pimples on the arms of children present themselves as an aesthetic problem. In most cases it does not present a major health problem and therefore there is no need to worry. But before making an assessment of its manifestation, it is necessary to try to evaluate what is causing its appearance.
It can be seen that in most cases appears as a keratosis pilaris a benign condition where later we detail how to deal with this condition. On the other hand, they can be simple rashes that come and go occasionally.
What causes pimples on the arms of children?
Pimples on the arms is not a condition that manifests itself only in adolescents with their hormonal changes, but children also suffer from it. her delicate skin. The pimples grow by a build-up of a fatty layer on the skin and affects the hair follicles. Also the changes caused in women and during menopause causes pimples to appear.
keratosis pilaris
It is a benign condition which is produced by an accumulation of keratin, a protein that is present in the outer layer of the skin to protect it from infections or external substances. It comes in the form of pink pimples.
When an alteration of this substance occurs due to an excess, it is when a blockage of the hair follicles. When you pass your hand over this area, you will feel a fairly dry skin and where it will feel rough to the touch. Even the person may notice some itching regularly.
Keratosis does not have a specific treatment, but some measures can be taken that will help, such as specific showers and baths with lukewarm water, not very hot and lasting 10 minutes.
Use dermatological gel and do not use sponges. You have to dry the skin without rubbing, but with soft touches. Then moisturize the skin with a mild, fragrance-free moisturizing cream. The best clothes are cotton, if possible organic.
Molluscum virus (molluscum contagiosum)
It is a benign condition of viral origin. and it is very common to manifest itself in children, in areas such as the arms, belly, back and in some cases even on the face. Its shape may look like a small wart, which will look like small pimples.
It is characterized by having a white appearance and a pearlescent finish as if it had a central hole. They take a long time to be eliminated and the pediatrician can evaluate whether to wait or remove them manually or with some type of treatment.
The problem is that children are very easily infected with this virus and therefore extreme control must be exercised. The child must have very short nails to avoid scratching and causing its extension. In the same way you can cover affected areas with clothing, especially if you go to swimming courses. And above all, do not share towels and wash your hands frequently.
Atopic dermatitis or eczema
It is a skin inflammation that manifests with pimple-shaped shoots, because the skin is dry and where itching occurs. It is usually a hereditary factor and can be created by an allergy due to production of immunoglobulin E.
Immunoglobulin E acts as an antibody and creates a response against some pathogens, including environmental ones, and that causes a hypersensitive reaction in the skin.
It usually appears a lot in babies and children, especially at a young age. At a much older age it usually manifests itself, but occasionally. You have to avoid the sudden temperature changes, some creams or scented lotions that can irritate, contact with some animals, emotional stress and contact with some allergens such as mites.
Before any rash in any area of the body, you must Analyze what is the source that is causing it. If there is no explanation and the child shows some type of symptom that could add to this condition, you should go to the pediatrician so that he can assess what is happening.