Keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (commonly called chicken skin) is a skin condition that causes dry, rough skin patches with small bumps that resemble acne. Areas that most commonly develop keratosis pilaris are the arms and thighs. Keratosis pilaris isn't a serious skin condition with long-term health implications, but it can be a nuisance.

Keratosis pilaris causes

Many people do not know that they have keratosis pilaris until their dermatologist diagnoses the condition, which occurs in up to 35% of the general population. Keratosis pilaris is a condition that tends to improve with age, but is certainly seen in a number of adults. Like psoriasis it improves in the summer and flares in the winter. Much of the time dermatologists are able to extract a family history relating to the condition.

Although the cause of keratosis pilaris is unknown, it has been suggested that the condition may occur in association with genetic or other skin conditions. Experts observe that keratosis pilaris results from an overproduction of keratin, which fills up the follicular oriface (pore) and spills out the sides. Often, a trapped hair is found within the follicular oriface.

Keratosis pilaris treatment

People who suffer from the condition typically need a regular treatment regimen, or the condition will likely recur. Common cosmetic treatments like a chemical peel or photodynamic therapy may help temporarily, but are probably not going to offer a real solution. Dermatologists may recommend daily application of compounds or creams such as salicylic acid, urea, retinoids, and Tazarac cream. Emollients and moisturizers are important for controlling keratosis pilaris as well.

Other effective tretaments include lactic acid lotions ( Lac-Hydrin 12%, and Am-Lactin) and alpha hydroxy acid treatments (Glytone, and Neo-strata). Elidel and Protopic have been used off label, but this should only be in adults.

sources: Arnold R. Oppenheim, MD

Last modified 3 months ago