What are these little white spots I get all over my arms?

Question

I have little white spots on my arms - well they are a little pink with white stuff in them to be precise - not like spots on your face, its not pus in them.

What causes this and how can I get rid of them?

I use an exfoliating sponge and a body scrub but it doesn't help.

Answer 1

Very common, it's called Keratosis Pilaris.  I have it too; it's said to be hereditary.  I've tried loads of things but the best tips I have are:

Sunshine helps - not sure why, but my arms are much better in the summer;

Don't squeeze the little spots if you can help it; it seems to make them worse;

and the best products I've found are (in this order, in the shower):

Body Scrub - either Nirvana N-Spa body scrubs (any variety) - you can get these from Asda, or if not, then Soap & Glory Scrub of your life (from Boots), followed by either:

The Body Shop Vitamin E Body Wash, or

Soap and Glory Clean On Me shower gel

If you scrub and then wash with these in the shower each day your arms will get better.

You're not alone!

Answer 2

my brother has these and what helps his fade is:

sunlight

eating a lot of fruit

Vitamin E in body lotion and tablet form if you dont eat it in your diet

generally they come up more if hes just been ill or is about to be, so all i can really say is stick to a healthy diet!

x

Answer 3

Both of my sons have those the condition is called "keratosis pilaris" it is a harmless condition usually occurring in children and young adults. Exfoliating is actually one of the worst things you can do. Try using a soft wash cloth and a moisturizer containing alpha hydroxy acid or urea apply liberally and after your shower or bath while the skin is still moist. The condition usually improves after adult hood. Good luck!!!

Answer 4

I have this also...it's actually dry skin. Try using Aveeno moisturizing lotion with oatmeal, it's very hydrating and soothing to the skin. Don't be surprised if it takes about a month to clear up though, be patient.  

Answer 5

Are they smooth (not raised) and basically just a discoloration of sorts?  That's what I have on my legs sometimes.  Little white dots sometimes pinkish.  Someone told me one time that it's due to poor circulation.  I do notice that I get more when I am cold or get a chill.  I don't really know and have never had anyone give me a definitive answer.  I would check with a dermatologist if they are causing any itching or swelling, etc.

Answer 6

i have them too!!!!! idk how too get rid of them...their all over my upper arms...and they wont go away...if someone answers can u tell me? because i really wanna no how too get rid of them...thanx!~

              

                                o, and sorry i couldnt help...

Answer 7

Stop using Tipex.

Answer 8

i have the same, and i use scrub and stuff but they dont go away, and i moisturise. But i think its just passed through the family. I get it from my mum

Answer 9

If it's what I get, then they are spots in a way - if they stayed blocked, they could get infected and turn into pus. It's annoying, I've had them on my upper arm as long as I can remember, but they're just the pores of your skin not clearing out the sebum properly.

Answer 10

i'm not a doctor so don't take this too seriously, and if you really are concerned with it go see one

my completely unprofessional opinion is that its probably some super super SUPER mild type of keratosis pilaris?

i have it too, and that's what i'm thinking i have...

its super common though. lots of people have it.

but again, if you really want to know what it is and how to deal with it and stuff, talk to a doctor:)

exfoliate and then use a really good lotion, that seems to help mine a bit. just make sure to keep your skin hydrated