Keratosis pilaris

Causes and Risks:
This condition is most often seen as a rough, almost goose-bump appearance of the skin over the outer upper arm and outer upper thighs, although it can occur on other areas of the body. The texture is that of very coarse sandpaper. Individual lesions consist of a small skin-colored papules which build up around hair follicles. The condition is generally worse in winter and often clears in the summer.

The condition is benign , self-limiting, and disappears with increasing age.

Prevention:
People who are prone to this condition may want to use moisturizing lotions regularly.

Symptoms:
  • fine, bumpy texture to skin over the outer upper arm and thigh or elsewhere
  • bumps the size of a grain of sand and skin colored



Signs and Tests:
Physical examination is sufficient for your health care provider to make this diagnosis. Testing is usually not necessary.

Treatment:
Moisturizing lotions are often soothing and help the appearance of the skin. Urea-containing creams or Retin A is occasionally prescribed for severe cases.

Prognosis:
Keratosis pilaris is a benign skin condition with no associated disease.

Complications:
There are no significant complications.

Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider (or discuss the condition during a routine visit) if you suspect that you have keratosis pilaris and the condition does not respond to use of over-the-counter moisturizing lotions (to rule out other conditions).


Keratosis pilaris occurs most commonly during childhood and produces small, rough spots (papules) that are typically skin-colored. They usually appear over the outer surface of the upper arms and thighs, but may also occur elsewhere on the body. Dry skin (especially during winter months) makes the condition worse. Keratosis pilaris tends to be inherited and may be associated with atopic dermatitis.



Keratosis pilaris occurs most commonly during childhood and produces small, rough spots (papules) that are typically skin-colored. They usually appear over the outer surface of the upper arms and thighs, but may also occur elsewhere on the body. Dry skin (especially during winter months) makes the condition worse. Keratosis pilaris tends to be inherited and may be associated with atopic dermatitis.



Keratosis pilaris rubra faceii is characterized by redness (erythema) and the presence of rough bumpiness (follicular spines) which may begin at birth or during childhood or adolescence.



Keratosis pilaris rubra faceii is characterized by redness (erythema) and the presence of rough bumps (follicular spines) which may begin at birth, or during childhood or adolescence.