Stringy, Excess Eye Mucus Coming Out of Eye Causes, Treatment

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Stringy, Excess Eye Mucus Coming Out of Eye Causes, Treatment

What is mucus in eye? Why is mucus coming out of my eye in the morning or after waking up? Excessive and stringy eye mucus can be a sign of an eye infection. Here are the causes and treatments for excessive eye discharge or crusty eye mucus.

Eye discharge, or “sleep” in your eyes, is a combination of mucus, oil, skin cells and other debris that accumulates in the corner of your eye while you sleep. It can be wet and sticky or dry and crusty, depending on how much of the liquid in the discharge has evaporated.

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Other terms used to describe eye discharge include eye boogers, eye mattering, eye gunk and eye pus. Sometimes called rheum, eye discharge has a protective function, removing waste products and potentially harmful debris from the tear film and the front surface of your eyes.

Your eyes produce mucus throughout the day, but a continuous thin film of tears bathes your eyes when you blink, flushing out the rheum before it hardens in your eyes.

When you’re asleep — and not blinking — eye discharge (or mucus in eye) collects and crusts in the corners of your eyes and sometimes along the lash line, hence the term “sleep in your eyes.”

Some sleep in your eyes upon waking is normal, but excessive eye discharge, especially if it’s green or yellow in color and accompanied by blurry vision, light sensitivity or eye pain, can indicate a serious eye infection or eye disease and should be promptly examined by your eye doctor.

This article will highlight the causes of the stringy eye mucus and possible modes of treatment available for this condition.

Why is mucus coming out of eye?  What causes eye mucus?

The causes of eye mucus discharge, in excess include allergies, common cold, infections of the tear ducts and even after lasik eye surgery. Both viral and bacterial infections, glaucoma and bronchitis can also show signs of excess mucus in the eye.

1. Common cold

When you get a common cold, you may experience mucus in your eye. This occurs when the bacteria in the sinus cavities around the nose build up enough to take over and cause an infection. Sinus headaches. Pain or severe pressure behind and around the eyes, forehead, and upper cheeks can be a sign of sinus infection.

Remember, it is normal to have some headache at the beginning of a cold, or during the worst part of a cold. Green discharge from the eyes. If this is the only symptom, then it may be pink eye (or conjunctivitis). Eye drainage accompanied with all these other symptoms can mean sinus infection.

2. Allergies and pink eye mucus

Pink eye symptoms vary by type of conjunctivitis. Your symptoms may be a clue to the type of conjunctivitis you have.

If you have a bacterial infection causing your pink eye, you will usually have very red eyes. You may find crusting on your eyelids that can make them stick together as well as a heavy, pus-like discharge from your eyes that may be greenish at times. This infection may spread to both eyes.

Crusty mucus in eye in the morning
Crusty eyelids from pink eye or blepharitis

With viral conjunctivitis a very red, swollen eye, crusty eyelids and a more watery discharge is likely. This discharge can also have strands of mucus on eye or white, ropy strands. While many cases of viral pink eye infect only one eye, this infection can also spread to the other eye.

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If allergies are causing your conjunctivitis, it will often look similar to viral conjunctivitis. Your eyes will be red and tearing. However, they will also be itchy. It is likely you may have a stuffy, runny or itchy nose as well.

3. Tear duct infection

Dacryocystitis is an infection in the tear drainage system. Tears drain from each eye through small canals, a tear sac (lacrimal sac) and a tear duct (nasolacrimal duct).

Tears are made by a small organ above the eye under the upper lid. At the inner corner of each upper and lower eyelid is an opening to a small tube (drainage canal). The drainage canals carry away tears that have rinsed the front surface of the eye away so fresh tears can come in.

The tear drainage system can get infected if it becomes blocked and bacteria collect in the ducts or the lacrimal sac. A blockage near the nose also can cause excessive tearing from the eye.

Typical symptoms of acute tear duct infection include:

  • Pain, redness and swelling of the lower eyelid at the inner corner of the eye
  • Excessive tearing
  • Pus or mucus in eye
  • Fever

4. Contaminated eye contacts

Contaminated eye contacts can cause excess and stringy eye mucus
Contaminated eye contacts can cause excess and stringy eye mucus

Wearing old or dirty contact lenses is also a common cause of discharge. Contact lenses that are old are harmful in many ways.

First, the lenses themselves may be contaminated with bacteria or virus organisms that embed themselves into the lens or case material.

Second, deposits of protein and oils from your normal tear flow build up on the contact lens surface and are no longer recognized by your immune system as normal. This causes your body to react to these deposits with an inflammation that includes discharge and mucus in eye.

Third, old contact lenses don’t transmit as much oxygen to the front of the eyes, thereby causing hypoxia and leaving your eyes even more susceptible to opportunistic infection.

5. After lasik surgery

Dry eyes can occur naturally or as a result of LASIK eye surgery or or cataract surgery Kansas. Dry eyes may be a temporary side effect after a patient undergoes laser surgery. A person who had the condition prior to surgery may find their condition worsened.

If you are considering LASIK surgery, it is important to alert your surgeon prior to surgery if you have dry eye.

The eye requires natural tears, which are produced by the eye, providing continuous moisture. Dry eyes result where some people do not produce enough tears to keep the eye comfortable and healthy. This condition is known as Dry Eye Syndrome.

If you have Dry Eyes, you may experience a number of common symptoms including stinging or burning, scratchiness, excessive mucus in your eyes, reduced tolerance to smoke or wind, difficulty wearing contact lenses and excessive tearing.

In addition to irritation and physical pain of dry eyes, in more severe cases, the condition may impair overall visual function, with complaints of poor visual acuity or quality.

6. Bronchitis

Coughing up yellow and green mucus, fatigue, soreness in the chest: these are the symptoms of bronchitis. The acute form of bronchitis is usually a chest cold gone bad. The bronchial tubes in the lungs become inflamed which produces mucus and creates a cough.

Other signs of bronchitis include a mild headache, body aches, a low-grade fever, watery eyes, mucus in eyes and a sore throat. Most of these symptoms will last up to two miserable weeks, but the cough might linger for up to 8 weeks.

7. Glaucoma

A clear fluid called aqueous humor circulates inside the front portion of our eyes. To maintain a constant healthy eye pressure, the eye continually produces a small amount of aqueous humor while an equal amount of this fluid flows out of the eye.

The fluid flows out through a very tiny drain called the trabecular meshwork, a complex network of cells and tissue in an area called the drainage angle.

If you have glaucoma, the aqueous humor does not flow through the trabecular meshwork properly.

If the drainage angle is becoming less efficient at draining fluid, as in the common open-angle glaucoma, excess fluid cannot flow out of the eye properly, causing the intraocular pressure (IOP) to increase.

This lack of drainage or a less efficient drainage system causes build-up of the liquid humor and this in turn causes formation mucus in eye.

8. Viral and bacterial infections

Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and is caused by a virus such as the common cold or herpes simplex virus. Eye discharge associated with viral pink eye typically is clear and watery, but may include a white or light yellow mucus in eye component.

Bacterial conjunctivitis, as the name indicates, is caused by bacterial infection and can be sight-threatening if not treated promptly. Eye discharge is usually thicker and more pus-like (purulent) in consistency than viral pink eye, and is commonly yellow, green or even gray.

Often, the sticky mattering will cause your eyelids to feel completely glued shut upon waking in the morning.

See also:

Eye mucus in toddlers and infants.

A common problem in babies is a clogged tear duct in one or both eyes. Tears are made in the upper eyelid and drain into the nose through a duct on the lower eyelid.

A blocked tear duct causes the eye to appear to water excessively. Sometimes a thick, yellow drainage occurs. Unless the white of the eyeball looks red, this is not pink eye.

A small amount of dry stuff only in the corner of the eye. It may not even be pus. A collection of mucus can be cream colored. Often due to an irritant that got in the eye from dirty hands. Needs no treatment except wiping it away with warm water.

Blocked Tear Duct- Present in 10% of newborns. Main symptom is a constant watery eye. Tears fill the eye and run down the face. This happens even when not crying. The eye is not red and the eyelid is not swollen. The wet eye may get secondary infections. This will cause mucus in the eye of the toddler.

Excess eye mucus discharge

Conjunctivitis will cause your eyes to feel itchy, irritated, and gritty, and produces green, white, or yellow eye mucus that results in severe crusting. Conjunctivitis could make your eyes feel as if they are glued shut upon your waking.

  • Blepharitis – This eyelid disorder can often result in the production of excessive yellow or green eye pus, foamy eye discharge, and eyelid crusting.
  • Stye – Often caused by an infected eyelash follicle, a stye can trigger yellow pus, eyelid crusting and discomfort while blinking.

These conditions can cause the eye to have excess discharge of mucus in eyes. It would be advisable to seek medical help from your primary healthcare provider.

White mucus in eye

Small amounts of white mucus in the eye are common. Some drainage or crusting of the lids, especially in the morning, may be normal.

Clear or watery drainage from the eye is often due to allergies or a virus. The eyes may also be itchy and red and feel scratchy. Colds, flu, and viral pinkeye (conjunctivitis) also can cause watery eyes and a runny nose.

It is very common for pinkeye drainage to cause the eyelids to stick together during sleep. When the eyelids are stuck together, they may swell during the night. This matting of the eyelids occurs with almost every type of pinkeye.

Once this matted drainage is cleaned away, the eyelid swelling usually goes away.

Creamy white drainage that causes the eyelids to be red, puffy, or stick together in the morning may mean a bacterial infection. If swelling and redness improve within 1 or 2 hours of opening your eyes and the drainage is clearing up gradually over a couple of days, the problem may be less serious.

If there are no other symptoms, 3 or 4 days of home treatment may be all that is needed to clear up the symptoms.

Stringy eye mucus

Mucus fishing is both something that patients do and a medical diagnosis. Patients with MFS literally ‘fish’ mucus in eyes with their finger, a tissue, cotton bud etc.

Common causes include dry eye, viral and allergic conjunctivitis, blepharitis and pterygium. For whatever reason the eyes produce more mucus and patients naturally clean it away. Unfortunately touching the very sensitive tissues on the surface of the eye or inside of the eyelid causes more inflammation and greater mucus production. Increased amounts can also come out when blowing nose.

Even if the original problem goes away a vicious cycle of production of mucus in eyes and fishing continues.

The most common complaint is the presence of stringy mucus that gathers inside the lower eyelid, sticks to the surface of the eye and covers the cornea interfering with vision. Some patients also complain of irritable, red and itchy eyes.

Related symptoms

Eye mucus may be accompanied with other symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, sneezing, blurry vision and discomfort at night or when waking up in the morning. Here are the different symptoms to look out for.

Sore throat and cough

When you get a cold that causes production of mucus in eyes, it will most likely to be accompanied by sore throat and a cough that could become severe. This is because for a cold to cause you to experience mucus in eyes, it has to be a really serious cold.

Blurry vision

Your eyes produce mucus throughout the day, but a continuous thin film of tears bathes your eyes when you blink, flushing out the rheum before it hardens in your eyes.

