Skin Itch and Red Bumps: Allergy Insights and Solutions

Itchy skin with red spots?

Hello Dr.
Huang, I have a history of allergies and have experienced upper respiratory allergies, but I have never had skin allergies before.
About two months ago, I started experiencing itching on my skin (on my arms and calves), and it appeared as raised bumps (small, round patches) with a slightly reddish hue, which have been spreading.
After about two weeks, the itching subsided, but the raised bumps remained.
However, yesterday the itching returned (even on my thighs).
Could you please help me with a diagnosis?
P.S.
Is it possible that I am allergic to sunscreen or lotion? The itching started after I went to a very hot, sunny, and dry place, but I am unsure if it was due to the weather or because I used a new bottle of sunscreen that day, and I started itching that night.
Is it also possible that it could be a food allergy (I usually do not eat seafood, but I had some yesterday)? (Since I am currently abroad and won't return to Taiwan until the end of the year, I would appreciate any advice you can provide.
Thank you!)

Xiao Jiu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/25

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

In general, online diagnoses should not be made due to a high rate of misdiagnosis; it is essential to see the patient in person.
Based on your description, you might have keratosis pilaris.
You could try using lotions that contain AHA or lactic acid to see if they improve your condition.
However, be sure to avoid products that cause significant itching.

Reply Date: 2006/07/25

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating skin issue that could be related to allergies or other dermatological conditions. Given your history of respiratory allergies and the recent onset of itchy, red bumps on your skin, it's important to consider several potential causes and solutions.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe—itchy, raised bumps that appear red and seem to spread—could indeed be indicative of an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can manifest in various ways, including hives (urticaria), which are characterized by raised, itchy welts on the skin. These can be triggered by a variety of factors, including environmental allergens, skincare products, or even food.

In your case, since you mentioned that the itching began after using a new sunscreen, it's plausible that you could be experiencing a contact dermatitis reaction to one of the ingredients in that product. Sunscreens often contain various chemicals and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin or provoke an allergic response. If you suspect this might be the case, it would be wise to discontinue use of the sunscreen and observe whether your symptoms improve.

Additionally, you mentioned that you recently consumed seafood, which could also be a potential trigger for an allergic reaction, especially if you have a history of food allergies. While you noted that you typically do not eat seafood, it's possible to develop new allergies over time. If the itching and bumps persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to keep a food diary to track any correlations between what you eat and your skin reactions.

Given that your symptoms have fluctuated—starting with intense itching and then subsiding, only to return—this could suggest an intermittent allergic response. It's also worth noting that environmental factors, such as heat and dryness, can exacerbate skin conditions. If you were in a hot, dry climate when the symptoms first appeared, this could have contributed to skin irritation.

For immediate relief, consider the following steps:
1. Avoid Irritants: Stop using any new skincare products, including the sunscreen, until you can determine if they are causing the reaction. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to soothe your skin.

2. Cool Compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas can help reduce itching and inflammation.

3. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, can help alleviate itching and reduce allergic reactions. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking other medications.

4. Moisturize: Keeping your skin well-hydrated can help prevent dryness and irritation. Look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that are free from fragrances and dyes.

5. Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils and exacerbate itching. Opt for lukewarm showers instead.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the itching occurs, any new products you use, and any foods you eat. This information can be invaluable for identifying triggers.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A dermatologist or allergist can perform tests to determine the specific cause of your skin issues and recommend appropriate treatments. They may conduct a patch test to identify any contact allergens or suggest allergy testing to rule out food allergies.

In summary, while it is possible that your skin issues are related to an allergic reaction to a new product or food, careful observation and avoidance of potential triggers are key steps in managing your symptoms. If the problem persists, professional medical advice is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Persistent Itching: Causes and Solutions for Skin Issues

Hello... I am a woman in my forties. I have been experiencing itching for the past five years. Initially, I thought it was due to the new rosewood furniture we bought for our home. I have consulted numerous doctors and received various injections, but nothing has been effective. ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Based on your description, your condition may be urticaria (hives). There are many potential triggers for urticaria, including medications, foods, infections, emotional stress, temperature changes, and exposure to certain chemicals, all of which can cause allergic reactions. You ...

Understanding Systemic Itching: Causes and Relief for Skin Allergies

The skin is itchy all over, especially on the limbs, with small red and white bumps appearing on the body. The itching occurs at any time and sometimes even disrupts sleep. Scratching does not relieve the itch, but applying pressure to the itchy areas provides some relief, as if ...

Dr. Liao Wenyu reply Dermatology
Further evaluation in the outpatient clinic is necessary to determine the actual condition.

Effective Solutions for Persistent Skin Allergies: Seeking Relief

Every time the weather gets cooler or after being exposed to the wind, I develop small, red, swollen, and itchy bumps all over my body, similar to mosquito bites. This can even happen on hot days when I sweat. Over the past 15 years, I have consulted many traditional and Western ...

Dr. Liao Wenyu reply Dermatology
Hello: Based on your description, it may be chronic urticaria. This condition is often difficult to identify the underlying cause, and therefore it cannot be guaranteed to be completely eradicated. However, many new antihistamines are quite effective and safe, so they can still b...

Understanding Summer Skin Issues: Causes, Treatments, and Allergy Testing

As the weather gets hotter, I notice that areas near my joints develop large raised bumps that resemble mosquito bites. They are very itchy and often lead to scratching. Could this be a case of dermatitis? How should I treat it? Would allergy testing be helpful? What is the cost ...

Dr. Chen Yiying reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, eczema typically presents with changes in the epidermis, such as scaling and redness. Large raised areas resembling mosquito bites may be more indicative of urticaria (hives). Treatment usually involves oral antihistamines. Standard allergen t...