What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Do you have patches of small red and white bumps along your thighs, back, or buttocks? Are your upper arms dotted with tiny, rough bumps, smaller than a pinhead? You are not alone.

Keratosis Pilaris (KP) does not discriminate by race — 50% or more of the world’s populated are estimated to have KP in one form or another, although most people are not aware of it or its treatments. There is no cure for Keratosis Pilaris, but with simple, affordable, and effective treatments, Keratosis Pilaris can be effectively controlled.

While KP is physically harmless, it is the appearance of these benign, pimple-like bumps which lends itself to the name “chicken skin.” This common condition is often confused with allergies, acne, or eczema, but it is not related to those skin conditions. Although you may be more susceptible to develop Keratosis Pilaris if you have skin allergies or a Vitamin A deficiency, it is hereditary, and is passed by way of a single gene from either parent. If both parents have KP, the chance of their child developing it is high.

The upper arms and thighs are the typical areas most affected by KP, followed by the back, cheeks, and buttocks. Keratosis Pilaris can be present almost anywhere on your body except for the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. Fortunately, KP diminishes with age. Studies estimate that 51% of cases appear in the first decade of life, 35% in the second, 12% in the third, and 2% in the fourth.

When our body’s process for building up the epidermis, or outer-most layer of skin, “keratinization,” is performed too much, too often, or in the wrong areas, excess skin can collect around the hair follicles. This creates a clogged pore or miniature cone, much like a small pimple.

The inflammation of keratin that is trapped under extra skin and debris is what causes the reddish, or sometimes brownish, KP bumps. Occasionally, a small hair can be seen beneath the bump, or the buildup can entrap the hair in the follicle, leading to an unsightly, irritated bump filled with pus, often confusing this condition with acne or bacterial folliculitis.

The best way to combat minor outbreaks is keeping your skin surface clean and moisturized, but since climate changes, times of low humidity, and the seasons can create more raised and reddish bumps than you may be comfortable with, we recommend advanced regimens and treatments to reduce the appearance of Keratosis Pilaris.

While there is no real “cure” for this particular skin condition, with our help, you can effectively treat and reduce the bumps associated with Keratosis Pilaris.