When you’re asleep — and not blinking — eye discharge collects and crusts in the corners of your eyes and sometimes along the lash line, hence the term “sleep in your eyes.”

Some sleep in your eyes upon waking is normal, but excessive eye discharge, especially if it’s green or yellow in color and accompanied by blurry vision, light sensitivity or eye pain, can indicate a serious eye infection or eye disease and should be promptly examined by your eye doctor

Eye mucus at night and after waking up

Eye mucus is described as thick, yellow discharge that forms in the corners of the eye. Often settling into a hard crust on the eyelid and lashes, mucus in eye can also be more pus-like, with green, liquid discharge leaking from the eye.

Most commonly, mucus builds overnight while you are sleeping, and it seeps out of your eye throughout the night. In more extreme cases, you might even wake up being unable to open your eyes. If you have an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis, mucus will continue to seep from the eye throughout the day.

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  1. A small amount of eye discharge is harmless, but if you notice changes in the color, frequency, consistency and amount, consult your eye doctor.
  2. If an eye infection is the cause of eye mucus, your eye care practitioner may prescribe antibiotic or antiviral eye drops and ointments. If eye allergies are making your eyes watery and irritated, over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops and decongestants may relieve symptoms.
  3. Warm compresses placed over your eyes may help relieve symptoms of itching and general eye discomfort, as well as help remove eye mucus. You can find great warm compresses on amazon here
  4. If your eyelids are stuck together, the best way to “unglue” your lids is to wet a washcloth in hot water and place it over your eyes for a few minutes, before gently wiping away the eye gunk.
  5. Using Tea Bags – Regular black or green tea bags that have been steeped in warm or cool water may help reduce swollen eyelids and redness of the eyes.
  6. The natural antioxidants and tannins in the tea may also provide some comfort from itchiness and burning.
  7. Placing tea bags on an infected or irritated eye shouldn’t have any adverse effects.
  8. Throwing away old make-up, especially make-up that was used while you had an infection in your eyes, will greatly reduce the chances of the infection coming back.
  9. Contaminated cosmetics are a leading cause of eye infection, and if they are not thrown away you will be reapplying the bacteria every time you use them.
  10. Replace and care for your contact lenses according to your eye doctor’s instructions. Remember to replace your storage case regularly as well. There are great contact lens solutions that work like your eyes with the same lubricant they have naturally

Sources and references:

  1. All About Vision: Eye Discharge.
  2. Seattle Children’s: Eye-Pus or Drainage.
  3. Eye Health Web: Eye Discharge- Symptoms, Causes and Reliefs.
  4. Silverstein Eye Centers: Signs of Abnormal Eye Discharge.

White Spots on Lips: Pictures & How to Get Rid of The Dots

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White Spots on Lips: Pictures & How to Get Rid of The Dots

Small white spots, patches, bumps or blotches on lips definitely mean something is happening to your lips. The little bumps appear on the lower lip, upper lip or even corners of lips. They may appear as little papules that are easily visible around the mouth when stretched, or even under the skin.

It is easy to think they are herpes or STD symptoms. Here are the causes and pictures of small white dots on lips and how to get rid of them.

Do you have small white or yellow colored small bumps on your lips? Are they painless? Most people complain of having white dots on lips that do not show symptoms, no pain and discomfort. The only type of discomfort that you may feel is the cosmetic trauma they may cause.

What do white dots on my lips mean?

White dots, spots, blotches, patches and bumps around lips and mouth are as a result of mild inflammation on the lips. They may be caused by any mild trauma that the mouth may suffer, maybe due to an infection such as an STD, cold sore or soreness and many other reasons that may not be specified.

Having small raised white bumps on lips can also mean Fordyce spots. Fordyce spots are painless but small raised yellowish white granules that form on the lips. They are said not to be harmful, but it is important to see a doctor to avoid any health problems with your lips.

Pictures and images

How do white bumps around lips look like? The actual appearance will depend on the cause. Some bumps or spots are raised dots while others are clusters of white spots that look like a rash on the lips.

White dots on lips
Clusters of small white bumps on lips

Fordyce spots, for example, appear as yellowish or whitish granules on the lips, either the upper lip or the lower lip. STD or HPV (herpes) spots can appear as painless blister-like spots on your lips. Cancer dots on the mouth can be hard and recurring.

Causes

Causes may vary depending on the actual type of papules or bumps on the lips. For instance, Fordyce granules may be normal only that they appear on the lips (where they are actually not supposed to appear).

STDs such as herpes (HPV), HIV, and cancer, smoking, common cold, vitamin deficiency, fungal infections, stress, sun exposure and allergic reactions can all cause white dots on lips.

1. Fordyce spots

white fordyce granules on lips above and below
White fordyce granules on lips above and below

Fordyce spots are also called Fordyce granules. They can be about 1 millimeter to 3 millimeter. They appear as small white granules or tiny white dots. Typically, Fordyce dots are small bumps that appear on the border of your lips or on the lip line. Fordyce dots and granules form within the part of the mouth tissue that is colored.

Do not worry about Fordyce granules and spots because they are normal oily glands which may just be visible because of reasons of skin complexion and variation in the pigmentation. Some people notice Fordyce spots as white dots on lips when stretched. Note that:

  • Fordyce patches and granules are painless
  • They are harmless glands
  • These dots are not an STD, but you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

See pictures of white Fordyce bumps to be able to distinguish them from other conditions that manifest themselves in the same way. See the end for Fordyce spots on lips treatment.

2. STDs, herpes or HPV

Another possible cause of white bumps on the lips is herpes or human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Normally, the symptoms of HPV are visible on other parts of the body as well, such as the vagina, penis and in the throat.

According to WebMD, “…sexually-transmitted HPV viruses are spread through contact with infected genital skin, mucous membranes, or bodily fluids, and can be passed through intercourse and oral sex.”

Sharing drinks, utensils such as spoons, cups and glasses with an infected person can easily transmit HPV to other people. White dots around the mouth after kissing could also be a cause of these bumps on your lips.

3. HSV virus and cold sores or fever blisters

Another possible cause is the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This one causes cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth and nose.

Yellowish white areas on the lips may be caused by HSV1 on the lips and may appear as tiny white blisters around the mouth or corners of the mouth.

Sometimes, the blisters may be formed on the lip line, upper lip or lower lip, and may become itchy and eventually rapture. They start as small itchy pimples and may grow into a blister in two days.

4. Milia spots

Milia spots appear as little whiteheads. They may keep coming and going away. Milia spots are small white cysts that are found in clusters or groups. They are caused by “keratin that becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin.”

According to Dermadoctor, milia spots can occur on the cheeks, mouth, and even mucous membranes of the body.

“Certain lipsticks, lip balms and products meant to help with chapped lips may be the cause of little white pearly milia developing around the lipstick edge (aka vermillion border) of the lips.” [Dermadoctor.com]

5. Allergic reaction

Rashes form on the lips due to contact with some irritants such as titanium and mica chemicals.

Symptoms of contact allergy rash on the mouth include burning sensation, white bumps or white rash, and even peeling.

Antihistamines and steroid creams may be used to treat contact allergy and inflammation of the lips. It will help a lot to get rid of the white spots on lips if you avoid contact with the allergen that caused the rash in the first place.

6. White pimple on lip

A white spot on the lip line could be a pimple or whitehead. Pimples or acne spots are caused by clogged pores.

When pores are clogged with sweat, excess oil and dead skin cells, bacterial activity leads to an infection within the pore. The result will be a small raised dot.

Exfoliating your lips regularly can really help get rid of whiteheads and pimples. Anti-acne medications can also help reduce flare-ups. If you have a painful pimple around your mouth, anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve the pain.

7. Hard spot from oral cancer

Oral cancer white patch on lips that won't go away
Oral cancer white patch on lips that won’t go away.

This symptom may extend into white patches in the throat and on tonsils. This could be an indication of oral cancer, which is a dangerous problem altogether that you will need to seek medical attention soonest possible.

Oral cancer may manifest itself in an array of symptoms, among them hard white bumps on the lips, mouth, throat and areas around the oral cavity.

Sometimes, you may find that the patches, dots and bumps become open sores and lumps that do not heal, and may remain hard.

If you have a problem of white lumps around the mouth, ensure you see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Read more about oral cancer here.

8. Fungal infection or oral thrush

Oral thrush or fungal infections in the mouth are likely to lead to white patches or white dots.

Different strains yeast of the candida fungus can cause oral thrush patches, the most common one is candida albicans.

Oral thrush, affects mostly babies
Oral thrush, affects mostly babies

Women on birth control pills and patients on corticosteroid medications and some antibiotics are likely to get white dots and patches on lips more often. White spots on lips in babies are also common due to the high risk of fungal infections they are prone to.

People who suffer from immune depleting diseases such as diabetes, cancer and anemia can experience oral thrush a lot more than those who are healthy. Other factors that increase the risk of fungal infections in the mouth include smoking, wearing dentures and pregnancy.

9. Smoking, Juvederm, stress and sun exposure

Other causes of white dots on lips include smoking, stress and too much exposure to the sun. Some people who have undergone juvederm complain of white marks on lips. These may be unrelated or coincidental.

Smoking is a major cause of leukoplakia in the mouth. Leukoplakia manifests as white patches in the mouth. Therefore, white dots on inner lips may be a sign of leukoplakia patches spreading in the mouth.

Stress and vitamin deficiency may also lead to white bumps on lips. When stressed, the body is likely to produce excess oil that leads to acne breakouts. Stress rash is also another common occurrence on the lips.

Canker sores are also another cause of white dots that are not raised. They appear as if they are white dots under skin on lips. They are likely come and go or won’t go away easily. On the other hand, small vitiligo spots appear when lips are stretched.

Little dots or small white spots

Little white dots on lips are the most commonly reported symptom when people suffer from different conditions that manifest themselves as with small granules or bumps. Some of these may be a result of white fungus. Some people may experience white patches inside the mouth as well.

It is highly likely that when you have this sign, you could be having Fordyce spots. However, it could turn out to be something else as well as tiny white dots can also be hard, painless or even soft, tender and easy to rapture. In this case, an underlying bacterial infection, fungal infection or just the normal Fordyce could cause them.

  • If the little white dots are flat on the lips, then they are not likely to be Fordyce.
  • Raised tiny bumps are likely to be Fordyce white dots on lips.
  • White patches around your lips could be thrush and can spread to other parts of the mouth.
  • Vitiligo is the loss of your skin pigmentation or color and can show by small white dots around the mouth.

Bumps on the edge or corner of lips

It is common for herpes to form on the corners of lips or on the edges of lips. However, herpes is not a conclusive finding since the symptoms may differ from one person to another.

To be specific, white dots on corners of lips may be herpes lesions, which are generally known to begin on the corners of the mouth.

Important characteristics that may identify them as herpes are as follows:

  • The papules may also appear on other parts of the body such as the tongue
  • The white lip dots may appear as small blisters especially at their onset
  • The small tender white bumps on the lips may rapture
  • Some papules may become ulcerated before rapturing
  • Most importantly, white dots on the lips and mouth corners may be painful if they are a sign of herpes
  • Lastly, they can crust time before they heal.

