If you have white small bumps on your ankle skin, there are a few conditions that may be responsible. They may go away on their own or be part of an underlying medical condition. To get a proper diagnosis, consult your doctor so he can do a full medical history and analysis.
Symptoms
Symptoms will vary, depending on what is causing your small white bumps. They may be present all the time or appear only when triggered. Triggers can be from rubbing or scratching the area or from allergic reactions to a substance. The bumps may be itchy or painful and can be soft or hard to the touch. The surrounding skin may even be rough and red.
Causes
Your small white bumps may be caused by acne, a skin condition that affects nearly 50 million Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Acne most often affects the face and upper torso, but it is possible to get it anywhere on your body. Acne results when your pores become blocked.
A common reason for small white bumps is folliculitis, or barber’s itch. It often affects men who shave, but it can appear wherever you have hair follicles. When the hair follicles get inflamed, and even infected by bacteria or fungi, the area will display small white bumps.
Related LeafTv Articles
Keratosis pilaris is another skin condition, often referred to as “goosebumps”. Keratin is a hard protein that works to protect your skin, but a build-up of keratin can block the pore opening. If this occurs, a hard plug forms and the result is rough bumpy skin with white or even red small bumps.
Medical Treatments
You may require medical treatments to clear up the white small bumps on your ankle skin, depending on the condition you have. Medicated ointments or lotions are often used to treat skin rashes and even topical exfoliants will work to smooth out your skin.
For more severe cases of folliculitis, you may need to use an oral antibiotic to clear up any infection, along with using medicated ointments.
Natural Treatments
You can do some self-care treatments at home, following some recommendations from MayoClinic.com. Try to not irritate your skin, as this most often triggers the bumps and makes them more noticeable. Wash your skin lightly and use oil-free moisturizers. Keep your skin healthy, clean and moisturized.
For folliculitis sufferers, an electric razor may reduce inflammation to the hair follicles. Try massaging the area you intend to shave and use a moist cloth to lift any hairs more easily.
Warnings
Small white bumps are often not serious medical conditions but if they get infected, they can become serious. Serious infections can result in scarring and the destruction of the follicles, and can even turn into internal infections. Consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
References
Writer Bio
Tamara Laschinsky began writing articles in 2008 to supplement her knowledge of alternative health and wellness practices. Her articles have been re-published on various websites and requested by readers across the globe. She holds a degree in business administration from Red River College.
