Red Bumps On Legs

Get smooth legs for summer

Spider veins, cellulite, razor bumps and other common concerns aren’t easy to hide during swimsuit and mini-skirt season. For ways to diminish their appearance, we rang up dermatologists Nicole Rogers and Lisa Donofrio.

Cellulite hider

It isn’t fat itself that causes cellulite, Rogers said. The skim dimpling is made by the mesh-like fibrous connections (fibrous septae) that hold fat in place. Exercise can help, but even the fittest among us can have cellulite. So the best way to reduce its appearance, Rogers said, is through simple tissue trauma. The Elixer Laser, used in her office at Old Metairie Dermatology, breaks up fat through radio frequency. “It creates a smoothing appearance and can be used on various parts of the body: thighs, love handles and even in the jowl area.” Rogers said to be wary of over-the-counter products that claim to eliminate cellulite. “Sure, they will take your money, but they don’t work,” she said. Instead opt for a self-tanner to camouflage the problem. Look for one that contains dihydroxyacetone as the active ingredient, such as MicroMist Tanning by Neutrogena. And don’t forget to lather on the sunblock. “Don’t mistake self-tanner for an SPF,” she said. “Instead use self-tanner as a nighttime moisturizer.” For those who prefer gradual color, Rogers recommends Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer.

Concealed spiders

Both genetics and job requirements can lead to spider veins, those tangled groups of tiny blood vessels visible right under the skin. Standing for long hours can put pressure on the valves and veins. Both Rogers and Donofrio, associate clinical professor at Tulane and Yale universities, recommend compression hose for patients who are often on their feet. “Yes, old ladies use them, but younger people can benefit as well,” Rogers said. Donofrio also recommends elevating the legs when you have the opportunity. “This will keep them from dilating more.” Once spider veins have developed, a typical treatment is to inject Polidocanol, which essentially blanches the vein immediately and dissolves it in a matter of a week or two. Much like cellulite, there is no effective treatment that can be purchased over the counter, but, again, self-tanners can help conceal. For those skeptical of self-tanners, Donofrio recommends trying a spray-on product like Airbrush Legs by Sally Hansen. “It looks natural,” she said.

Random red bumps on legs for years?

Serendipity Asked: Random red bumps on legs for years?

I have these bumps on my legs that start out kind of pink, small and hard then grow to about the size of a bite after a few months. None have ever completely gone away, they turn red, then skin colored before they flatten out a bit. It randomly started about five years ago. Its not razor burn, acne or ingrown hairs. There is no puss or liquid if I squeeze them, they seem pretty solid. Any ideas?

Field guide to clinical dermatology

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Legs Up & Laughing