17 Common Causes of Red Dots on Skin

Red dots on the skin can be a concerning symptom for various reasons. These dots, also known as red spots or rashes, can appear anywhere on the body and may be accompanied by itching, pain, or other symptoms. Some causes of red dots on the skin are harmless and can be easily treated, while others may indicate a more serious medical condition that requires prompt attention.

Understanding the different causes of red dots on the skin can help you determine when to seek medical attention and receive appropriate treatment. In this article, we’ll explore 17 common causes of red dots on the skin.

red dots on the skin
red dots on the skin

17 Common Causes of red dots on Skin

Red dots on the skin can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Heat Rash (Milaria)

Heat rash, also known as miliaria, is a condition that occurs when sweat glands are blocked under the skin. It can lead to small, red, prickly bumps on the skin that can be itchy or painful. Heat rash usually appears in skin folds or areas where sweat accumulates, such as the armpits, chest, back, arms, and groin.

People who live in hot climates, sweat excessively, or are on prolonged bed rest are more prone to developing heat rash. Home remedies like cooling baths, cold compresses, and loose-fitting clothing can help lower the skin’s temperature and alleviate symptoms.

However, it is advisable to avoid applying thick moisturizers that can trap heat against the skin. Usually, the heat rash clears up within a few days. But if the skin is injured, a secondary infection may occur, requiring oral or topical antibiotics treatment.

2. Cherry Angiomas

Cherry angiomas, or cherry hemangiomas, are small skin growths that appear as round red or purple spots made up of blood vessels. The bumps can be raised or flat and may bleed occasionally, but they are not cancerous. Cherry angiomas are common in adults aged 30 and older and often appear on the torso, arms, legs, and scalp.

Usually, cherry angiomas do not require treatment. However, if they tend to bleed or affect your appearance, they can be removed using lasers or liquid nitrogen.

3. Petechiae

Petechiae are small, pinpoint, round red spots that can appear on your skin. These spots are caused by bleeding under the skin, which gives them their brown, red, or purple appearance.

They often appear in clusters, similar to a rash, and their color doesn’t change even if you press on them. In addition, these spots may also appear on your eyelids or the inside of your mouth.

While petechiae are common, they can indicate various medical conditions. Some of the most common causes of petechiae include allergic reactions, local injuries, autoimmune diseases, trauma, and viral infections.

If an infection is causing the petechiae to form, antibiotics may be prescribed as a treatment. For petechiae that are the result of capillary injuries, applying ice packs or cold compressions over the affected area can help.

Before applying ice, it is recommended to place a paper towel between the skin and the ice pack to prevent any damage to the skin surface.

4. Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs when your skin comes into contact with an irritating substance or an allergen. It can cause itchy, red, and bumpy rashes that may be accompanied by swelling, dryness, and flakiness on any body part.

There are two main types of contact dermatitis: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when the skin’s protective barrier is weakened, and the skin becomes irritated by a substance. Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts abnormally to an allergen.

Treatment for contact dermatitis depends on the cause but can include over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream or prescription oral antihistamines to help with the itching. In severe cases, your provider may prescribe a stronger cream or ointment. You should also avoid scratching the rash, as this can cause it to spread or become infected.

5. Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis Pilaris is a common skin condition that can cause red dots on the skin. This condition occurs when excess keratin, a protein in the skin, plugs hair follicles, resulting in small, rough bumps that may be red or flesh-colored.

Keratosis pilaris is typically seen on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and cheeks and is most common in people with dry skin or a history of eczema.

While keratosis pilaris is harmless and usually doesn’t require treatment, over-the-counter creams or lotions containing lactic acid, urea, or salicylic acid may help to smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of the bumps. Sometimes, prescription medications or professional treatments like laser therapy or microdermabrasion may be recommended.

6. Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis, also known as hypersensitivity vasculitis, is a condition that causes inflammation of small blood vessels. It is caused by an overactive immune system response to certain triggers such as infections, drugs, or food. This can cause damage to the blood vessels and result in the leakage of blood.

When leukocytoclastic vasculitis affects the skin, it causes damaged blood vessels that become leaky. This results in hemorrhage that appears as small areas of purple-red, raised lesions or tiny red dots, also called palpable purpura.

These lesions are most commonly found on the legs. While they generally do not cause symptoms, you may sometimes feel pain and itching. More severe vessel inflammation may result in large ulcerated blisters that can be quite painful.

The treatment of leukocytoclastic vasculitis will depend on the severity of the disease and the underlying cause. If you have a single occurrence of tiny red dots on the skin, this is an acute case. In this case, the lesion usually diminishes after removing the drug, infection, or food that may be causing the problem.

Get Rid of a Rash
Get Rid of a Rash

7. Ringworm (Tinea Corporis)

Ringworm is a contagious fungal skin infection that can cause red, blotchy, and circular rashes with raised edges. The affected skin can also become flaky and start to peel. Ringworm can be found on any body part, but it’s most common on the arms and legs.

Ringworm is caused by a fungus that spreads through skin-to-skin contact, contaminated objects, or surfaces. Pets can also transmit the fungus that causes ringworm.

A provider can diagnose ringworm based on how it looks. Most cases of ringworm can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription antifungal cream. If left untreated, it can spread and require an oral antifungal drug.

9. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin disorder that causes red, itchy, and scaly rashes, usually in skin folds such as the elbows, neck, wrists, behind the knees, or ears. It can also be found on the feet, toes, and fingers.