White spot on lower lip and upper lip

White spot on lower lip
White spot on lower lip

Both the lower and the upper lip can get affected with white spots and dots. The causes may be any of those discussed above. The dots may appear as itchy, raised, small or large, on the upper lip line, as single dots or as clusters of white dots on the lower lip or upper lip depending on the cause.

Note that you should see a doctor as soon as possible if you have a growing bump on upper lip or lower lip. Painful and itchy dots on lips should be properly diagnosed because they could be caused by cancer, which can be fatal if not managed early enough.

Treatment

There is no known working way to prevent white vitiligo spots or even cure them. However, if caused by herpes or a fungal infection, the doctor may prescribe a treatment that is an anti-fungal, antibacterial or antiviral medications.

The treatment of white pots around and on your lips may depend on the causes or the underlying cause. Small white papules on lips are treated or cured by eliminating the underlying cause. Below are the common treatments that are applied to get rid of white lip dots after a diagnosis by the physician.

  • Cold sores are treated using antivirals that get rid of herpes simplex.
  • White spots caused by sunburn can be treated using vitamin E ointments and creams for the lips.
  • If the cause is contact allergy, you may get rid of white spots on lips by taking anti-allergens and avoiding those substances that cause the allergic reaction.
  • Fordyce spots on lips treatment involves laser treatment of the lips, which uses pulse dye laser beams.
  • Oral thrush and lip cancer may be treated the same way other cancers are cured. This may involve removal of the cancerous tissue on the lips or even using chemotherapy treatments.

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There you have it! The treatments and symptoms, causes of white dots on the lips that you should probably be aware of.

Of importance to note is that you must see a doctor before making any assumptions about what could be the problem of white dots on lips.

Sources and references

  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Genital HPV Infection – Fact Sheet
  3. Healthline Networks: What Is a Milium Cyst?

Pimples on Chin: Meaning & How to Get Rid of Chin Acne

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Pimples on Chin: Meaning & How to Get Rid of Chin Acne

Acne and pimples normally affect the face, neck area, back, chest and even shoulders. Most teenagers get pimples, but they can persist or disappear and occur at certain stages of life. Pimples during pregnancy, when ovulating and having periods (PMS) are common. These are associated with hormonal imbalance and changes in the body as you will learn under causes of chin pimples below.

Pimples on your chin can be painful, deep and blind. Hormonal chin acne is a major cause of the breakouts. Stress, birth control and hormonal imbalance in women is also a reason for acne on the jawline, chin and below the neck.

Here’s how to get rid of the painful pimples and whitehead on the chin with treatments and remedies.

Deep cystic pimples on chin
Flare-ups on the chin can be caused by hormonal imbalances.

Acne pimples on chin meaning

What do pimples on the chin mean? According to Chinese face mapping theories and Dr. Wang Zheng Hu, the “location of acne spots on your face can give you an indication of their underlying cause” in addition to telling the status of your general internal health.

In most cases, prominent white spots on chin, or acne on chin can mean hormonal problems and some gynecological issues. Kidney and liver problems have been found to have a notable relationship with chin breakouts. In addition, the bumps on chin or under chin can also mean you rest your hands on the face a lot.

It is common for people to get acne and pimple breakouts on the forehead, neck, around mouth, lips, chest, cheeks, jawline, chin line, under lip etc. The general causes may apply, other than those specified by Chinese medicine. Below are the causes of pimples around the chin area.

What causes pimples on chin?

According to Proactiv, pimples start to appear about two weeks before they erupt into breakouts. Pimples and acne zits start when skin pores get clogged with excess sebum and dead skin cells. Within the plugged pores, bacterial activity causes the body’s immune system into action, causing small pus-filled bumps on the skin that are pimples.

Both males and females can get pimples on the face and around the chin. The causes are basically the same, except for a few that may be unique to females than males, or people of different ages. Clogged skin pores, poor shaving, fatty diet, birth control and stress all cause pimples on the chin.

1. Hormonal acne from hormone imbalance

Hormonal pimples on chin are caused by an imbalance in the body’s hormones at different stages of growth. During puberty, teenagers get breakouts around the face for the same reason. For women, menstrual periods (PMS), pregnancy and menopause causes an imbalance in hormones.

How are hormone changes related to acne around the chin? A rise in progesterone hormone before period stimulates the production of sebum or excess oil in the skin. At this time, the skin will plump up and the pores get compressed. The excess oil acts as food for bacteria on skin. The result is increased breakouts and inflammation on the face, chin, jawline, breasts and around the mouth.

2. Chin breakouts after shaving (in men)

In men, shaving, waxing and threading can result in razor burn and razor bumps. Bumps around the neck and chin (appearing as pimples on chin) are a result of poor shaving techniques. Commonly, the bumps around the jawline, neck and chin appear to be red. They are caused by irritation on the skin when shaving.

If you have thick hair, you are prone to getting razor bump breakouts on the face, jawline and neck after shaving. This mostly occurs in men than in women. Noskinproblems.com identifies harsh shaving and aftershave products and tools as a cause of chin pimples and bumps as well.

3. Stress causes pimples in adults

Does stress cause breakouts around the face? Stress in itself does not cause acne on face. However, it triggers most of the causes in adults. Stress periods stimulate adrenal glands and in turn stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum or oil on the skin.

Pimple breakouts around the chin, forehead, jawline and cheeks can be a sign of stress. These areas receive the worst inflammation whenever the body or mind undergoes stress conditions. Other than flare-ups on chin and face, sleeplessness, hair loss and anxiety are some of the signs of stress in adults that may show alongside acne spots around the mouth.

4. You stopped your birth control pills

Birth control pills are usually used to help get rid of hormonal imbalance problems that cause pimples on chin, sides of jaw and cheeks. It is common for some women who are on birth control to get acne breakouts on chin after stopping the birth control pills.

Hormonal stabilization can take time before the whiteheads can go away. During this period, avoiding foods that cause acne cysts can help control the breakouts. Facial cleanses can also help unclog pores on the skin and prevent pimples.

5. Digestion problems

Chinese face mapping lists forehead pimples and chin pimples as a sign of digestive problems. It gets worse if your diet contains foods that cause acne, i.e. foods that are fatty or contain a high amount of fats.

According to Acne Einstein and Body Ecology, acne and gastrointestinal problems have strong connections. Acne patients have been found to show a “higher prevalence of gut problems.” Abdominal bloating, constipation, heartburn and intestinal inflammation patients are more likely to get acne on the forehead, jawline, chin and sides of cheeks. That is according to a study that included 13000 adolescents.

6. Diet (foods)

The one thing that could be the cause of a face full of pimples is diet or food allergies. But what foods can make you break out around the chin and mouth? Foods that make you have a high blood sugar level are more likely to cause acne flare-ups on the skin.

In a 2007 study, teenage boys who ate a low glycemic content in their food “showed significant improvement in their breakouts than those who didn’t. The following are diets and foods that cause pimples around chin and face.

  • Chocolate
  • Spicy foods such as those with red chilies
  • Cheese and most dairy products
  • Nuts
  • Peanut butter
  • Sushi
  • French Fries
  • Milk
  • Potato chips

In general, fatty foods and those laden with calories are not good for the health of your skin.

7. Breakouts before period, ovulation and during pregnancy

Expert sources on pregnancy such as Pregnancy Center note that being pregnant in itself “can trigger acne or make existing adult acne worse.” During pregnancy, ovulation and before period, there is a higher level of androgens in the body.

These hormones cause the enlargement of sebaceous glands, resulting in an increase in the amount of sebum produced around the face. Excess sebum and sweat is a precursor to acne and pimple breakouts on face during pregnancy, before period and ovulation or mid cycle.

8. Poor hygiene

Poor hygiene habits can also cause and worsen pimples on the chin and around the face. If you like touching your face, you are more likely to develop acne on areas you touch the most. Dirty cellphones touching the skin encourage bacteria that can contribute to pimples under chin, on sides of cheeks and temples.

Toughing the chin area, neck and jawline can also cause acne to spread around this area. Hands pick up dirt and can spread bad bacteria on other parts of the body, including your face.

9. Excessive sweating after exercise

Why do I get chin pimples after exercise? Too much sweat on the skin due to climates that are hot and humid can cause pimples and bumps on the face. This is common in people with an oily skin and the type of acne associated by sweating is called pityrosporum folliculitis.

The reason for pimples on chin from sweat is that the normal yeast on the skin can start to overgrow inside the pores. When temperatures go high during exercise and during summer, the yeast grows and feeds on the dirt and excess sweat on the skin, causing pimples, cysts and zits.

10. Menopause acne

During menopause, hormone levels and balance change in women. The level of estrogen reduces will that of testosterone increases. This change comes with stimulated sebaceous glands that end up producing excess sebum.

An oily skin is prone to acne breakouts, blackheads and whiteheads. “Women in menopause are most likely to spot acne blemishes near their chin, jaw, and mouth, but pimples can also appear on the chest and back” according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

11. Poor lymphatic drainage

Deep pimples or cystic pimples under chin and neck could be a sign of lymphatic drainage problems. Congestion in the lymphatic system due to poor drainage leaves your body with a load of toxins. These accumulate in the blood and skin.

  • Signs include: “Acne and cystic acne along the jawline, near the ears, cheeks, and/or sides of the mouth and chin (this is where lymph vessels run close to the surface)” [TheLoveVitamin.com].

Lymphatic drainage problems result in pimple breakouts that occur on areas that are mostly affected, including the neck, jawline, cheeks etc. So, if you are getting the zits and pimples that won’t go away all of a sudden, you could be having this problem.

Other causes of pimples near the chin and mouth include the following:

  • Kissing with makeup on. Makeup can clog pores and leave you with blemishes and breakouts.
  • Genetic disposition or hereditary acne.
  • Smoking regularly, which affects the health of your skin a lot.
  • Herpes and HIV infections can cause white bumps on lips and around the mouth and chin.
  • It is also possible to get pimple-like bumps under the chin from cold sores, rosacea, warts, ringworm infections, keratosis pilaris, moles and boils. See your doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment in case you think you have any of these conditions.

Painful pimple on chin or cystic acne pimples

Painful breakouts with no head can be difficult to get rid of. They can be itchy and highly inflamed. Blind pimples form deep in the skin and can hurt when you touch them. Why are pimples on my chin painful and deep?

Cystic acne forms deeper in the skin. The inflammation occurs closer to the nerves. Whiteheads that appear close to the skin can be squeezed and removed, but cystic pimples and cystic acne can take a long time before the head can become visible.

  • You can reduce the hurt from painful pimples using an ice pack. Place an ice pack on the pimple under your chin repeatedly at intervals of 5 minutes. This will reduce the pain from cystic pimples and acne.

Creams with salicylic acid, bentonite and zinc oxide can also help relieve the pain fast. They work by dissolving the debris and excess oil that clogs up pores. Getting rid of this plug reduces the inflammation.

Small hard pimples under chin

White bumps on chin can also be keratosis pilaris
White bumps on chin can also be keratosis pilaris

Pimples can be small or big, tender and sometimes hard bumps. A small hard pimple under your chin or on the jaw can be acne, but not always. It is possible that the hard pimples around the chin are small fatty cysts, keratosis pilaris or other types of bumps.

