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Suggest Treatment For Red Blotches On Arms

Posted on Mon, 11 May 2015

Question: Hi -- 12 days ago I submitted question about a rash on my arm. I wanted to update you and get additional feedback from you no calling my doctor tomorrow. please see previous posts and attached photos for background info. it's been almost 2 weeks. initially the topical steroid cream I was prescribed seemed to be working. the rash on my left arm, cleared up and seemed to be ok. then it began to again and now I am left with all of these little skin bruises and red spots.

And now, just within the past 2-3 days, a similar rash has broken out on my right arm. it started near the bend in the elbow, but now has progressed all the way down my arm. It is very red and itchy and has not yet developed blisters but seems to be following the same progression that the previous rash had please let me know what you think. Thank you

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Eczematous dermatitis and senile pupura

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Welcome back. Thank you for writing to us.

I have answered your previous query too..

The new rash on your other arm is the same type of rash (i.e eczematous dermatitis) that you previously developed on your left arm and therefore I suggest you to follow the same treatment protocol i.e a moisturizing cream along with a topical potent steroid.

You skin is extremely dry and therefore you must continue with a moisturizer after the rash resolves to prevent a recurrence.

These red blotches on your left arm are actually purpuric spots (senile purpura).
They are due to fragility of capillary walls as the skin ages and must have formed as a result of capillary wall rupture on scratching of your skin. Don't worry about these. They would resolve within a few days.
You may add an Oral Vitamin C supplement once daily for faster resolution.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (6 hours later)

thank you for your response -- what type of moisturizer would you recommend for the dry skin? I'm currently using a moisturizer that is high in vitamin E and my skin just seems to drink it in. is there a particular brand or formula that works best for very dry skin?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Ammonium lactate Or Urea based moisturizer

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

I would suggest an 10%- 12% ammonium lactate based moisturizer (Am lactin) Or a 10% - 20% Urea based moisturizer for dry skin of arms and legs.

These are not for face.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (3 hours later)

are these over the counter? if so, is there a brand name? thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Either Ammonium lactate Or Urea based moisturizing lotion

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Ammonium lactate 12% lotion is available online by the name of Amlactin.

You may check with your local drug store if they have a similar OTC brand containing 10% -12% Ammonium lactate in a lotion form Or a lotion containing 10% Or 20% Urea in a lotion form.

Either of these would be good for your skin. Use only on arms and legs. Not on face.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (36 minutes later)

thank you!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (4 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are welcome

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Thank you for writing to us

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar