foliculitis

I have pimples on my upper arms and have had them for years. They get pretty bad when I exercise more despite keeping the areas clean. I have been told that is foliculitis, but that there is nothing to help this condition. Anyone else with this problem and any ideas? I'm getting married in a few months and I would like my arms to look nice.

Ok, I'm just a first year medical student... but I'll try to help :)  Did a doctor tell you it was an infection?  It could just be keratosis pilaris, which is super common in people with light skin.  Here is a picture of folliculitis:  http://www.visualdxhealth.com/images/dx/webCh ild/folliculitis_28639_lg.jpg and here is a picture of keratosis pilaris:  http://www.planet-lepote.com/forum/richedit/u pload/2ka0e5b6ce7b.jpg

I have keratosis pilaris, and I used a lotion with alpha-hydroxy acid before my wedding to help keep it smooth.  It also helps to take lukewarm, not hot, showers and use a mild soap like Dove.  But if it's an infection, you should talk to your doctor about other treatment options.  I hope this helps!  Congrats on your wedding!

OK, I just saw that you're a nurse.  Nevermind!!!  I'm sure you know exactly what folliculitis looks like!!!  Sorry!

hi Becca

I think I have keratosis. also gets worse with sweat from exercising. this is just a new thing in the last 6 months. usually isnt too bad though.

what kinda cream can i use on it that has alpha hydroxy acid in it? can you give some examples?

thx

beccajmartin: It was just a friend who told me it was folliculitis. However, my arms definately look like keratosis. I get small white-heads but nothing like the first picture. I'll try the cream for sure, I remember seeing some that had alpha-hydroxy and I don't think they were that expensive. Thanks.

chelslaw: look in the drugstore for this cream, you don't need a prescription and I think most of the major brands carry some type of this cream.