Small pimples that are consistent on the chin can also be keratosis pilaris bumps. Keratosis pilaris “a benign condition which appears as numerous small, rough red or tan bumps primarily around hair follicles on the upper arms, legs, buttocks, chin, and sometimes cheeks.” [Lagunaskincenter.com]. It manifests like goose bumps on the chin. These are sometimes called chicken skin or small bumps on chin.

How Get Rid of Pimples on Your Chin

Treatments and remedies alike can help you get rid of pimples on chin. However, treating the cause is the first step towards eliminating the breakouts on chin, jaw, neck and below lips.

Hormonal acne and cystic pimples under chin may require different methods of removal compared to normal breakouts. Below, we have discussed how to get rid of pimples on the chin naturally and with medical treatments.

1. Use topical acne creams, lotions and gels

Both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) creams can help get rid of chin pimples fast. Topical creams may however not be effective for acne vulgaris and cystic acne. Acne bumps on skin without open sores, also called comedones (or comedonal acne) can be treated using topical anti-acne creams.

  • Creams containing salicylic acid e.g. Stridex and Propa pH can help reduce chin pimples.
  • Triaz and Brevoxyl are benzoyl peroxide-based lotions that are said to remove the zits effectively too.
  • Another common ingredient to look for when looking for a topical anti-acne gel is retinoids. Creams such as Tazorac and Differin contain Retin-A or tretinoin, which is known to treat acne pimples successfully.

Another commonly prescribed cream is Azelex, containing azelaic acid. Be careful when choosing a topical cream for relieving itchy acne on chin. Some of these creams can be too strong for a sensitive skin, especially those with tretinoin.

2. Antibiotic treatment

Antibiotics can be used topically or orally. Antibiotic medications for acne on jawline, chin and cheeks or face area are only used when bacteria are present. Infected pimples on face can form small pus-filled cysts.

Inflamed pimples can be treated using oral antibiotics or topical options such as isotretinoin. For most of these, you will need a prescription from your doctor to be able to get some. However, you can also try OTC ones, mostly containing sulfur and sodium sulfacetamide. Some products with benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin can also help get rid of acne-causing bacteria.

3. Use tea tree oil remedy

Home remedies for acne can also be effective. Tea tree oil is one of the best, but should not be used on sensitive skin unless it is diluted. Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties and will help disinfect your pores and get rid of bacteria causing the inflammation. Here’s how to use tea tree oil to get rid of acne on chin, jawline and under the lip.

We highly recommend Essential Oil Labs Tea Tree Oil (Check price on Amazon)
  1. Put a few drops of tea tree oil in a glass.
  2. Using a cotton swab, dab the oil on your chin, making sure the bumps are covered with it.
  3. Repeat this three times a day.
  4. Mix tea tree oil with aloe vera or water if it causes your skin to dry, feel irritated or become red.

4. Fuller’s earth face mask remedy

Fuller’s earth, also called multani mitti, has long been used as a natural home remedy for oily skin. It reduces excess oil and opens up skin pores. This helps prevent pimples on the face, forehead, cheeks and even neck area. It can also help fade pimple marks fast and improve skin complexion. Here’s how to use this remedy.

Multani mitti face mask can cure chin breakouts
Multani mitti face mask can cure chin breakouts overnight.
  1. Gather your ingredients of sandalwood powder, rose water and fuller’s earth.
  2. Mix the three in equal proportions to make mud or paste of good thickness.
  3. Apply the mud to your face, including the chin area with pimples.
  4. Leave it on your face for about 30 minutes to dry up.
  5. Wash it off.

This natural home remedy for pimples can be applied once every week until the pimples clear.

5. Use apple cider vinegar remedy

Apple cider vinegar kills bacteria that cause breakouts on the skin. It will also help balance the pH of your skin, making it difficult for bacteria to thrive on it, feed on sweat and excess sebum to cause pimples.

  1. Cleanse your face with clean water and pat it dry.
  2. Mix apple cider vinegar with water in a ratio of 1:3.
  3. Dip a cotton ball into the solution and apply it on the chin acne pimples or zits.
  4. Leave it on the face for about 10 minutes. You can also leave it overnight.
  5. Wash the face with clean water and pat dry.
  6. Repeat this home treatment several times a day.
  7. Apply moisturizer to hydrate your skin and prevent it from drying.

6. Use honey for breakouts on chin

Honey is used to remove pimples on face. It can also help fade scars faster. Honey acts as a natural antibiotic as well as anti-inflammatory treatment. You can use it as a face mask and by consuming it directly in your diet.

  1. Put a little honey on your palm.
  2. Apply it to the acne and pimple breakouts using your fingers. You can apply it to the whole face.
  3. Leave it on for 30 minutes.
  4. Wash off the honey with lukewarm water.
  5. Repeat this remedy twice a day to get rid of pimples on chin fast.

7. Manage your stress

Stress can cause hormones to surge. As seen above, hormonal fluctuations can cause deep pimples on the face, jawline and under lips. Yoga, music and even massage therapies have been found to relieve stress. Here are more tips to help you manage and reduce stress and prevent whiteheads on chin.

  1. Identify the cause of your stress and start taking positive steps towards solving it.
  2. Keep a positive attitude all the time.
  3. Eat healthy. Eliminate foods that cause acne in your diet.
  4. Exercise regularly.
  5. Improve your time management skills to reduce stress from failures.

8. Do not pop deep pimples

Picking, squeezing, scratching and trying to pop pimples on your face does not help in getting rid of them. Popping pimples leads to scarring, scabs on pimples, infections and can also spread pimples to other parts of your face.

Deep cystic or blind pimples are even worse. Trying to pop them can lead to swelling. They can also become very painful and cause discomfort.

9. Warm compress for blind acne pimples

Deep, blind pimples are always difficult to treat. The infection lies deeper in the skin and closer to nerve endings. If you squeeze one, you will end up with a painful, swollen bump on chin. Here’s how to get rid of deep blind pimples (pimples with no head, and those that won’t pop) on jaw and chin using a warm compress.

  1. Make a warm or hot compress using a piece of wet cloth.
  2. Hold it right on top of the chin where there is a blind pimple for a few minutes.
  3. Keep putting it on the acne spot at intervals of a few minutes. Try to avoid burning yourself but keep it as hot as possible.
  4. Repeat this several times a day until the head of the pimple is drawn out and becomes visible, ready to be popped.

It is easy to treat acne vulgaris and blind pimples once you draw them to the surface. When deep, they remain itchy and painful, and will take long to heal.

10. Birth control therapy for hormonal acne

Birth control therapy is also called anti-androgen therapy (or sex hormone therapy). As we have already seen above, hormonal acne and pimples around the chin, face and jaws is triggered by hormonal imbalance.

The common stages in life when women experience these breakouts include during menopause, PMS, ovulation, pregnancy and even when breastfeeding. Stress factors and your diet or lifestyle can also trigger hormonal acne on the chin.

  • The common symptom of hormonal pimples and acne breakouts include spots and pimples around the mouth, chin line, back, shoulders, buttocks and even on the inner thighs. Most people get pimples on the nose, sides of cheeks and on the jaws.
  • Hormonal pimples around the body tends to be inflammatory. The pimples (hormonal cystic pimples) are big, itchy or inflamed, painful and red.
  • Typically, the pimples take long to heal and are generally stubborn to get rid of. It is normal for them to leave scars and pimple marks on chin even after healing.
  • Since they are itchy and painful, the blind pimples on chin can tempt you to scratch and pop. The result is further inflammation and swelling. Avoid trying to pop them or picking at them.

Increased testosterone causes breakouts under chin

In stressful situations, your body produces more cortisol, which in turn increases the level of male hormones, or testosterone to be precise. This makes the skin to increase its sebum production. In normal cases, sebum will make your skin glow, but on the bad side, it can also be excess and cause acne breakouts.

Both men and women can suffer from hormone-caused acne and pimple breakouts. Men who use steroid supplements to help in their muscle building increase the amount of testosterone in their bodies. This makes them more likely to suffer from frequent acne breakouts around the chin, jawline, neck and face.

In women, the problem is prevalent in those with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). This is a hormone disorder suffered by women. It causes insensitivity to insulin.

  • According to WebMD, “PCOS-related acne tends to flare in areas that are usually considered “hormonally sensitive,” especially the lower third of the face. This includes your cheeks, jawline, chin, and upper neck.”

Hormonal chin acne treatment

If zits on chin, jawline and lower face are caused by hormonal condition such as PCOS, treatments such as anti-acne creams and retinoid creams or gels don’t work. Your dermatologist will recommend a hormonal therapy to get rid of pimples under chin won’t go away. There are two main hormonal therapy treatments for chin acne and pimples caused by hormonal imbalances: spironolactone and birth control pills.

Prescription spironolactone is a drug originally formulated to treat hypertension and fluid retention. It can also be administered to help stop hormonal pimples on the chin and face region. It is highly preferred for use in patients who smoke or have other risk factors that may make birth control therapies ineffective.

On the other hand, birth control pills are the most common type of hormonal therapy. These help raise the amount of estrogen and progesterone. Example pills that are approved by the FDA for treatment of stress pimples, pregnancy pimples and acne before period include Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yaz and Estrostep. It may take up to 3 months to start seeing results with birth control treatment for chin pimples.

11. Watch your diet

Acne management will depend a lot on what you include in your diet. A diet rich in fiber and leafy vegetables will help a lot in curing pimples on the face. Knowing the foods to avoid in your diet, especially if your skin is acne-prone, will help you manage the breakouts even better.

  • Go for low glycemic foods in your diet. Processed wheat foods such as cakes and white bread have a high glycemic index and will cause acne breakouts on the chin and face area.
  • According to Glamour, avoid dairy products, a lot of sugar and fermented foods.
  • Chocolate is a bad choice of candy if you have chin pimple breakouts. Although there is little concrete evidence linking chocolate and acne spots as Prevention.com reports, it is important that you reduce dairy products in your diet.
  • Another dietary cure for pimple spots on the chin is to reduce or exclude fatty foods in your diet. Such include French fries and fried potato crisps.

Remember that clear skin starts with your diet. To get a flawless skin, include legumes, whole grains, fruits and green leafy vegetables. Ingredients such as Vitamin A and E, mineral zinc and general antioxidants reduce inflammation and prevent acne pimples breaking out on your face as well. Eat more of pumpkin seeds, turkey, cashews, lentils, quinoa, beef and seafood such as oysters and crabs as well.

Sources and References

  1. Pregnancy Center: Acne during pregnancy
  2. DermNet NZ: Anti-androgen therapy
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information: Hormonal Treatment of Acne in Women

Itchy Legs After Shaving or Waxing: How to Stop & Get Rid of the Discomfort

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Itchy Legs After Shaving or Waxing: How to Stop & Get Rid of the Discomfort

Itchy legs after shaving normally end up with razor burn and bumps. Poor hair removal methods such as rough waxing can lead to painful itching on the skin. Here’s how to get rid, treat, stop and prevent itching on the legs after shaving.

