Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that affects many people and is defined by the growth of small bumps that resemble acne, as well as irregular patches of rough skin all over the body. The thighs, arms, legs, and buttocks are the areas of the body that are most frequently affected by skin anomalies, however other parts of the body may also be affected. The lumps might be pink or white in appearance, and they do not cause any discomfort or itching.
The occurrence of keratosis pilaris is not associated with any adverse health effects that have been documented to date. Patients, on the other hand, may suffer from a diminished sense of self-worth and become agitated due to the sandpaper-like texture of their skin.
After the age of 30, the skin problem will, in the vast majority of cases, clear up on its own without any intervention from the patient.
Keratosis pilaris may continue to be present in certain patients despite treatment, however this is not always the case. The treatment is often drawn out and laborious, which can lead to a great deal of emotional distress for the patient.
The fact that patients are assured that certain self-care measures, adjustments in lifestyle, and the use of certain prescription medications will surely aid in the subsiding of both the symptom, and improve the overall appearance of the skin can bring them some respite.
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Keratosis Pilaris – Symptoms and Signs to Watch out for
The following is a list of indications and symptoms that may indicate that you have keratosis pilaris:
- The development of very small bumps that have the appearance of acne lesions. These lumps rarely cause pain and typically have a flesh-colored appearance.
- As a result of the inflammation or swelling, the irregularities of the skin may occasionally change color and take on a ruddy appearance.
Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that most commonly appears on the buttocks, thighs, arms and lower limbs of affected individuals. This skin condition can manifest itself in a variety of other ways, including on the face on occasion. It is important to note, however, that the bumps caused by keratosis pilaris are not the same as pustules caused by acne.
The characteristic aspect of this condition is the development of atypical pimples, in addition to dry and chapped skin. Even while the bumps do not generally cause itching, certain patients could have itching, that ranges from mild to severe.
Keratosis pilaris is more common in children than in adults. Grownups, on the other hand, could also experience this irregularity of the skin.
It’s possible that the sandy texture of your skin will go away throughout the warmer months of the year, but it’s also possible that it will come back if the weather changes.
After the keratosis pilaris has been successfully controlled and treated, patients run the risk of developing scars on their faces. Notably, the treatment does not cause scarring in any of the other regions of the body that were affected.
Keratosis Pilaris – Causes
Keratosis pilaris is brought on by an abnormally high level of keratin accumulation on the skin.
Keratin is a form of dense protein that defends the body against the damaging effects of potentially toxic substances and infectious agents. Because of the increased quantities of keratin, a scaly plug forms, which causes the hair follicle openings to get crowded and eventually clogged.
Keratosis pilaris is characterized by the presence of a number of these scaly plugs, which ultimately results in the formation of the typical clusters of bumps and irregular skin patches.
Researchers are unsure as to the specific reasons for the accumulation of an excessive amount of keratin.
Keratosis pilaris has a propensity to become more severe and intense in people with dry skin. Many researchers state that the anomaly tends to affect people with a genetic predisposition to the skin disorder in combination with various other factors such as the presence of skin diseases like atopic dermatitis or ichthyosis vulgaris.
Keratosis pilaris has a tendency to affect people with a genetic predisposition to the skin disorder.It is essential to keep in mind, however, that the abnormalities of the skin might nevertheless harm persons who are otherwise healthy.
Keratosis Pilaris Treatment
The skin irregularities that are associated with keratosis pilaris cannot be treated using any one method that is universally accepted.
The use of a variety of topical medications and a wide range of self-care practices are both components of the treatment plan, with the end goal of reducing the excess keratin deposits.
Keratosis pilaris can be treated with any of the following creams, ointments, and lotions, which are listed below:
- Corticosteroids – These are a type of anti-inflammatory medication that suppress the immune system in order to reduce the formation of new cells. Creams containing hydrocortisone and other types of mild corticosteroid medications are used to treat keratosis pilaris in sensitive portions of the body, such as the face, as well as widespread areas of the body. Because of the potential for these potent corticosteroids’ negative effects, they are only applied topically for brief periods of time in order to provide only temporary relief from the bothersome symptoms.
- Retionid Creams – Vitamin A is the primary component in retinoid creams.Because it promotes the turnover of cells and prevents the obstruction of hair follicles, it is an effective treatment for managing the symptoms of keratosis pilaris. Topical retinoids might potentially induce undesirable side effects. A dermatologist is in the position to recommend the right dosage.
- Exfoliants – Exfoliants that are applied topically help to relax the skin, hydrate it, remove dead skin cells, and other benefits. As a result of this, they are beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of keratosis pilaris.
Due to the potentially harmful consequences, exfoliants should never be used without first seeing a medical professional. Additionally, you should never apply it on children.
Patients can experience a reduction in the severity of their keratosis pilaris symptoms by following the self-care suggestions that are provided below:
- Do not use soaps that are abrasive or drying.
- When you are through showering or bathing, pat your body dry with a soft towel, and avoid excessively washing the skin because this might make the skin abnormalities worse.
- Never use harsh soaps or cleansers on your skin
- After some time has passed, a moisturizer can be applied to the skin that is still damp.
- Use a humidifier to increase the amount of moisture in the air, particularly within your home.
Authoritative Clinical References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546708/
https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(07)02184-6/fulltext
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