What Is Keratosis Pilaris?

What is keratosis pilaris? It is a skin condition that is frequently associated with young people and is known as “chicken skin” due to its appearance. Although there is no cure, it tends to go away on its own by the time you reach your 30s. In the interim, you can take some steps to manage it. Consult a dermatologist to determine the best ways to treat it.

What Is Keratosis Pilaris?

You may notice little, painless bumps on your skin surrounding hair follicles if you have keratosis pilaris. It is a benign (not harmful) skin condition. If you have dry skin, you are more likely to have this condition. It frequently affects persons with specific skin problems, including eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis).

Keratosis pilaris occurs when keratin builds up and forms a scaly plug that blocks the opening of the hair follicle. Typically, plugs form in multiple hair follicles, resulting in patches of rough, bumpy skin. Keratin is a tough protein that shields skin from infection and dangerous substances.

Why Do They Develop?

Keratin is a tough, fibrous protein found in fingernails, hair, and skin. The body may generate more keratin as a result of inflammation, as a defensive response to pressure, or as a result of a genetic problem.

The visible bumps that form on the skin resemble goosebumps or the skin of a plucked chicken, which is why keratosis pilaris is sometimes referred to as “chicken skin.” These bumps might be red, brown, white, or the same color as your skin.

The majority of hyperkeratosis forms can be managed with medication and preventative measures.

In excess, keratosis pilaris can extend to the forearms and lower legs. Other symptoms include: 

• A faint pink or crimson tint around bumps inflamed and itchy skin anywhere on the skin where hair follicles are present. This includes the soles of your feet and the palms of your hands.
• You can have dry skin bumps that feel like sandpaper and can occur in varied colors depending on the individual (flesh-colored, white, red, pink, brown, or black) 

What Is Keratosis Pilaris Root Cause?

If you have keratosis pilaris, your body hair’s keratin clogs the pores. It inhibits the growing hair follicles from opening, causing a little bump to form where the hair should be. If you pick at the mound, a small body hair may arise.

The exact source of keratin buildup is unknown. But scientists think that genetics and skin conditions play a role as its causative factor. This includes atopic dermatitis.

Who Is More Prone to Keratosis Pilaris?

Individuals with Celtic ancestry, women, children, or teenagers frequently exhibit chicken skin, as do those who have:

Dry skin

Keratosis pilaris is more common in people with dry skin. And it typically worsens in the winter when there is less humidity in the air. It frequently affects people with particular skin disorders, such as eczema (also called atopic dermatitis).

Eczema

Keratosis pilaris appears to run in families, and is more prevalent in persons with extremely dry skin or atopic dermatitis.

Ichthyosis

In many cases, plugs form in several hair follicles, resulting in patches of rough, bumpy skin. Keratin is a hard protein that defends skin from dangerous substances and infection. And it builds up in keratosis pilaris, generating patches of rough, bumpy skin.

Hay fever

Keratosis pilaris is a common hereditary condition that is more common in women than in men. It manifests as rough bumps on the skin, mostly on the back and outer sides of the upper arms. But can also affect the cheeks, thighs, and tops of the legs. It is estimated that 40% of adults and 50-80% of adolescents are affected by this skin condition.

It often appears in late childhood or adolescence and typically clears up by the mid-20s, with most cases disappearing by the age of 30.

People with pale skin are more likely to develop keratosis pilaris, and those who have dry skin are more likely to have it. Hormonal changes can cause flare-ups during pregnancy and puberty.

Can Keratosis Pilaris Be Prevented?

Can you  prevent keratosis pilaris? This prevalent skin ailment affects people of all ages and races. And for most people, it starts before the age of two. You cannot prevent  the development of Keratosis pilaris. But using a gentle skincare routine can lessen its appearance and help prevent flare-ups. For example, using an oil-free lotion or ointment to hydrate your skin will help prevent the clogged pores that cause the condition. You should also use an over-the-counter cream that contains urea, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or salicylic. Applying moisturizer can help prevent dry skin, which can trigger flare-ups of keratosis pilaris.

Key Takeaway

What is keratosis pilaris? It is a skin condition that is sometimes referred to as “chicken skin.” Currently, there is no known cure for keratosis pilaris. It usually goes away on its own or starts to fade by the time a person is 30 years old. Consult your dermatologist for any concerns. 

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