Often confused with acne — or a rash — keratosis pilaris (KP) produces masses of small bumps on the skin. Indeed, the red or white bumps tend to resemble whiteheads, inflammation and other acne-like signs. Although relatively harmless, the bumps can be difficult and frustrating to treat. Learn why KP happens and what you can do about it.
What is keratosis pilaris (KP)?
At some point, many of us have seen small, hard, acne-like bumps on the backs of our arms. In fact, 50 percent of the population is affected by KP. This hereditary skin disorder is more likely to occur in people with dry, chapped skin.
KP is characterized by whitish bumps, usually clustered on the backs of the upper arms, but the bumps can also appear on your thighs, buttocks or face. Sometimes nicknamed “chicken skin,” KP is neither contagious nor harmful. But it can be bothersome, unsightly and embarrassing.
How do you get KP?
Many factors can contribute to KP, including:
- Blocked follicles. Typically, dead skin cells fall off and are replaced by new, healthy ones. But with age, this cellular turnover process slows down. Consequently, dead skin cells can build up and clog hair follicles. Keratin — a primary protein component of skin and hair — can also block follicles. These blockages result in small, impacted bumps, which create a rough, sandpaper-like texture on the skin.
- External triggers. Certain conditions tend to aggravate the bumps, including cold weather, synthetic fibers, low humidity, chlorine exposure and hot baths or showers.
- Hormones and genetics. Hormones may play a role in KP, because the condition tends to flare up when hormones surge, such as during puberty. Women may be more susceptible during or just after pregnancy, when hormones are also quite active. KP often disappears with age, but may periodically recur even in adulthood. Thought to be hereditary, KP is usually passed down the family tree.
How can you treat KP?
There’s no known cure for KP; however, proper skincare can treat a flare up and smooth away the bumps. Give the below tips a try:
- Don’t scrub skin harshly or vigorously.
- Treat skin gently to avoid further irritation.
- Avoid picking at the bumps, as this can cause scarring.
- Gently exfoliate the skin. Apply exfoliators or scrubs with a washcloth and choose scrubs that contain ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids — such as glycolic and lactic acids — salicylic acid or azelaic acid. These ingredients effectively exfoliate skin, dissolving dead cells that can clog follicles and lead to KP.
- Follow with a rich, hydrating moisturizer. Slather it on immediately after a bath or shower, and keep re-applying it during the day. Remember, KP symptoms tend to worsen with dry, irritated skin.
Product picks
Check out these effective products for keeping KP symptoms at bay:
- Body wash. To cleanse skin without causing further irritation or dryness, reach for ATOPALM Body Wash. This gentle formula contains no harsh additives and maintains skin's natural moisture balance.
- Exfoliator. Next, use an exfoliator to smooth away dry, rough skin. Dr. Michelle Copeland Microdermabrasion Formula contains 10 percent alpha hydroxy acid and calming aloe. It’s safe to use on your face and body.
- Moisturizer. Finish with an ultra-hydrating body lotion to lock in moisture and relieve irritation. Glytone Body Lotion boasts emollients to moisturize dry, rough, bumpy skin.
You may not be able to cure KP, but a dedicated skincare regimen can treat the various irritating signs of this common condition. Proper care can control KP symptoms, leaving your skin smooth, vibrant and virtually bump-free.
See also:
Contact Dermatitis: Irritating Accessories
Potentially Risky Hobbies for Skin
Exfoliation 101