Red dots on your skin can range from “meh” to “medical attention needed.” Here’s how to tell the difference—and what to do next.

Petechiae are tiny, flat red spots from burst capillaries. A hard sneeze or new meds might cause them, but if they’re everywhere, your platelets could be waving a red flag. Cherry angiomas? Just little blood vessel bundles—harmless but stubborn.

Trapped sweat triggers heat rash (itchy dots in folds), while allergies paint splotches from head to toe. Folliculitis (bumpy, red hair follicles) and cellulitis (tender, spreading redness) mean germs crashed the party—time for antibiotics.

Kids often get impetigo, with honey-colored crusts that beg for a doctor’s note. Vasculitis (inflamed vessels) and hemangiomas (birthmarks) are rarer but need a pro’s eye.

Home helpers: Aloe vera for cooling, coconut oil for healing, and dandelion tea for a gentle detox. But if dots grow, blister, or come with fever, swap Google for a doctor’s office—stat.

Your skin’s talking. Make sure you’re listening!