What Is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris is a common skin condition made up of small bumps found on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks and sometimes on the face and mistaken for acne. It occurs when keratin forms hard plugs within hair follicles. It often appears red in color and feels very rough and doesn’t require any serious treatment. Tests aren’t needed to diagnose the condition, as your doctor can usually tell by looking at your skin.

Also known as Chicken Skin, Keratosis Pilaris affects 50% of the world’s population. People with conditions like Atopic Dermatitis are more likely to have Keratosis Pilaris as well as people with very dry skin. It is harmless and can be treated by using skin creams and moisturizing lotions. Improvements can take a long time and bumps are likely to come back.

As an adult, the condition slowly starts to fade. If the condition still irritates your skin, your doctor can prescribe a lotion that would be best for you. You should avoid picking at the bumps as it only worsens your skin and even leads to scarring. Scrubbing is also not recommended as it leads to more irritated and red skin.

Future content on this website will show you more information about Keratosis Pilaris and how you can help treat the condition.

Human skin tends to be sensitive and requires care for maintenance. Different diseases affect human skin. Keratosis Pilaris is a disease in which bumps appear on the skin which is normally white in color. But sometimes the bumps are also red in color. The bumps make the skin harder, rough and smooth. It is a harmless disease which does not cause pain or itching to the person. The bumps normally affect the arms, thighs and top of the legs. Keratosis Pilaris is also called “chicken skin.”

Keratosis Pilaris is normally a non-detrimental disease but in case of red bumps and swelling on the skin, one must consult the doctor immediately. The major victims of the disease are teens and children. However, the bumps disappear as time passes. Keratosis Pilaris is widely common in people with dry skin as dry skin has a higher tendency to get affected by the disease.


Causes of the disease:

Keratosis Pilaris is caused due to enrichment of keratin in your skin which develops a blockade of hair follicles and thus the bumps appear. Medical sciences do not know exactly the reason behind the build-up of keratin.


Ways to cure the disease:

Although it is a harmless disease which does not cause pain or itching to the patient, it is best to:

  • Avoid scratching your skin as it will make bumps look terrible and painful.
  • Make use of moisturizers which is helpful as it will help you to reduce the bumps and make your skin smother.
  • Avoid contact with hot water when in the bath or shower.
  • Make use of soap or a skin cleanser that enriches in oil.
  • Use special moisturisers, which is good especially in winter, because winter is the most difficult season for KP patients.

Conclusion:

In the end it can be easily said that Keratosis Pilaris is not a harmful disease and it can be better if sufficient care is taken.

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