Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Sunburn/Folliculitis

I have two different questions.  The first, I have what look like little acne bumps on my arms and forearms that have now over the years spread to most of my body.  My doctor has diagnosed it as Hyperkeratosis Pilaris, but when treatments failed he thought it was folliculitis.  That treatment also failed.  He doesn't know what it is or what to do.  Any suggestions?  The second question...I was severely burned in August of this year.  I wore spf 50 and put it on twice within a 4 hour period, but found out later that it was expired.  I ended up with deep second degree sunburns from mid thigh all the way down and onto my feet.  My feet were so swollen I had to go barefoot and my ankles were 3 times there normal size. I had huge blisters and could not walk at all for a while.  When all the blood rushed to my legs it hurt so bad.  What is this and why did this happen? I've never had these problems with other more minor sunburns.  My feet were so swollen and sometimes still swell later in the afternoon. My skin is also still very sensitive and dry.  What are some things I need to watch for?  How much longer is this going to go on?  Thank you for your time!
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
363110 tn?1340920419
Hyperkeratosis Pilaris is otherwise known as "Chicken Skin" because it resembles the skin of a plucked chicken with little bumps like goosebumps all over.
it's a common condition. there is no cure but treatments of different lotions and creams.
folliculitis is inflamation of the folicules.
When a person stands or sits the blood flow in the legs changes. similar to the experience of women during pregnancy who have pain while standing.
Since you had such a severe burn, the skin on those areas will be EXTRA sensitive. like baby skin which is why you still have problems. Use SPF 50+and make sure that it is not expired. then if you have issue try alovera lotion.

Watch for any moles that suddenly appear, or change shape and color.  I'm not sure how much longer it'll go on. you need to see a dermatologist.

I hope this helps!
TTYL,
Cindie
(Martikadragoon CL dermatology)
Helpful - 0
563773 tn?1374246539
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hello,

One possibility for your symptoms is keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris occurs when the human body produces excess keratin, a natural protein in the skin. There is currently no known cure for keratosis pilaris, however, there are effective treatments available which make its symptoms less apparent. Treatment includes tretinoin or Triamcinolone cream or Adapalene, a retinoid medication. Exfoliation, intensive moisturizing creams, creams and lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids and urea may be used to temporarily improve the appearance and texture of affected skin.

The swelling was due to the second degree burns that you had. Also apply a good sunscreen with minimum spf 30 atleast half an hour before going out in the sun and wear long sleeved cotton clothes. It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.







Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Dermatology Community

Top Dermatology Answerers
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Learn to identify and prevent bites from summer’s most common pests.
Doctors argue for legislation to curb this dangerous teen trend in the latest Missouri Medicine report.
10 ways to keep your skin healthy all winter long
How to get rid of lumpy fat on your arms, hips, thighs and bottom
Diet “do’s” and “don’ts” for healthy, radiant skin.
Images of rashes caused by common skin conditions