While shaving is an affordable and quick way to remove unwanted hair, it can have a major drawback: razor burn. Razor burn can be defined as a skin irritation that happens soon after an area has been shaved. It causes a burning sensation and can appear as a red rash. At times, it can be itchy and swollen, too.

Itchy legs after shaving
Razor burn on legs after shaving

Razor burn is commonly associated with men who shave their faces frequently. Women can also have razor burn after shaving their legs and armpits. There are several causes of razor burn, such as using a dull blade, using a hard soap, shaving dry, unconditioned skin and just having sensitive skin

Painful scratching can put even the most rational woman into a fit of frustration and tears. Itchy legs after shaving can happen for a few reasons, one being dry skin.

Sometimes, a rash may even appear after shaving. There are, however, many different ways and techniques to treat and prevent this irritating issue. This article will explore the causes, and how to stop, treat and get rid of the itching.

What causes legs to itch after shaving?

Irritation on the skin can make you feel like scratching. When you scratch, you worsen this feeling, and can easily cause bumps, pimples and sores on legs. But what causes legs to itch from shaving, waxing or hair removal. Improper shaving techniques are top of the list. The condition of your skin before shaving can also cause it to itch.

1. Dry Skin

If you already have dry skin, pressing any kind of object against your skin can cause irritation. This can include doing something as simple as drying off with a towel after showering.

2. Skin Sensitivity

People with sensitive skin are bothered by any possible irritant. Rashes and itchiness on the legs are a common problem for people with sensitive skin.

3. Dull Razors

Using a dull razor can cause you to press too hard on your skin while shaving, causes itchy legs after shaving and possible causing a rash. Dull razors simply do not work as you need them to.

Pushing harder to try and make them work better will only cause yourself discomfort and you will most likely still not get the close shave you are looking for.

4. Razor Burn

Itchy legs after shaving, get rid stop itching fast
Razor bumps follow razor rash

Using a dull razor, shaving too close to the skin, and pressing a razor too hard to the skin will cause razor burn. This burn can cause legs to itch just after shaving. This painful issue can also be caused by dry shaving and cold shaving.

5. Scratching

Itchy legs after shaving and rash after shaving legs will make you naturally want to scratch. Unfortunately, although this may soothe the flare-up at that present moment, scratching will only make legs itch worse.

6. Swimming in chlorine water pools

Compounds containing chlorine keep pools and hot tubs sanitary, but exposure to the chemical poses some health risks. Low levels of skin exposure can cause eye and skin irritation.

Higher levels can result in severe burns and ulcerations. Chlorine can also strip away your skin’s protective oils, which can make it dry and itchy.

Exposure to chlorine can cause contact dermatitis, or skin inflammation resulting from direct contact with an irritant. Symptoms may be a red rash and severe itching, as well as blisters in severe cases. The drying effects of chlorine and water may also cause itchiness without a rash.

7. Itching after waxing too often

Waxing removes unwanted hair, making your skin soft and beautiful, but beauty comes at a price. Bumps and red rash after waxing can appear which can last for hours or as long as 3 days, especially if you have sensitive skin.

The bumps are the result of an inflammation of the hair follicles called folliculitis and is unsightly and can cause discomfort.

8. Using too much pressure when shaving

Using a lot of pressure doesn’t actually make your shave any closer. All it does it collect even more dead skin cells in your blades and cause more friction and therefore irritation than normal.

As previously mentioned, your razor should be gliding over your skin, not scraping it. And if it’s not gliding, it’s time to replace it.

9. Irritating shaving cream

Female shaving cream is recommended for both male and female shaving as all products are more mild and gentle than almost any type of male shaving cream. Also, male shaving creams are often perfumed, which will cause stinging and irritation on legs after shaving.

Therefore, to avoid stinging and irritation after shaving it is prudent to use an oil-based cream and not an alcohol-based one.

How to Get Rid of Itchy Legs After Shaving

You can prevent itching and inflammation as soon as you shave. This will go a long way in preventing and getting rid of razor burn and bumps. Some of the home remedies you can use include cold compresses, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera etc. Here’s how to get rid of itchy legs from shaving.

Cold Compress

A cold compress is a very effective and easy way to get instant relief from the burning sensation caused by razor burns. It soothes the area and can reduce inflammation. Plus, it will help reduce redness and itchy legs after shaving, as well as prevent razor bumps from forming.

  1. Wrap a few ice cubes in a thin towel.
  2. Place the towel on the affected area for a few minutes.
  3. Alternatively, you can soak a cloth in cold water and place it on the affected area for a few minutes.
  4. Repeat either of these treatments several times a day as needed.
  5. To prevent razor burn, try splashing with cold water on your skin immediately after shaving.

Use apple Cider Vinegar to stop itchy legs fast

Are you looking for a way to stop itchy legs from shaving fast or immediately? Razor burns can be treated quickly with apple cider vinegar. Its anti-inflammatory properties work to reduce inflammation as well as the itchy legs sensation. Plus, the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps prevent infection.

  1. Dab a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it on the affected area.
  2. Allow it to air dry, and then wash it off with water.

Do this two or three times a day until the burning sensation stops.

Note: Those who have sensitive skin must dilute apple cider vinegar with water before applying it.

Aspirin treatment for shave itch

Aspirin is another easy and simple way to get rid of razor burn very quickly. The anti-inflammatory property of aspirin helps reduce redness and inflammation.

  • Put two aspirins in one teaspoon of warm water.
  • Let it sit for some time, until it turns into a paste.
  • Rub the paste on the affected skin.
  • Leave it on for 10 minutes, and then wash it off with lukewarm water.

Use this simple treatment twice a day to get rid of the discomfort. It will also help you get rid of razor bumps. Note: Those with highly sensitive skin should not use this remedy.

Aloe Vera cure for itchy legs

Aloe vera is another great choice for soothing the itch on legs after shaving and razor burns. The soothing, as well as the cooling nature of aloe vera, will give you instant relief from the burning sensation and inflammation. Also, aloe vera will keep the skin moisturized, which speeds up the healing process.

We recommend Aloe Vera gel for skin by FineVine (Check price on Amazon).

  1. Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe vera leaf.
  2. Rub the gel on the affected skin.
  3. Allow it to dry on its own, and then rinse it off with cold water.

Follow this treatment two or three times daily for two to three days.

Black Tea

The black tea bags that you use to make yourself a cup of tea can also help get rid of razor burn. The tannic acid in tea helps reduce redness and inflammation.

  1. Moisten a black tea bag in warm water.
  2. Allow the tea bag to cool or put it in the refrigerator for five to 10 minutes.
  3. Rub the cool tea bag over the affected area for two to three minutes.

Repeat several times daily as needed.

Honey

Known for its antibacterial properties, honey can also be used to soothe itchy legs after shaving. It can reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as keep the skin moisturized. Plus, honey can prevent the area from becoming infected.

  1. Apply some honey directly on the irritated skin.
  2. Allow it to air dry and rinse it off with cold water.
  3. Alternatively, you can mix together one-half teaspoon of honey and one tablespoon of plain yogurt.
  4. Apply this mixture on the affected area, allow it to sit for 15 minutes.
  5. Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Baking Soda

Another old-fashioned home treatment for itchy legs from shaving is baking soda. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, baking soda has a soothing effect on the skin. Plus, it helps relieve itching and reduces redness.

  1. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda in one cup of water.
  2. Soak a cotton ball in this solution and apply it on the affected skin.
  3. Leave it on for about five minutes, and then rinse with cool water.

Repeat two or three times daily as needed.

Cucumber to soothe itchy legs

The hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties of cucumber help deal with razor burn symptoms quickly. Plus, cucumber contains vitamins C and K, two important ingredients for relieving pain and itchiness.

  1. Slice a fresh cucumber and put the slices in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  2. Rub the cool cucumber slices gently on the razor burn for 10 minutes at a time.
  3. Repeat at regular intervals until the skin heals.

Alternatively:

  1. Puree half of a cucumber and mix it with one-quarter cup of milk.
  2. Put the mixture in the refrigerator to cool.
  3. Apply it on the affected area.
  4. Leave it on for about 10 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm water.

Use this treatment twice daily for two days.

Tea Tree Oil

Being rich in antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is another good choice for getting rid of razor burn quickly.

  1. Add five drops of tea tree oil to two tablespoons of water.
  2. Apply this diluted solution on the affected skin.
  3. Leave it on for 10 minutes, and then rinse with lukewarm water.
  4. Do this twice daily as needed.

Alternatively:

  • You can add two or three drops of tea tree oil to one tablespoon of olive oil.
  • Apply it on the irritated skin and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing it off.

We highly recommend 100% Pure, Undiluted Essential Oil from NaturoBliss (Check price on Amazon)

Oatmeal

The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal will help alleviate inflammation and skin irritation to reduce the discomfort of razor burn.

  1. Mix equal amounts of finely ground oatmeal and plain yogurt, and then add a little honey.
  2. Apply this mixture on the affected area.
  3. Leave it on for about 30 minutes, and then rinse it off with lukewarm water.
  4. Use this treatment once or twice daily for two to three days.

Cream for Itchy Legs After Shaving

Not all shaving creams are equal. Like any beauty product, different shaving creams are designed for different kinds of skin. If your skin is dry and irritable, then stay away from products that contain alcohol or fragrance

  • A moisturizing cream increases the skin’s ability to hold moisture. It penetrates deeply into the outer layers of the skin to restore the balance of lipids and to help prevent moisture loss. What creams do we recommend? A great choice would be Moisturizing Skin Cream from Vanicream (available on Amazon)
  • Any cream containing shea butter and cocoa butter, almond oil, lanolin among others which provide deep hydration. What are our recommendations?
  • Olive oil – yes, the kind used for cooking – is one of nature’s best moisturizers. It is high in vitamin E and antioxidants that maintain skin’s elasticity. It can be used as a lubricant when shaving as well as being used in place of baby oil or lotions. Olive oil has been used for thousands of years for many cosmetic uses.

How to Prevent Itchiness

Exfoliate. Many people are guilty of skipping this super-imperative step. In fact, you should be doing it both before and after you shave. It may seem like a waste of time, but your skin will be smoother and less prone to redness and irritation.

When you exfoliate before, it aligns your hairs for a uniform shave and sweeps away the dead skin, allowing for a closer shave. When you do it after, it unclogs your pores (from the shaving and creams, etc.) and prevents ingrown hairs (that cause razor bumps).

Always use a shaving lubricant. More on the specifics of creams and the like later, but using something to hydrate your skin is an absolute must. Do you feel like you’re being yelled at? Good! Always use shaving cream. Our recent favourite shaving lubricant is King of Shaves Alpha-Gel Shaving Gel (Check the price on Amazon)

Do not ever shave with just water. Soap and water is okay, but a cream designed especially for sensitive, to-be-shaved skin is best. And when you shave the same area twice, be sure to reapply.

Shave in the direction of your hair growth. Use razor strokes that go downward. Applying pressure with your razor against the grain of your hair causes irritation and bumps. Generally, this means down.

Shaving against the grain allows for a closer shave, sure. If that’s what you want, go for it. But the likelihood of your skin getting irritated increases exponentially when you do so.

