It is not contagious.
Rather, it shows up when hair follicles on the body fill with dead skin cells instead ofexfoliatingnormally.
It is typically diagnosed by appearance and is regarded as a cosmetic condition, meaning that it is harmless.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
While treatment isn’t necessary, some medications are available that can help clear skin.
This article discusses the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of keratosis pilaris.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris can occur at any age, but it is most common during adolescence.
Keratosis pilaris tends to run in families and is triggered by a buildup of keratin in thepores.
Keratin is a fibrous protein that makes up your skin, hair, and nails.
Keratin will sometimes collect within a pore, creating a plug (called a keratotic plug).
The obstruction causes the pore to swell and become inflamed, often trapping one or more hairs inside.
Why keratin builds up in the pores of some people is not clear.
Some experts believe that keratosis pilaris is not solely the result of a keratotic obstruction.
Keratosis pilaris doesn’t hurt and typically doesn’t itch.
If itching does occur, it is usually mild.
In milder cases, you may only notice the bumps when running a hand over the affected skin.
In other people, the rash may be visibly noticeable and the skin can be quite rough.
In teens and adults, the backs of the arms and buttocks are the sites most commonly affected.
Who Gets Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris can occur at any age, but it is most common during adolescence.
Keratosis pilaris tends to run in families.
Keratosis pilaris occurs more frequently in females than in males.
It usually appears before age two or during adolescence and can worsen during pregnancy and after childbirth.
For most people, keratosis pilaris will improve or resolve in adulthood.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Keratosis pilaris may need more than at-home treatment.
Diagnosis
Keratosis pilaris is usually diagnosed based on the appearance and location of the rash.
Dermatologists can get an up-close view using a magnifying tool known as a dermatoscope.
This is especially true forbabies and younger children.
Its appearance, however, may be bothersome to some.
The bumps may go away on their own or become less noticeable with age.
They may also improve or disappear during the summer months.
At present, there is no cure for keratosis pilaris.
Treating keratosis pilaris may also help keep it from getting worse.
These typically involve higher concentrations of lactic acid, salicylic acid, or urea.
People with delicate skin may experience redness and irritation.
Topical steroidsmay be prescribed if the rash is extremely inflamed and bumpy.
Never treat a child’s skin condition with medications intended for adults.
If in doubt, speak with your child’s pediatrician.
A less common procedure isphotopneumatic therapyin which pulsed blue light may provide relief of severe, treatment-resistant keratosis pilaris.
Never embark on an aesthetic procedure like a chemical peel without first speaking with a dermatologist.
Although estheticians are highly trained cosmetic professionals, they are not doctors or other healthcare providers.
It is a harmless cosmetic condition and is not contagious.
It comes up whenever hair follicles on the body fill with dead skin cells.
Diagnosis is made via a physical examination.
Keratosis pilaris may resolve on its own with age.
A Word From Verywell
Keratosis pilaris is not harmful or contagious and does not require treatment.
These ingredients may be found in cleansers, scrubs or moisturizing lotions or creams.
Sonthalia S, Bhatia J, Thomas M.Dermoscopy of keratosis pilaris.Indian Dermatol Online J.
2019;10(5):613-4. doi:10.4103/idoj.IDOJ_279_18
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to treat keratosis pilaris at home.
Peter Rout D, Nair A, Gupta A, Kumar P.Epidermolytic hyperkeratosis: clinical update.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol.
2021;13(10):e18917.
