Keratosis Pilaris

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a harmless and very common condition in which small, rough bumps form on the skin, often compared to goose bumps or plucked chicken skin. It happens when too much keratin, a protein that normally protects the skin, builds up and plugs the openings of the hair follicles.

Who gets it?

Keratosis pilaris affects 50 to 70 in 100 teenagers and around 40 in 100 adults. It usually starts in childhood and often becomes more noticeable during the teenage years. It is seen more often in people with dry skin, atopic eczema or ichthyosis vulgaris, a condition that makes the skin very dry and scaly.

What causes it?

Its exact cause is unclear, but it has been linked to genes that influence how the skin makes keratin. It tends to be worse when the skin is dry, so many people notice it more in winter and less in summer.

Is it hereditary or contagious?

Keratosis pilaris usually runs in families. It is frequently inherited: if one parent has it, each of their children has a 50 in 100 chance of having it too. It is not an infection and cannot be caught from someone else.

What does it look and feel like?

Keratosis pilaris causes many small, rough bumps, each around 1 to 2 mm across, centred on hair follicles. The skin feels rough, like sandpaper. Bumps may be the same colour as the skin, white, red, or darker than nearby skin, sometimes with surrounding redness. On brown and black skin, the bumps are often darker, and they can leave darker marks.

The usual sites are the back of the upper arms and the front of the thighs. The buttocks, lower back and chest may also be involved. Less commonly it appears on the face and eyebrows, where it tends to look redder. Itch and pain are uncommon, but some people dislike the way it looks.

How is it diagnosed?

Keratosis pilaris is diagnosed from its typical appearance. No tests are needed.

What are the treatment options?

Dr Mounsey will confirm the diagnosis and reassure you that keratosis pilaris is harmless. While it cannot be switched off completely, the skin can be made smoother and less noticeable. Treatment includes regular use of moisturisers containing urea, lactic acid or salicylic acid, gentle skin care, and avoiding harsh scrubs. Retinoid creams may help some people, and short courses of mild steroid creams can reduce redness. Laser treatment may be considered for persistent redness, and Dr Mounsey can advise on this.

What is the outlook?

Keratosis pilaris cannot be cured, but it is harmless, and it often, though not always, improves or clears during adult life. Keeping the skin well moisturised can make the bumps less noticeable.

More information

British Association of Dermatologists patient leaflet: https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/keratosis-pilaris

This page gives general information only and is not a substitute for a consultation. Everyone's skin is different, and what is right for you will depend on your own circumstances. If you are worried about a skin problem, please book an appointment with Dr Mounsey or speak to your GP. If you have a mole or skin lesion that is changing, bleeding or growing quickly, please seek medical advice promptly.