Red Spots on the Roof of Mouth Causes and Treatment Options

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Red Spots on the Roof of Mouth Causes and Treatment Options

Discovering red spots on the roof of one’s mouth can be a very worrying experience. This is because the spots can be caused by a myriad of reasons. And while the red spots on the roof of mouth can be due to innocent causes, some may be quite serious and may require urgent medical attention.

What Causes Red Spots on Roof of Mouth?

Mouth sores and spots can be painful, unsightly, and annoying and while some may appear inside the mouth such as one lips, tongue, gums, and roof of the mouth or palate, others could occur outside the mouth around the lips, on the chin, and under the nose.

Red spots on roof of mouth
Red spots on roof of mouth

There are a number of potential causes of red spots on roof of mouth. Some of these issues are only small inconvenience. Presence of red spots on the roof of mouth might be a sign of different conditions and it is good to see a healthcare provider.

The following are a few possible causes of these red spots as well as how each condition would be treated.

1. Canker Sores

No one knows what causes canker sores. The vast majority of people who develop canker sores do not have another problem as the cause.

Both hereditary and environmental causes of the disease have been suggested, but the exact cause is not clear. A number of factors have been suggested to cause outbreaks in susceptible individuals.

  • Oral trauma
  • Hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle
  • Anxiety or stress
  • Smoking cessation
  • Heredity
  • Drugs (including anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen [Motrin], and beta-blockers, such as atenolol [Tenormin])
  • Food allergies or sensitivities (chocolate, tomatoes, nuts, and acidic foods such as pineapple, and preservatives such as benzoic acid and cinnamaldehyde)
  • Toothpastes containing sodium lauryl sulfate
  • Deficiencies of iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12 (although supplementation with iron or vitamins has not been shown to increase the likelihood of ulcer resolution).

2. Candidiasis bumps on palate

Which is also known as moniliasis or oral thrush, may also be indicated by presence of the red spots in mouth. This is a fungal infection and it produces white and red creamy patches on surface of mouth. It can be pretty painful and could cause a patient to have bad breath and experience difficulties in swallowing or tasking food.

Common in those with dentures and diabetes, candidiasis is most often treated by preventing the overgrowth in the first place

3. Coxsackievirus Infection

This is the virus responsible for hand, foot and mouth disease and can lead to painful red spots and blisters along the roof of the mouth of children in addition to their feet and hands. It can occur in all ages, but is most common among children under five.

4. Erythroplakia red spots on mouth roof

Another possibility is that the red spots on roof of mouth could be occurring due to thinning of the mouth lining. When the lining inside the mouth thins, the capillaries get closer to the surface and this makes them appear more reddish in color. The lesion areas called erythroplakia will tend to bleed easily if they are scraped and this is because they are raised to the surface.

The erythroplakia could at times be a predictor of possibility for developing cancer, therefore, it is important to seek help of doctor in order to have the red spots examined. Erythroplakia occurs as a red patch mainly on mouth floor and on gums but they could also affect the roof of mouth.

The cause for erythroplakia is unknown but is most often associated with use of alcohol or smoking. It can also be contributed to by poor nutrition and chronic irritation.

Erythroplakia, though most less common in relation to leukoplakia, it is the common lesion that will be found in people in precancerous stage when observed using a biopsy. If you have red lesions that are not healing in a week, it is essential you be evaluated by a doctor.

5. Oral Herpes

The red spots on the roof of the mouth could also be a sign of oral herpes. These sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type-1 referred to as HSV-1. The herpes simplex virus 1 causes small but painful blisters on lips, skin around the mouth, and on gums.

Oral herpes is an infection that is caused by primarily the HSV-1 or the type-1 herpes simplex virus. Oral herpes can be transmitted through contact with a person infected with the virus. If one gets in contact with saliva of an infected individual, he or she could contract the disease. Kissing and sharing of utensils could result to contracting the condition.

It is not typically an STI disease or sexually transmitted infection however, the HSV-1 could be passed from genitals to mouth and vice versa but in rare cases. People indulging in oral sex may risk contracting the virus from their partners, which could cause oral herpes.

If the dots or spots in your mouth precede a grey or white ulcer, they could be a sign of oral herpes. The ulcers could take some time to develop than red spot, therefore, you might have to wait for several days in order to see if you will develop the ulcer right in middle of the red spots. Another indication of red areas inside the mouth could be injuries to the roof of the mouth.

6. Strep throat symptoms

The bacteria can spread to you when a person with strep throat sneezes or blows his or her nose and you are nearby, or if you share the same forks, spoons, or straws. If you get strep throat, you’ll start to feel sick within 5 days after you were around the person who gave it to you.

To be able to diagnose whatever is ailing you, your doctor will look into your mouth. They will be looking for the following things:

Most of the time, strep will give you a sore throat, headache, stomachache, and fever. Typically strep will not give you a runny nose or cough, and occasionally it won’t give you any specific symptoms.

To be sure you have strep throat, your doctor may do one or two tests:

  1. First, he or she can do a rapid strep test to check for strep bacteria. The doctor takes a sample by rubbing a cotton swab over the back of your throat. With this test, the doctor may be able to find out in a few minutes if you have strep throat.
  2. If the first test doesn’t prove anything, your doctor might do a longer test called a throat culture. Again, the doctor will take a sample using a cotton swab. This time, the sample goes on a special dish and is left to sit for 2 nights. If you have strep throat, the bacteria will usually grow in the dish within 1-2 days.

7. HIV can cause red spots on roof of mouth

It’s estimated that 90% of people with HIV will develop at least one oral condition related to HIV disease. These conditions, like candidiasis and hairy leukoplakia, may be the first sign of immune suppression linked to HIV infection and in many people are the first signals that lead doctors to encourage HIV testing. Most show up as lesions or sores and can be categorized into four types: abnormal cell growth, bacterial, viral and fungal.

The most common oral conditions of HIV infection are discussed below, but many others exist. In fact, at least 40 conditions have been recorded, so it’s important to pay attention to changes in your oral health.

Treatment of Red Spots on Roof of Mouth.

When you have the red spots in mouth, it is essential that you seek medical attention because it is not easy to determine what might be causing them. There are many different conditions that can present in form of red dots within the roof of the mouth. Without proper examination, you might not know what you are suffering from.

  1. Canker Sores– Canker sores are not a serious condition and as such can be treated using over the counter medication for example an analgesic ointment. Mouthwash can also temporarily numb your sores. In some cases, you may need a prescription for medication with lidocaine or aphthasol.
  2. Candidiasis– The goal when treating candidiasis usually is to first stop the growth, then treat the root cause of the ailment. The treatments used to manage Candida infections vary substantially and are based on the anatomic location of the infection, the patients’ underlying disease and immune status, the patients’ risk factors for infection, the specific species of Candida responsible for infection, and, in some cases, the susceptibility of the Candida species to specific antifungal drugs.

See also: 

Pain on Roof of Mouth – Causes of Painful Sores and Bumps on Roof of Mouth

Black Spots on Lips, Causes, Baby Lips, Treatment and How to Get Rid

Thrush treatment commonly involves taking prescription antifungal medications for 10 to 14 days. They can be found in liquids, lozenges or tablets. In some cases, this issue will indicate another medical problem, so you may need to visit a doctor as well as a dentist.

  • Coxsackievirus– Treatment options for this condition include over-the-counter medications for fever and pain, as well as special medicated mouthwashes to help alleviate the discomfort associated with the oral sores.
  • Erythroplakia– The treatment options for erythroplakia can vary greatly. It’s always imperative to keep frequent follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. Sometimes surgical removal is necessary and in rare instances, laser surgery or cryosurgery is needed.
  • Oral Herpes- Untreated, the symptoms will generally subside in 1 to 2 weeks. Antiviral medications given by mouth may shorten the course of the symptoms and decrease pain.

Wash blisters gently with soap and water to minimize the spread of the virus to other areas of skin. An antiseptic soap may be recommended. Applying ice or warmth to the area may reduce pain.

Take precautions to avoid infecting others.

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to treat muscle aches or fever. You should also drink a lot of water to prevent dehydration. Your doctor may also prescribe a medication for fever.

Pain relief may be via a topical anesthetic like viscous lidocaine. There is an IV or oral medication, but only for those with weakened immune systems, severe disease or those who are under 6 weeks old.

In certain cases, people with oral herpes may need to be admitted to the hospital. This includes those younger than 6 weeks old, with a severe local infection, with an infection that spreads to the other organs, with weakened immune systems or those who are dehydrated.

  • Strep Throat – If you have strep throat, your doctor will give you an antibiotic, a medicine that kills bacteria. Usually the antibiotic used for strep throat is a form of penicillin. To make sure the bacteria go away completely and don’t spread to other parts of your body, you must finish the prescribed dosage. Your doctor will have you take the pills or liquid for 10 days.
  • HIV – As you may be well aware, HIV and AIDS doesn’t have a cure. When one tests positive for the virus, it is advised that they should immediately be introduced to anti-retroviral treatment. It is also adviced that one should not go off the medication for any reason because the moment the individual goes back to receive treatment they will have to be put on stronger medication with severe side effects.
  • Injuries – Hitting your mouth with a hard food item, like a pretzel, can lead to red spots. This would be a temporary injury and can cause multiple spots.

Treatment for red bumps on roof of mouth

Red spots caused by accidentally hitting the roof of your mouth usually go away within one to two weeks. You can suck on an ice pop or piece of ice frequently.

Also, try rinsing with salt water. While healing, opt for soft foods that are easy to swallow and avoid those that may cause stinging, like spicy foods, tomatoes and citrus juices or fruits.

It is therefore important to see your health care provider who, in addition to physically examining the (red) spots on the roof of your mouth, can talk with you about other aspects of your health.

For example, whether you are experiencing other symptoms, such as pain or fever, which will help narrow down the diagnosis of the potential cause and treatments, if any, of your red spots.

Even if it’s nothing serious, just knowing will help bring peace of mind.

Sources and references:

  1. Colgate: oral-health/conditions/mouth-sores-and-infections/article/sw-281474979070492
  2. New Health Advisor: Red-Spots-on-Roof-of-Mouth.html
  3. Medical Treasure: Red-dots-on-roof-of-mouth
  4. Kids Health: kidshealth.org

Bumps on Elbows Causes & How to Get Rid of Small Red, White Elbow Lumps

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Bumps on Elbows Causes & How to Get Rid of Small Red, White Elbow Lumps

What causes bumps on elbows? Any number of medical conditions and environmental factors can contribute to the formation of small red and white bumps on the elbows that can become quite uncomfortable and rather painful.

The elbows often become exposed to irritants from soaps, clothing or sun. They also are prone to pressure-sensitive skin irritations. Since the causes of the bumps vary, the mode of treatment and remedy will vary depending on the cause.

Bumps on elbows or elbow rash
Bumps on elbows or elbow rash

What Causes Bumps on Elbows?

Bumps on one’s elbows are caused by a myriad of reasons. One of the causes is bumps on the elbows in babies is due to either psoriasis, scabies or eczema which are the most common skin conditions.

