Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition in which a protein in the skin called keratin forms hard plugs within hair follicles.
Keratosis pilaris is harmless does not get worse over time, and often disappears with age. It is more common in patients who have very dry skin, or who have atopic dermatitis (eczema) and often runs in families.
In mild cases, small bumps, similar in appearance to “goose bumps,” are found on the backs of the upper arms. The texture is that of very coarse sandpaper.
Bumps may also appear on the buttocks and thighs. Less commonly, bumps appear on the face and may be mistaken for acne.
Individual bumps are small, skin-coloured papules that form within hair openings (follicles). The condition is generally worse in winter and often clears in the summer.
Symptoms
* Fine, bumpy texture to skin over the outer upper arm and thigh or elsewhere
* Skin-colored bumps the size of a grain of sand
* Slight pinkness may be seen around some bumps
Signs and tests
Physical examination is usually all that is needed for your therapist or healthcare provider to make this diagnosis. Testing is usually not necessary.
Treatment
Bioglycolic body scrub or Bioglycolic oily skin wash by Jan Marini has been successful in the treatment of Keratosis Pilaris with improvement seen in only a cople of weeks. However it is important to mouisurise daily and to use sun protection. Recommended system
* Step one Resurfacing Body Scrub or oily skin cleansing gel depending on severity
* Step two Hand and Body lotion
* Step three Antioxidant Body Block SPF30
Moisturising lotions are often soothing and may help the appearance of the skin. Skin creams with medications containing urea, lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid. Your GP may recommend Tretinoin or vitamin D. However, improvement often takes months and the bumps are likely to come back. It is important to note that Keratosis pilaris may fade slowly with age.
