turnover. Glycerin can also soften these bumps, while rose water can soothe skin inflammation.

4. Try dry brushing

Dry brushing helps to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. Use a natural bristle brush and move it in long sweeping motions, brushing each area of the body. Make sure to do this before you wet the skin. Do it very gently so that it doesn’t irritate the skin and cause inflammation. Once you’re done dry brushing, take a shower as usual and pat your skin dry. Apply a natural oil, like coconut oil, to the affected areas and the rest of the body.
Moisturize daily

It is so important to moisturize with natural, non-irritating products every day to reduce the appearance of red bumps from the arm. Applying a natural moisturizer like avocado to the affected areas will help to reduce inflammation and replenish hydration, leaving the skin feeling dewy instead of rough and flaky.

“Also avocado contains vitamin A, which serves as another keratosis pilaris treatment, because it can help to reduce redness and support skin cells,” recommends Dr Dadu.

5. Use humidifiers

Humidifiers add moisture to the air in a room, which can maintain the moisture in the skin and prevent itchy flare-ups.

But can these red bumps be avoided?

The answer to your question is a sureshot yes. Here’s how you can do that:

• Avoid hot showers and baths. Dry skin will only make keratosis pilaris worse. In some cases, these red bumps clear during the summer only to return in the winter season. So, always avoid long, hot showers or baths, which can suck moisture from the skin, and always follow up with a moisturizer of some kind.
  

• Use natural body oil on sopping wet skin just out of the shower every day. Using body oil seals in moisture in your skin, as you rub it in with your hands. It contains fewer ingredients, which is always a plus when dealing with irritated skin.
  

• Cleaning up your diet. Keratosis pilaris may be exacerbated by chronic, low-grade inflammation, and adopting a whole-foods-based, antioxidant-rich diet like the mediterranean diet helps to reduce inflammation. Increase the intake of vitamin A and D, since it encourages healthy skin cell production.

• Avoid tight clothes because wearing it can cause friction that can irritate the skin.

“Always consult a dermatologist, when the condition of these red bumps worsens or changes in shape or size,” warns Dr Dadu.

Ladies, your skin needs a little love and care, and you’ll be sorted!