Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common, Autosomal Dominant, Genetic Follicular condition that is manifested by the appearance of rough, slightly red, bumps on the skin. It most often appears on the back and outer sides of the arm (though the forearm can also be affected), and can also occur on the thighs, hands, and tops of legs, sides, buttocks, or any body part except Glabrousskin (like the palms or soles of feet). Often the lesions will appear on the face, which may be mistaken for acne. Worldwide, KP affects an estimated 40%-50% of the adult population and approximately 50%-80% of all adolescents. It is more common in women than in men. Although it's not painful, it is annoying by their appearance. They are skin colored and treated like some difficult thing, and may become red and leave inflamed spots due to drought and itching. Reasons: Keratosis Pilaris occurs when the human body produces excess Keratin, a natural protein in the skin. The excess Keratin, which is cream colored, surrounds and entraps the hair follicles in the pore. This causes the formation of hard plugs (process known Ashyperkeratinization). Bearing only cosmetic consequence, the condition most often appears as a proliferation of tiny hard bumps that are seldom sore or itchy. Though people with KP experience this condition year-round, it is during the colder months, when moisture levels in the air are lower, that the problem can become exacerbated and the bumps are apt to look and feel more pronounced in color and texture. Treatment: • Moisturizing creams, which often contain Urea, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid or Topical Retinoid. • Use of medium-potency, emollient-based topical steroid cream once or twice a day for inflamed red areas. • Vitamin (A) compounds to deal with clogged follicles. • The use of whitening creams to treat itching and raised pigmentation. • Hair removal by laser machines in different stages and sessions. • Transparent chemical peels, and blue to soften and improve the color pigmentation resulting from itching and dryness. Dr. Farida Gabel Derma-Cosmetologist