These skin conditions are generally caused by a combination of genetics and irritation of the immune system and allergens. Psoriasis and eczema generally occurs in elbows, knees, knuckles, forearms and fingers, and generally any place that naturally creases.

Bumps can also form in babies’ elbows amongst other body parts due to scabies. This is a condition that is caused by tiny parasitic mites that hide under the skin. If your baby gets scabies, he’ll develop an extremely itchy rash. It will appear as red scattered little bumps usually around his fingers, wrists and elbows.

Scabies is also a highly contagious conditions that can be passed from anyone who has contact with your baby to your infant. Other causes for bumps on elbows include:

Tanning or Sun Exposure

Little bumps can appear all over the body after tanning. However, they are more commonly found in certain areas, such as stomach, chest, back and legs which are exposed to the ultraviolet rays for a longer duration.

These eruptions are often referred to as tan bed rash which may develop immediately after tanning or a few days later. They look like blisters and are red in color. Their appearance is very similar to that of heat rash. The skin bumps may or may not be painful but cause a lot of irritation.

These bumps are caused by excessive exposure to UV rays. Lighter skinned people are also more prone to formation of itchy red little bumps especially on the elbow and areas where the skin naturally creases. Allergic reaction to the tanning lotion may also cause the bumps on your elbow.

Psoriasis on Elbow Area.

Psoriasis turns your skin cells into Type A overachievers. They grow about five times faster than normal skin cells. And your body can’t keep up. The old ones pile up instead of sloughing off, making thick, flaky, itchy patches.

Researchers think something sets off your immune system. The exact reason is a mystery. But it’s likely a combination of genetics and triggers.

If you’ve got the right combination of genes, something can turn psoriasis “on” or start a flare.

Skin injury: A cut, scrape, bug bite, infection, bad sunburn, or even too much scratching can trigger the condition.

Infections: Strep infections, in particular, are linked with guttate psoriasis, which looks like small, red drops. Kids will often have strep throat before their first flare. Respiratory infection such as a cold, the flu or pneumonia.

HIV:  Psoriasis usually is worse in the beginning stages of the disease, but then it gets better after you start certain treatments.

Eczema bumps on Elbows

Atopic demartitis (which is often called eczema) is an itchy, red rash. It can appear all over the body. Many people have it on their elbows or behind their knees. Babies often have eczema on the face, especially the cheeks and chin. They can also have it on the scalp, trunk (chest and back), and outer arms and legs.

Children and adults tend to have eczema on the neck, wrists, and ankles, and in areas that bend, like the inner elbow and knee. People with eczema are usually diagnosed with it when they are babies or young children. Eczema symptoms often become less severe as children grow into adults.

For some people, eczema continues into adulthood. Less often, it can start in adulthood. The rash of eczema is different for each person. It may even look different or affect different parts of your body from time to time. It can be mild, moderate, or severe. Generally, people with eczema suffer from dry, sensitive skin.

Eczema is also known for its intense itch. The itch may be so bad that you scratch your skin until it bleeds, which can make your rash even worse, leading to even more inflammation and itching. This is called the itch-scratch cycle.

Although it is not known what exactly causes eczema, the following are thought to accelerate or make the condition to manifest.

  • Genetics
  • Abnormal function of the immune system
  • Environment
  • Activities that may cause skin to be more sensitive
  • Defects in the skin barrier that allow moisture out and germs in.

Lump on Elbow After a Fall.

An elbow lump is an abnormal protrusion or bump within the elbow joint or on the surface of the elbow. Elbow lumps can happen to anyone. Often, elbow lumps are the result of an injury, such as a blow to the elbow.

Elbow lumps may result from inflammation (swelling), poor healing of a broken bone, or a skin growth, such as a cyst or tumor. Inflammation of the elbow can result from tendinitis, bursitis, sports injury, sprains, strains, arthritis, or infections within the joint. Growths can be either benign or cancerous in nature.

Burstitis

Olecranon bursitisis inflammation of a small sac of fluid located on the tip of the elbow or knee. This inflammation can cause many problems in the elbow. Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa. In some cases, a direct blow or a fall onto the elbow can damage the bursa.

This usually causes bleeding into the bursa sac, because the blood vessels in the tissues that make up the bursa are damaged and torn. In the skin this would simply form a bruise, but in a bursa blood may actually fill the bursa sac. This causes the bursa to swell up like a rubber balloon filled with water.

The blood in the bursa is thought to cause an inflammatory reaction. The walls of the bursa may thicken and remain thickened and tender even after the blood has been absorbed by the body. This thickening and swelling of the bursa is referred to as olecranon bursitis.

Olecranon bursitis can also occur over a longer period of time. People who constantly put their elbows on a hard surface as part of their activities or job can repeatedly injure the bursa. This repeated injury can lead to irritation and thickening of the bursa over time. The chronic irritation leads to the same condition in the end: olecranon bursitis.

The olecranon bursa can also become infected. This may occur without any warning, or it may be caused by a small injury and infection of the skin over the bursa that spreads down into the bursa.

In this case, instead of blood or inflammatory fluid in the bursa, it becomes filled with pus. The area around the bursa becomes hot, red, and very tender.

Cancer Lump on Elbow Crease.

The exact symptoms of bone cancer will vary, depending on the size of the cancer and where it is in the body. Common symptoms include

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Problems with movement

The area around the bone tumour may be painful or tender. The pain is often worse at night. If the tumour is close to a nerve, you may have pain that travels along the nerve. And you may feel the pain in a different part of the body to where the tumour is.

If the cancer is forming around your elbow, then you might feel a lump around the elbow crease. It is therefore advisable to seek immediate medical attention in order to ascertain whether it is a normal lump or it is cancerous.

Dry Skin and Elbow Lumps.

People who have dry skin can often find rough, dry, red patches on their skin, and these patches are often itchy. Typical skin areas affected include arms, hands, lower legs, abdomen, and areas of friction such as ankles and soles. As skin dryness becomes more severe, cracks and fissures may evolve.

Symptoms and signs:

  • Painful lumps.
  • Dry skin.
  • Red patches.

Itchy Lumps on Elbow.

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is an intensely itchy skin disease. It causes clusters of small blisters and little bumps. It typically affects people in their 40s or 50s, but it can occur at any age. This lifelong condition affects more men than women.

DH is caused by an allergy to gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat and grains. When you have DH and eat food with gluten, the gluten combines with an antibody from the intestines. As the gluten and antibody circulate in the blood, they clog small blood vessels in the skin. This is what causes the rash.

Symptoms may include:

  • Clusters of itchy, small blisters and little bumps, mostly on the elbows, lower back, buttocks, knees, and back of the head.
  • Severe itching and burning.

Rash on Elbow

Rash is a symptom that causes the affected area of skin to turn red and blotchy and to swell. A rash may cause spots that are bumpy, scaly, flaky, or filled with pus. Rashes can vary in location, pattern, and extent and may occur in any area of the body. An elbow rash can have a variety of causes, and it may indicate something occurring around the elbow itself or suggest a systemic (body-wide) condition.

Contact dermatitis (skin inflammation) is caused by an adverse reaction to something that touches the skin, including chemicals found in detergent, soap or a fragrance. For example, you may develop a rash on your elbow when wearing a shirt that was washed with a particular detergent or treated with a chemical.

Exposure to metal can also cause elbow or the whole hand rash. Other forms of contact dermatitis include exposure to certain plants, such as poison oak or ivy, an animal bite, or an insect sting.

Raised Lump on Elbow Only

An elbow lump is an abnormal protrusion or bump within the elbow joint or on the surface of the elbow. Elbow lumps can happen to anyone. Often, elbow lumps are the result of an injury, such as a blow to the elbow.

Elbow lumps may result from inflammation (swelling), poor healing of a broken bone, or a skin growth, such as a cyst or tumor. Inflammation of the elbow can result from tendinitis, bursitis, sports injury, sprains, strains, arthritis, or infections within the joint. Growths can be either benign or cancerous in nature.

Small White Bumps on Elbow

In fact what people perceive as white bumps in some cases may be central plugs – that are filed with pus or other materials – on top of red bumps. Nevertheless, you may want to compare your symptoms with those of the following skin conditions when evaluating your specific case:

Keratosis pilaris: This is a common skin condition that gives the skin a sandpaper-like feel. It happens when dead skin cells do not fall off as they naturally do. When that happens, the skin protein called keratin plug the hair follicles leading to small goose bumps like rough bumps.

The area of skin affected by the bumps often gets dry and can get particularly itchy. The symptoms may worsen during winter months when humidity levels are usually at their lowest and the skin this tends to get drier.

Keratosis pilaris may affect individuals of any age but it tends to affect young children more.

See also:

How to Get Rid of Bumps on Elbows

Rub a banana peel onto your elbows

Rubbing a banana peel on the elbows in a circular motion with a banana peel to reduce dryness. As noted in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, bananas are a fruit rich in vitamin C (which aids in healing), and the peel has been scientifically shown to contain both antifungal and antibiotic components.

Exfoliate

Regular exfoliation is a great treatment for keratosis pilaris, which is a harmless yet bothersome condition that’s responsible for the “chicken skin” texture of your upper arms and elbows. (It can also appear in other places, like the thighs.)

Keratin, a type of protein that’s a building block for healthy skin, hair and nails, can build up in your pores, which plugs the hair follicles, causing bumps and ingrown hairs. Gently exfoliating in the shower helps soften the skin. Follow up with an over-the-counter lotion that contains lactic acid, which helps reduce keratin buildup.

What exfoliating creams can I use?

  • Asutra, Organic Exfoliating Body Scrub. The Body Scrub contains over 20 healing minerals found in sea salt that make it an excellent natural exfoliator and skin polisher  (Check price on Amazon)
  • Majestic Pure Sweet Orange Body Scrub  – Crafted with wonderful nourishing ingredients such as Sweet Orange Oil, Dead Sea Salt, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, and Coconut Oil (Check price on Amazon)

Moisturize

Milk is handy for a soothing soak. Thick moisturizing creams and petroleum jelly are the best products for a little post-shower attention, and some experts recommend at least two applications a day.

Other over-the-counter options are lotions containing urea, lactic acid, or alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids, which are good for fighting bumps. A very small amount of jojoba oil, massaged into dry elbows or knees, will closely mimic the body’s own natural moisturizers.

Organic Shea Butter Moisturiser UV Protection For All Skin Types

One of our favourites is Cetaphil moisturizing cream for dry and sensitive skin (You can find it on Amazon)

Consult a Doctor

Considering the commonness of dry elbows and all of the possible causes, it seems as if you could try home and over-the-counter remedies forever. In certain cases, though, a trip to the pharmacy just won’t cut it.

The elbows are common prey for psoriasis, though many people incorrectly assume it’s just a case of dryness.

Psoriasis is characterized most often by patches of raised red skin topped off with shiny scales, which can ooze, crust or bleed if they’re picked or irritated.

Elbows are an especially painful area because bending and moving affected skin can further irritate the rash, and psoriasis sometimes causes joint pain (psoriatic arthritis) in affected areas.

