What is Keratosis pilaris? And How can Keratosis pilaris be treated?

What is Keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a very common skin condition and it usually affects 50-70% of adolescents and approximately 40% of adults. Keratosis means that there is too much of Keratin (dead layer of skin) while pilaris means hair. In Keratosis pilaris, many small horny plugs can be seen blocking the hair follicle on the upper and outer parts of the arms and thighs. This can looks like goose bumps but feels slightly rough.

 This can look like goose bumps but feels slightly rough. Keratosis pilaris appears when extra keratin accumulates in the hair follicles. This usually starts in childhood and becomes more obvious during adolescence and in adulthood. For reasons not fully understood the condition seems to be better in the summer than in the winter perhaps because in winter the skin often gets dry while in summer the sweat makes it less dry. It usually seen in patients with dry skin. 

What are the symptoms of Keratosis pilaris (KP)?

The skin feels rough, dry and appears as though it has permanent goose bumps. Occasionally keratosis pilaris is itchy. If you’ve contracted a skin condition that seems like acne or small pimples treatments , but doesn’t respond to the usual treatments, you may very well have keratosis pilaris.It is not contagious. 

How can Keratosis pilaris be treated?

This condition is harmless, so treatment is indicated if you have symptoms or the appearance of the skin bothers you. A dermatologist can create a treatment plan that addresses your concern. A moisturizing cream can soothe and improves itching. Creams containing various ingredients like salicylic acid, lactic acid and/or urea, retinol help in exfoliation and will make your skin smooth and improvement in texture. Other treatments like chemical peeling, laser, and micro-dermabrasion can be helpful depending upon your condition. 

Self-care:

 Keratosis pilaris often flares when the skin becomes dry. Applying moisturizer can prevent dry skin. Apply it to the damp skin within 5 minutes of bathing. Apply it in between liberally when your skin feels dry. 

 Exfoliate gently: When you exfoliate your skin, you remove the dead skin cells from the surface. You can slough off these dead cells gently with a loofah or rough washcloth. Avoid scrubbing your skin, which tends to irritate the skin and worsen keratosis pilaris

Dr Alok Kumar Sahoo

MBBS, MD(AIIMS, New Delhi)