Keratosis pilaris is a common follicular skin disorder characterized by the development of small, rough and acne-like bumps on the skin as a result of protein deposits in the openings of hair follicles. Keratosis pilaris, which is also known as 'chicken skin' or 'meat bumps' often appears on the skin surface of the back and arms (upper and lower). It can also appear on the thighs and other parts of the body such as tops of legs, flanks and buttocks.

Glabrous skin such as that of palms or soles of feet mostly remains unaffected by the condition. Keratosis pilaris on the face are often mistaken for acne, though it rarely affects the face.

Although Keratosis pilaris does not harm the skin, its goose flesh appearance can be quite frustrating and stressful. The condition commonly occurs in young children, but it can affect individuals at any age. It does not usually affect the overall health condition and therefore it can occur even in healthy persons.

The need for treatment is felt when the condition is of cosmetic concern. The treatment comprises self-care measures and medicated creams for application to the skin.

Signs and symptoms

Small and rough bumps resembling acne become apparent on the skin particularly in the areas like upper arms, legs or buttocks. These bumps or lesions do not hurt or cause itchy feeling. They turn into rough patches, making the skin look like a goose flesh and sandpaper. The color of the patches is similar to skin color. At times, they can turn reddish, causing inflammation.

Bumps appearing on the face look like acne. However, they can be distinguished from pustular acne on the basis of their small size and association with dry and chapped skin.

Keratosis pillarist on the face may result in scaring, unlike other parts of the body.

Causes of Keratosis pilaris

The accumulation of keratin (a hard protein which keeps the skin intact from harmful substances and prevents infection) in the openings of hair follicles leads to Keratosis pilaris.

Horny plug, formed by keratin causes blockage of the openings of hair follicles in the skin. The plugs, which appear in large, number leads to formation of rough patches, turning the skin bumpy.

The reason for keratin buildup is not known. But it is believed to be associated with genetic conditions or other skin disorders like ichthyosis vulgaris or atopic dermatitis. The dry skin may aggravate the condition.

When to see a doctor?

Keratosis pilaris is not considered as a serious illness and that it hardly requires treatment. It disappears on its own in most of the cases. However, if you were bothered about the look of your skin, you would better go to your family doctor or dermatologist (skin specialist) to seek advice. Your doctor will diagnose your condition by examining your skin and horny plugs.

Treatment of Keratosis pilaris

No treatment can be generalized for overcoming Keratosis pilaris. However, it is possible to soften the keratin deposits to some extent with the help of some help-care measures and medicated creams.

Ammonium lactate: Your doctor may prescribe Ammonium lactate (Lac-Hydrin) cream or lotion for application to the affected skin. Ammonium lactate smoothens the skin besides softening the keratin plugs. However, it can lessen redness, caused by keratosis pilaris.

Urea: Urea such as Carmol or Keralac is another prescription medication, which can make the dry and rough skin moisturized and soft besides loosening and removing the dead skin cells. It can, however, turn skin reddish and cause stinging and irritation.

Topical corticosteroids: These anti-inflammatory medicines cause suppression of the immune system for decreasing the cell turnover.

Corticosteroid ointments having low-potency are usually prescribed for application to the sensitive areas like face, to treat widespread patches. Corticosteroid can be prescribed for a short-term to bring temporary relief because long-term treatment with this drug may result in many side effects.

Topical retinoids: Retinoids, which are extracted from vitamin A, act to promote cell turn over and prevent hair follicles from being plugged. Retinoids may bring effective results, but they may lead to irritation, dryness, redness and peeling in the skin.

Tretinoin (such as Retin-A Micro and Avita) and tazarotene such as Tazorac can be used as topical retinoids.

Regular use of medication may enhance your skin's look, but the condition may recur once you stop the.

In some cases Keratosis pilaris may continue to persist for years irrespective of medical treatment.

Self-care

It may be difficult to ensure effective cure of Keratosis pilaris with self-care measures, but it may be possible to improve the skin appearance with such measures. Here are some self-help times to improve your skin appearance:

Gently wash the affected areas of your skin while taking a bath. No pick a towel to gently pat your skin dry leaving some moisture on the skin. Avoid rubbing with towel as it takes out all the moistures.

Next, use moisturizing lotion or lubricating cream on your skin no matter it has some moisture from bathing. Use a moisturizer containing urea or propylene glycol and chemicals that are needed to keep your skin soft.