March 20, 2024

What is keratosis pilaris and what are its symptoms?

Keratosis pilaris (also known as Keratosis Follicularis, Lichen Planus Pilar and Keratosis Follicularis) is a harmless, non-contagious skin condition that causes dry, rough patches and small bumps on some parts of the body such as: of the arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks.

How is keratosis pilaris caused?

Keratosis pilaris results from the buildup of keratin , a hard protein that protects the skin from harmful substances and infections. Keratin blocks the opening of hair follicles, causing rough, bumpy patches on the skin, which is why keratosis pilaris is commonly called "goosebumps."

This genetic condition particularly affects young people. The first symptoms of keratosis pilaris appear during childhood and are very common in adolescents.

What are the symptoms of keratosis pilaris?

Although this condition can occur in young people, keratosis pilaris could manifest at any age and the symptoms that occur are:

Tiny painless lumps on your upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks.
Dry, rough skin in bumpy areas.
Worsening when seasonal changes cause low humidity and dry skin.
Sandpaper-like bumps that look like goosebumps.

If these symptoms become visible in other parts of the body, it is advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist. Also, it is important to keep in mind that keratosis pilaris can cause self-esteem problems and, what begins as a cosmetic condition, can become a psychological disorder.

How can Keratosis Pilaris be treated?

Although there is no cure as such for this condition, you can help relieve the symptoms with a correct skin care routine. It is important that you visit a dermatologist who, according to your skin type, can determine the best products for you, but those that are used regularly are:

Moisturizing lotions to soften the skin and help it look better.
Skin creams containing urea, lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, tretinoin, or vitamin D.
Steroid creams to reduce redness.
Gentle exfoliants that help loosen and remove comedones that have formed.
Cleaning once or twice a day.

Other options that can help improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris are diet, avoiding foods that trigger allergies such as gluten, drinking at least two liters of water per day and avoiding unhealthy options such as sugary drinks and sparkling wines.

We recommend that you always have professional help for skin care issues, using any type of products or the wrong active ingredients can cause your condition to worsen.

Sources
Keratosis pilaris, indications
Keratosis pilaris
Keratosis pilaris symptoms
Diagnoses keratosis pilaris

Carolina Cardona Valencia, Social Communicator
For Satori Beauty