Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common skin disease which is characterised by the appearance of tiny rough bumps on the back of the upper arms, or sometimes the thighs, buttocks and face. In most cases, the bumps are usually white, but they could also appear red, especially in winter when the skin dries out. When you squeeze one, a little whitehead comes out, and this is the keratin protein (the substance that our nails and hair are made of). They give a 'sandpaper' feeling to the skin of the sufferers.
Causes
KP is a genetic skin disorder and it is hereditary. Most sufferers get it from their parents. It is essentially caused by the inability of skin cells to shed inside the follicle; it's also caused by the overproduction of keratin protein. Dead skin cells then stick to the hair follicles and build up the scaly white plugs. The reason why bumps are sometimes red is that body hair may be entrapped within the follicle, which, when bunched up, can cause irritation and inflammation. There have been suggestions made that KP might be linked with a deficiency in Vitamin A.
Who Gets It?
KP is most commonly seen among teenagers, yet it may occur in babies, in which case the affected area is usually on the cheeks. It is rarely seen on adults or the elderly because it tends to improve after puberty. However, the condition differs from person to person and sometimes the symptoms stay even after treatment. One interesting thing is that researchers have discovered most KP sufferers are of Celtic origin.
Impact and Treatment
Unfortunately, like many other skin disorders, there is currently no cure. This is partly because the condition is genetic in nature, which means that it will probably re-occur even if a person clears the symptoms. The good news is, KP is completely harmless and it is definitely no threat to the health of the sufferers, even though it might be unsightly.
Treatment is sought usually for cosmetic reasons. It has been suggested that lactic acid and alpha hydroxy acid are effective in clearing the bumps as they 'peel' the upper layer of the skin. Salicylic acid is proved to be useful also. KP sufferers usually have dry skin, therefore moisturising is very important. Some people try soaking in hot tub baths and then rubbing the areas with a coarse wash cloth or loofah sponge.
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