Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a genetic skin condition marked by rough, red bumps. These bumps are actually dead skin cells, caused by a buildup of keratin – a skin protein – which traps hair follicles. This forms hard clogs, preventing hair from emerging through the pores and creating ingrown hairs.

It is very common in adults and adolescents, but it also appears on children. This disease can be exacerbated in cold, dry weather. However, it is not contagious.

Symptoms

The small red bumps feel rough, like sandpaper. Despite the rough texture, the bumps are usually not itchy, but some forms of keratosis pilaris can create inflamed and irritated bumps. They appear in different colors, including flesh-color, white, red, pinkish purple (on fair skin), and brownish black (on dark skin). You may also see slight pinkness around some bumps.

The affected skin resembles the skin of a plucked chicken, and is thus sometimes called “chicken skin.” Keratosis pilaris becomes more noticeable in winter or a dry climate.

Usually this skin disease appears on the back and arms. Other commonly affected areas are the thighs, hands, legs, and cheeks. Children may have these bumps on their cheeks.

What can I do?

It frequently improves by age 30, but it can continue into later adulthood.

Topical creams can reduce the bumps and redness but the inflammation will likely reappear. Exfoliation unclogs pores, but it may not be a permanent solution. Make sure to avoid extremely hot baths and shower. Use a mild soap or cleanser.

Furthermore, dryness can aggravate the bumps, so it is important to keep the affected area lubricated. Most moisturizing creams used to treat keratosis pilaris contain urea or lactic acid. For best results, apply your moisturizer after shower when your skin is still damp. Gently massage it into your skin at least 2 or 2 times a day.

Should I seek medical care?

Keratosis pilaris is a harmless skin condition, and treatment is usually not essential. However, if the dryness, itchiness, or appearance of the affected skin is bothersome, consult your GP or a dermatologist for tailored advice. They may recommend moisturisers, keratolytic creams, or other supportive treatments to help improve the skin texture.

Treatment

There is no cure for keratosis pilaris, but treatments may help improve the appearance and texture of the skin. Regular use of emollients helps soften the bumps. Creams containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, or urea may temporarily improve roughness.

Your GP or dermatologist may also recommend topical retinoids to reduce redness and scaling. Laser treatments and other cosmetic procedures are available privately, but they are not routinely offered on the NHS due to limited evidence of long-term benefit.