Sources and references:

  1. Hopkin’s Medicine: /dermatitis_herpetiformis
  2. Healthgrades: elbow-rash

Itchy Belly Button Meaning, Causes, Treatment, Rash Around Belly Button

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Itchy Belly Button Meaning, Causes, Treatment, Rash Around Belly Button

What causes an itchy belly button? The belly button also known as navel is the remnant of umbilical cord. It is that central scar that forms at the base of umbilical cord once it falls off. Many times the navel may become itchy and discomforting.

There are many things that could cause the belly button to itch including yeast infection, eczema, hives, contact dermatitis from piercing, lotions and soaps, or the stretching of skin in pregnancy. Another possible cause may be an infection by bacteria.

Itchy belly button skin
Itchy belly button skin

Some people who have umbilical hernia may experience itching. Treatment is based on the cause of the itching. This article will provide the most common causes that can cause belly button infections and the remedies as well.

What Does an Itchy Bellybutton Mean?

When your belly button becomes itchy it means that you feel a tingly sensation in the navel, it may also be tender and sore and this may warrant you to scratch the area of soreness.

What Causes an Itchy Bellybutton/ Navel?

An itchy navel can be caused by many things, and the different causes will also give rise to the methods of treating the itch.

1. Belly button infection.

The navel or belly button tract can have an infection. Foreign substances such as lint that detached from clothes and body hair could enter the umbilicus thereby causing inflammation or swelling. An infection may also occur, and it is mainly accompanied by foul odour, itching, and fluid coming out of that umbilicus canal.

Since the belly button is deep, damp and dark, it is a favourable breeding ground for yeast and bacteria. Sweat, soap and other substances deposited in the navel cavity can aid bacterial growth and cause an infection.

Its symptoms are redness, mild pain, and green or gray discharge. A yeast infection in the belly button occurs as a result of overgrowth of yeasts that leads to symptoms like redness, swelling and discharge.

Other causes and contributing factors that may be responsible for belly button infections include poor hygiene habits, surgery involving the belly button, belly button piercing, diabetes, sebaceous cysts, exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) sunrays, and obesity.

2. Rash around belly button

Fungal Infection

The fungal infection is caused by the yeast Candida. The risk factors that contribute towards this infection include:

  • regular touching
  • bad hygiene
  • moist skin
  • obesity

The symptoms of a fungal infection around the belly button are:

  • a red, smelly, itchy, tender and mildly painful belly button surrounded byflaky skin and pus-filled blisters (pustules)
  • dark, yellow or white discharge or occasional bleeding

Another cause for discharge around the navel is a bacterial Infection.

It is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (staph) or Streptococcus pyogenes (strep)

  • The causes of this bacteria on the belly button are:
  • Bad hygiene
  • Obesity
  • Scratching or rubbing, a cut
  • Piercing, A sebaceous cyst
  • A foreign object, steroids or immunosuppressant drugs (in Crohn’s disease)
  • A wound after surgery or laparoscopy

Symptoms of a bacterial infection include:

  • Folliculitis:red, itchy bumps with occasional white centers filled with pus
  • Cellulitis:red, thick, tender and warm skin in and around the navel, possibly mild   fever
  • Abscess:a soft lump up to a size of a golf ball, occasionally draining/oozing

3. Itchy rash around belly button.

Bacterial infections: Different types of bacteria can infect the belly button and result in soreness, redness, and pain along with discharge of white matter or bleeding. People with severe instances of bacterial infection of the belly button may suffer from nausea and vomiting.

  • Belly button rash may also be caused by fungal infections which typically arise if the belly button remains moist.
  • Bathing in polluted or impure water and/or touching the belly button with dirty or unwashed hands can increase the risk to pathogenic infections and eventual formation of belly button rash.
  • Allergic reactions:Belly button rash can also form due to exposure to varied allergens. Some people tend to have extra sensitive skin and can suffer from allergic reactions after contact with metals such as nickel, etc., or with foreign matter such as a new laundry detergent or a new skin cream. Contact dermatitis is the most common type of belly button rash that develops due to allergic reactions. Patients need to consult a dermatologist or a skin specialist for diagnosis and treatment of this belly button rash. Avoiding contact with allergic agents is the best way to prevent the development of belly button rashes.
  • Psoriasis:It is a skin condition characterized by formation of discomforting, prickly, itchy, red patches on the skin. Such abnormal patches can be thick or thin. Mild cases of psoriasis-associated thin belly button rash-patches can be treated with varied creams. Thick patches of belly button rash are treated with topical medications containing vitamin D and anti-inflammatory content. Doctors may also sometimes prescribe injections to treat the condition.

4. Infected navel piercing.

Another common cause of belly button rash/infection is piercing of the navel, typically carried out as a fashion statement. Incorrect aftercare or improper piercing of the belly button can make it vulnerable to infections.

Additionally, lack of proper care of the wound after piercing can cause a potential breeding ground for bacteria which would subsequently cause infection characterized by severe itching. An infected belly button due to piercing will initially cause bleeding and then discharge of pus. Patients are also most likely to experience pain in the region.

5. During pregnancy, early, late; sign of pregnancy and after delivery.

Itching belly button during pregnancy

Although a number of women report experiencing an itchy belly button prior to finding out that they were expectant; it is not a definitive way of testing for pregnancy. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, or are trying to get pregnant, using a pregnancy test would provide a more concrete answer.

An itchy belly especially during pregnancy may be caused by stretching of skin. When the skin expands, it is deprived of moisture. Usually dry skin can feel itchy and quite uncomfortable. The butt may also have similar experience if it is expanding alongside the belly. Moisturizing the skin using gentle products can help relieve the itching. An individual should refrain from scratching the itching belly button because it could open it for bacterial infection.

Additionally, the itchiness around the bellybutton should cease after pregnancy. If the itchiness (oftentimes accompanied by redness and soreness) persists. It is prudent to see a healthcare provider immediately.

6. Discharge from belly button

The belly button can easily become infected by Candida, or other fungi – it is just the sort of warm, moist crevice that fungi like. If you have a fungal infection the belly button will look red, and the redness may extend to the surrounding skin for a few millimetres. It may be itchy.

Bacteria may also infect the belly button, often taking advantage of the damage already done by the fungi. This leads to scabbing and a yellowish discharge.

7. During period.

Pain in the bellybutton during a woman’s monthly period is caused by Pemphigoid Gestationis. Pemphigoid Gestationis is a rare skin blistering disorder that occurs in pregnant women. It usually starts in pregnancy but can also come back in women when they take oral contraceptive therapy or have their periods for some time after the pregnancy.
Female hormones (particularly oestrogen) are thought to aggravate the reaction and this may be why it starts during the stage in pregnancy when oestrogen levels rise. It may come back in further pregnancies and also may also come back in some women who take oral contraceptive therapy or with their periods following pregnancy, but later on there is usually no problem.

8. Itches After Cleaning.

The belly button can feel itchy and even tingly at times after cleaning. This may be caused by the cleaning agent you have used to clean the area. It is highly discouraged to use alcohol or any alcohol based product to clean the area as this may cause severe itchiness or even an infection.

The area can also feel itchy if you do not make sure that it is completely dry after washing. It is imperative to make sure the area is dry after cleaning to avoid making it a breeding ground for bacteria.

9. Belly button itching After Eating.

The area in and around the belly button can itch after eating. This is mostly after one has overeaten. The skin around the stomach stretches as a result of your stomach expanding in order to accommodate the excess food you have consume.

10. Crust and Scabbing.

These are caused by bacterial infection around the belly button. As part of the healing process of the infection, a scab is formed where the infection had formed.

Many times the scab or crust causes an itchy and tingly sensation around the area. It is highly discouraged to itch the area as the scab will come off, thus delaying the healing process.

11. Hernia.

Umbilical or paraumbilical hernia is a protrusion of the small intestine between the muscles in or near the belly button.

Risk factors causing the umbilical hernia are;  pregnancy, obesity, persistent coughing, abdominal surgery, a large abdominal tumor, accumulation of the fluid in the abdomen in liver or kidney disease (ascites)

Symptoms: a soft bulge–of the skin color, red, grey or blue and up to few inches big–near the belly button; coughing and straining can cause discomfort, pressure, pain, tingly feeling or burning feeling in and around the belly button.

12. Urinary Tract Infection.

Urinary tract infections in children can present with pain around the belly button, frequent urination and cloudy and smelly urine.

Red Itchy Bellybutton.

The most common symptom of a fungal infection in the belly button is discharge and pain. The most common cause of pain and discharge in the belly button is due to candida. Candida albicans thrives in warm, moist areas such as the urinary tract, mouth, and nose as well as the belly button. An overgrowth of fungus results in a red, swollen belly button and discharge. Scratching the infected area may cause bleeding and further aggravation.

Additionally, smelly belly button with a curd-like discharge may also be due to infection following a surgical procedure. The most common cause is tubal ligation. This causes redness, itchiness, swelling and pain in the navel.

Itchy Belly Button Superstitions and Old Wives Tales.

Many old wives tales state that if your belly button itches constantly the there is a good chance that you are pregnant. While this may provide hope for women who are hoping to get pregnant, it is not a scientifically proven symptom of pregnancy.

Relief and Treatment for Belly Button Itch.

There are various methods of treating belly button infections depending on the cause.

  1. Those suffering with belly button discharge and odour resulting from patent urachus can find relief through surgery. This reduces the risk of urinary tract infections, cancer of the urachal tube and leaking urine.
  2. Belly button secretions resulting from diabetes may be avoided through control of blood sugar levels. Odour and discharge resulting from bacterial infections may be treated by washing the infected area with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap, and drying the navel thoroughly.
  3. An antibacterial topical cream applied after washing the area may solve the problem of an infected belly button. Antifungal creams and various foam treatments may help control fungal infections.

Home Remedies for Belly Button Itch.

  1. Tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil is an effective natural remedy for belly button infection. With antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, it can help in treating yeast or bacterial infections of belly button. We highly recommend Essential Oil Labs Tea Tree Oil (Check price on Amazon)

  1. Salt Water.

Salt is very effective in treating the infection. It helps in reducing the moisture problem and ultimately reduces the problem. Prepare a mixture of salt and warm water and put a few drops of it around the belly button. This remedy improves the blood circulation and prevents the growth of infection causing organisms.

  1. Aloe vera gel.

Aloe vera is used to treat the problem of belly button infection. It helps in reducing the problem of itching and inflammation very effectively. Apply some fresh gel over the belly button 3 to 4 times in a day to reduce the problem. A great choice would be organic cold cressed Aloe Vera (Check price on Amazon)

  1. Tumeric paste.

The anti septic and healing properties of turmeric are used to treat the belly button infection. Turmeric reduces the pain, itching and rashes. Not only this, the anti inflammatory properties prevent inflammation and reduce the severity. Apply a paste of turmeric powder over the belly button to get relief.

  1. Neem Oil.

Neem is rich in anti bacterial, anti viral and anti fungal properties and effective stops the growth of infection causing organisms. The use of neem oil is also very effective in reducing the problem of itching and pain. Just apply a few drops of it around your belly button to treat the problem completely.

Resources:

Medguidance: smelly-belly-button.html/

Healthy Life Med: /itchy-belly-button/

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