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Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a harmless skin condition characterised by the development of numerous small,rough bumps on the skin. The condition can occur anywhere from infancy into adulthood, but it is most prevalent during adolescence. Keratosis occurs more commonly in the following groups:
- Females
- People who are overweight
- People of Celtic origin
- People who have eczema and/or dry skin.
Keratosis pilaris is not connected to any serious disease or ill health and for most sufferers the condition subsides in adulthood.
The exact cause of keratosis pilaris is unknown but a genetic origin is likely as it has a tendency to run in families.
Signs and Symptoms
Keratosis pilaris causes numerous small bumps about the size of a grain of sand. These feel rough and look like permanent goosebumps. The bumps may be skin coloured, red or brown. Often a small coiled hair is noticeable within the bump.
The outer aspect of the upper arm is the area most commonly affected by the condition but it can also affect the thighs, face and buttocks and, less commonly, the forearms and upper back.
Keratosis pilaris is thought to be a disorder of the keratin cells (the sticky cells that line the hair follicle). Instead of exfoliating, these cells build up around the hair follicle.
The condition is usually more severe in winter and during periods of low humidity.
Treatment
There is no cure for keratosis pilaris but it can be effectively controlled. Treatment options include:
- Moisturising creams to soften the skin - creams that contain urea, salicytic acid and alphahydroxy acids may be most effective.
- Prescription creams or gels containing retinoids. However, these are not suitable for young children and pregnant women.
- Pulse dye laser - this may reduce the redness but not the roughness.
- Laser assisted hair removal.
- Exfoliating with pumice stone or a loofah.
- Using non-soap cleansers.
References
Anderson, K. N., Anderson, L. E. & Glanze, W. D. (Eds.) (2006) Mosby’s Medical, Nursing and Allied Health Dictionary. (6th ed.) St. Louis: The C.V. Mosby Company
DermNet NZ (2007) Keratosis Pilaris. New Zealand Dermatological Society Inc. http://dermnetnz.org/acne/keratosis-pilaris.html
McFarlane-Parrott, S. C. (2006) Keratosis Pilaris. The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Third Edition. Jacqueline. L. Longe, Editor. Farmington Hills, MI. Thomson Gale.
Last Reviewed – 14/11/07