Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis Pilaris is a benign condition of the skin which mainly affects the hair follicles on the back of the arms, thighs and occasionally the face. There is buildup of keratin (scale) around the hair follicles where they exit the skin. This is a genetic disorder and often there will be other family members affected. It is frequently found in families with atopic diseases such as allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema/dry skin. 

The dermatologists at Village Dermatology Houston (Memorial and Katy) provide recommendations for our patients on how to improve keratosis pilaris: 

• Use emollients such as CeraVe SA, Cetaphil Rough and Bumpy, KP Bump Eraser, Amlactin, which can be found over-the-counter. We also have specially formulated glycolic acid products that can be purchased in our office. 

• Do not scrub the lesions, as this tends to irritate the hair follicles. 

• Do not squeeze the lesions, as you may end up causing scars if you pick at the lesions.

• Use a mild soap such as Dove, Cetaphil, or CeraVe. Avoid deodorant soaps such as Dial and Zest, etc. 

• Chemical peels can help smooth the appearance and decrease the redness. Results are not permanent, but with regular maintenance it can be helpful.  

This condition in most children improves with age. However, it usually does not completely go away. Around puberty, when the skin becomes more oily, these lesions may often improve (particularly on the face).