What causes small, raised, itchy bumps on the body, and what should be done about them?

Dec 01, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, itchy raised bumps on the skin may be caused by dryness or dehydration, reactions to irritants, insect bite dermatitis, allergic dermatitis, eczema, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general measures, medication, or other treatments. Avoid scratching the itchy areas with hands in daily life to prevent skin damage and subsequent infection.

Generally, itchy raised bumps on the skin may be caused by dryness and dehydration, contact reactions to irritants, insect bite dermatitis, allergic dermatitis, eczema, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general care, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Dry and dehydrated skin: In dry climates or due to insufficient water intake, the skin loses moisture quickly, causing dry accumulation of the stratum corneum and forming small bumps accompanied by itching. Bathe daily with lukewarm water around 37°C, avoid excessive cleansing, and immediately apply urea-vitamin E cream after bathing. Use a humidifier indoors to maintain humidity, and drink more than 1,500 mL of water per day.

2. Reaction from contact with irritants: Contact with irritating substances such as synthetic fabrics or detergents can damage the skin barrier, resulting in red raised bumps. Immediately avoid suspected irritants, rinse the affected area with clean water, switch to loose cotton clothing, and use mild, fragrance-free, alcohol-free cleansers and skincare products.

3. Insect bite dermatitis: Mosquito or insect saliva injected during bites can trigger localized allergic reactions, leading to spindle-shaped red bumps with intense itching. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as calamine lotion, desonide cream, or hydrocortisone butyrate cream. When outdoors, wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellents to prevent further bites.

4. Allergic dermatitis: Exposure to allergens such as pollen or dust mites causes clusters of small raised bumps, accompanied by itching and redness. Patients should take antihistamines such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine capsules, or fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets as prescribed. Identify and avoid known allergens, and maintain indoor cleanliness to reduce dust mite proliferation.

5. Eczema: Inflammation triggered by immune abnormalities or environmental irritants leads to polymorphic skin bumps, often accompanied by oozing, flaking, and itching. Patients should use topical medications such as tacrolimus ointment, pimecrolimus cream, or mometasone furoate cream as directed by a physician. Avoid scratching the affected areas and limit consumption of spicy foods, seafood, and other potentially allergenic foods.

In daily life, avoid scratching itchy areas to prevent skin breaks and secondary infections. Maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late to strengthen skin resistance. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables to supplement vitamins, and promote skin barrier recovery through scientific skincare, thereby improving symptoms of bumps and itching.