Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a skin problem in which dead skin cells from the upper layer of your skin plug up the hair follicles in your skin, causing little bumps.

• Keratosis pilaris is common and harmless

• It usually happens in cold weather and gets better in summer

• Your skin may feel rough because of the bumps

• Doctors can treat the itching or redness of keratosis pilaris using skin lotions or laser treatments

Doctors aren't sure what causes keratosis pilaris, but heredity may play a role. It doesn't seem to be an allergic or immune system disorder.

People with atopic dermatitis are more likely to have keratosis pilaris.

Symptoms of keratosis pilaris include:

• Small bumps that are skin-colored or red, usually on the upper arms, thighs, and bottom, sometimes on your face

• Sometimes, plugs in the middle of the bumps that look like pimples

• Redness and itching of your skin

Keratosis Pilaris

Image

Image provided by Thomas Habif, MD.

Doctors can tell you have keratosis pilaris by examining your skin.

Most of the time, keratosis pilaris doesn't need treatment. If itching or redness bothers you, doctors can treat it using:

• Skin moisturizers with glycolic or lactic acid

• Sometimes, laser treatments to lessen the redness