Concerns About Red Dots Beneath Clear Skin: Should I Be Alarmed?
Hello, I’m a 25-year-old who has been experiencing some small, recurrent bumps on my fingers. While I refer to them as "warts," they more accurately appear as tiny, sensitive dots that can persist for a few weeks. Medical professionals have suggested that these could be warts and recommend I use salicylic acid as a treatment. I applied the acid to one of the bumps over the past three weeks, and the results have been quite mixed. This treatment seemed to trigger two new bumps near the original one, yet I successfully removed two of them with the acid. However, the third bump proved to be stubborn, leading to irritated and open skin, prompting me to refrain from further treatment for the last few days. Currently, I’m observing an uncomfortable patch of skin that appears clear on the surface but has red, dot-like cells visible underneath. Should I be concerned about this condition? Are these even warts? They look different from the typical wart images I’ve come across, primarily lacking the usual rough texture.
Answers (1)
7/15/2025, 9:40:56 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing some frustrating skin issues with these recurring bumps, and your concern is completely valid. Based on your description, these may not be typical warts, especially since they appear sensitive and lack the rough texture commonly associated with them.
Main Points:
- The bumps could be different types of skin conditions, not just warts.
- Ongoing irritation and the appearance of new bumps after treatment are signs to reconsider your approach.
- Monitoring and self-care are important steps to take at this stage.
Explanation
The small, sensitive dots you describe might represent a few different skin conditions such as:
- Common warts: Usually rough and firm.
- Other viral warts or skin tags: May appear smoother and smaller.
- Folliculitis: Inflammation of hair follicles, which can cause red bumps.
- Pearly Penile Papules or other benign growths: Often mistaken for warts but are harmless.
It's important to avoid further irritation of the skin, as that can lead to more bumps or infection.
Next Steps:
- Stop using salicylic acid on the irritated area: Allow your skin to heal. Irritated, open skin can be more susceptible to infections.
- Keep the area clean and dry: Use gentle soap and avoid harsh scrubbing. After washing, you may apply a mild moisturizer to soothe the area.
- Do not pick or squeeze the bumps: This can cause further irritation and possible scarring.
- Monitor any changes closely: Take notes on the size, number of bumps, and any new symptoms (like pain or pus) so you can communicate this effectively if you seek further advice later.
- Consider a temporary pause in treatment: If the bumps persist or if new ones appear, it might be time to change your strategy; a dermatologist can provide tailored options, including possible treatments or further evaluations.
If the bumps worsen or if you develop signs of infection (like increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus), it’s important to seek professional medical advice. Don’t hesitate to ask about your concerns, as the goal is to ensure your skin health and peace of mind.
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