What Causes Red Spots On Skin

Dermatitis is the medical term for skin inflammation or irritation. The skin is our protective barrier and the first line of defence against bacteria, but sometimes this barrier becomes weakened and the skin is irritated by an allergen. 

Contact dermatitis is a common condition that happens when the skin comes into contact with an allergen - a harmless substance the body has mistakenly identified as a threat - that causes the immune system to go into overdrive. This is what we know as an allergic reaction, which can be caused by soaps, creams, pollen and pets, among other things.

Depending on the severity of the condition, it should clear up in a few days or weeks. Moisturisers, antihistamines, or topical steroid creams may be prescribed to help relieve the symptoms. If you are worried about an allergic reaction, be sure to see a doctor.

To treat dermatitis, opt for products designed for sensitive skins, avoiding anything perfumed and harsh on the skin.

Heat rash or prickly heat as it’s often called, is usually caused when sweat glands become blocked, particularly in sweaty areas such as the armpits, chest, back, arms, and groin. The blocked sweat causes small, red, prickly bumps that can be itchy and uncomfortable, even painful.

People tend to get heat rash in hot weather or after exercise and it generally disappears after a few days. It will usually calm down of its own accord, but you can ease the itchiness by applying a flannel soaked in cool water to the affected area. 

An allergic reaction to the sun’s UV rays can also trigger red spots - when the immune system treats sun-altered skin as foreign cells and reacts in a way that can cause itchy skin. People with fair skin and young women are more susceptible to red, itchy skin triggered by heat or sun exposure. 

If heat rash is a problem for you, choose a sunscreen designed for sensitive skins. Discover our range of NIVEA sensitive sunscreens, to find the perfect sunscreen to protect your sensitive skin from irritating heat rash. All providing strong and reliable UV protection, for hours of fun in the sun.

Pityriasis rosea is a common rash that usually affects people aged 18-35, affecting the body but not the face. 

Pityriasis Rosea usually starts with one larger red spot on the chest or back (what’s known as the "herald patch"), followed at least two days later by a smaller widespread rash. The red raised, scaly patches are usually up to 1.5cm and can be itchy but not painful. 

Pityriasis rosea usually clears up without treatment but treat your skin with care. Again, opt for products designed for sensitive skin that help keep the pH balance of the skin. You should also protect the skin from the sun with a gentle sunscreen. 

These are red or purplish spots that occur when blood vessels beneath the skin burst - and can appear in rash-like groups. One way to distinguish between the two is that purpura are often larger than petechiae.

Blood spots may be harmless (known as Nonthrombocytopenic) or a sign of a more serious blood clotting disorder (Thrombocytopenic). If you are worried, make sure to seek medical attention.

There are a wide range of reasons behind purpura or petechiae. Here are some of the common ones:
- Straining i.e. when coughing, vomiting, lifting something heavy or  exercising vigorously
- UV light damage
- Ageing skin
- Laser treatments
- Vitamin K or C deficiency  
- Skin damage or trauma
- Blood vessel damage

Spots, or pimples, are caused when hair follicles become clogged with oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria. 

Sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles that lubricate the hair and the skin by producing an oily substance called sebum. If the glands produce too much sebum, it will combine with skin cells, oil, and bacteria and plug the follicle - causing a whitehead, acne or a blackhead. 

To help treat and prevent spots, use skincare specifically designed for oily skin. Contrary to what you might think, oily skin still needs hydration - in fact dryness can cause an overproduction of oil and make breakouts worse. Be sure to apply a mattifying moisturiser, to keep your skin hydrated whilst avoiding an overly oily look. 

Find your perfect moisturiser with our NIVEA Day Cream range, to keep your skin hydrated and to give it the best chance of preventing red spots from forming. 

These rough bumps on your arms, legs, or cheeks are caused by the retention of keratin (the type of protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails) in the hair follicles. 

A lack of moisturising, not enough exfoliation and a build up of dead skin can also trigger the condition, as well as harsh soaps or detergents. But how can you treat it?

Regular moisturising will help reduce the red bumps - but don’t be tempted to scrub at them as this could irritate the already dehydrated skin. To get the most out of your moisturiser, apply to damp skin after you’ve stepped out of the bath or shower, to lock in as much moisture as possible.