Atopic dermatitis is usually seen in children under the age of 5. A provider can diagnose it through a physical exam.

The treatment for atopic dermatitis usually includes topical steroid creams, antihistamines, or oral steroids for more severe cases. Keeping the skin well moisturized can also help reduce flare-ups.

10. Drug Rash

A drug rash can occur when your body has an allergic reaction to a medication. It can also be caused by drug hypersensitivity or be a side effect of a medication, such as photosensitive reactions.

A drug rash can appear as hives, rashes, or blisters. The inflammation can be caused by an allergy or sensitivity to an allergen. It can also be a side effect of a medication.

A provider will review all of the medications and supplements you’re currently taking to determine if the rash you have could be caused by one of them. If the condition does not improve after stopping a medication, a provider may prescribe treatments such as steroids or antihistamines to help reduce swelling and pain.

Small Red Dots on the Skin
Small Red Dots on the Skin

11. Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a common rash that usually affects adolescents, teens, and young adults. It is not a severe condition (benign). It usually starts with one larger red spot on the chest, torso, or back followed by smaller red spots with a ring-like shape. The affected skin can be scaly and itchy.

Experts don’t know what causes pityriasis rosea, but it is believed to be linked to a viral or bacterial infection.

Pityriasis rosea is usually diagnosed by its appearance. Sometimes, it will disappear on its own in six to eight weeks. A provider may prescribe steroids, antihistamines, or moisturizers to relieve symptoms.

12. Blood Spots(Purpura)

Blood spots or purpura are a medical condition that can cause red dots on the skin. Purpura occurs when small blood vessels under the skin break, leading to the appearance of small, flat red or purple dots.

According to an article on Medical News Today, purpura can be caused by various factors, including medications, infections, and medical conditions such as vasculitis or thrombocytopenia.

Treatment for purpura depends on the underlying cause and may involve managing the condition or discontinuing medications causing the symptoms.

13. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin. These patches, known as plaques, can appear anywhere on the body. Psoriasis can also cause red dots on the skin.

These red dots, known as papules, are raised bumps typically filled with pus. They can range from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in diameter. The papules can be itchy or tender and may be accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and fever.

Psoriasis treatment usually involves topical creams, ointments, oral medications, or light therapy. Proper treatment can help reduce the appearance of red dots on the skin and manage symptoms.

14. Lichen Planus

Lichen planus is a skin condition that can cause red dots. An abnormal immune response causes this condition and can lead to the appearance of flat-topped, itchy, red, or purple bumps on the skin.

According to an article on Medical News Today, the cause of lichen planus is not fully understood, but infections, medications, or other medical conditions may trigger it.

Treatment for lichen planus typically involves managing symptoms and may include topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and itching. In most cases, lichen planus will resolve on its own over time, but some cases may require ongoing treatment.

15. Pimples

Pimples are an annoying skin condition that can cause red, inflamed spots on the skin. They are caused by a build-up of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells which block the pores. Hormones, stress, and lifestyle factors can exacerbate this blockage.

Pimples can range from small red dots to large, painful cysts. They usually appear on the face but can also occur on other areas such as the back, neck, or chest.

To prevent pimples, it is essential to maintain a good skincare routine. This includes washing the face twice daily with a gentle cleanser and exfoliating once a week to remove dead skin cells.

16. Swimmer’s Itch (Cercarial Dermatitis) 

Swimmer’s itch or cercarial dermatitis is a skin condition that can cause red dots on the skin. This condition is caused by an allergic reaction to certain parasites that live in fresh or saltwater, such as snails or ducks. When these parasites come into contact with human skin, they can burrow into the top layer of skin and cause an itchy, red rash with small red dots.

According to an article on Healthline, swimmers’ itch is not contagious and can usually be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines or corticosteroid creams to reduce itching and inflammation.

Sometimes, prescription medications may be necessary to manage more severe symptoms. If you develop red dots on your skin after swimming in freshwater or saltwater, seeking medical attention to determine the underlying cause is essential.

17. Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is a potential complication of strep throat that may have serious consequences. It may result in permanent heart damage, stroke, or even death. While children between the ages of 5 and 15 are most commonly affected, it can also impact older children and adults.

It’s important to be aware of the specific symptoms associated with rheumatic fever, such as a sore throat accompanied by swollen lymph nodes, tiny red dots on the skin, difficulty swallowing, and thick, bloody discharge from the nose.

If your child exhibits these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek a strep test to confirm the presence of the fever. In cases where involuntary movements are causing serious problems, anticonvulsant medications may be necessary. Your child needs to get plenty of rest until their symptoms have completely subsided.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Red Spots on Your Skin?

If you have noticed red spots on your skin, you may be wondering what is causing them and whether or not you need to see a healthcare provider. While some causes of red spots may be harmless and resolve on their own, others may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.

  • If you are experiencing any of the following red flag symptoms along with red spots on your skin, it is important to seek medical care right away:
  • If you have a fever and red spots on your skin, it could be a sign of an infection or other serious condition.
  • If you feel overly tired or fatigued, this may be a sign that your body is fighting an infection or other illness.
  • If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath along with red spots on your skin, this could be a sign of a severe allergic reaction or respiratory condition.
  • If you are experiencing significant pain or swelling in the area of the red spots, it may be a sign of a more serious condition.
  • If you notice pus oozing from the red spots on your skin, this could be a sign of a bacterial infection.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing red spots on your skin and any red flag symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if you are unsure about the cause of your red spots or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

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