KERATOSIS PILARIS
Keratosis Pilaris is a very common alteration of the skin, where the skin looks like “sandpaper” and “bumps” on the back of the arms, legs, chest and buttocks appear. It is more common in patients who have very dry skin, or who have atopic dermatitis (eczema).
What is it?
This skin condition can occur at any time of life, but it is more common during childhood and adolescence, usually improving in adulthood. It is caused by the accumulation of keratin (outer skin protein) in the hair follicles forming “grain” or bumps on the skin (pink color, sometimes with a white center). It can be confused with acne.
Symptoms
Small bumps like “sandpaper” or “goose bumps” on the back of the arms, thighs or face. Some lesions have a slight pink tinge around. They are not painful or itchy.
Diagnosis
Your dermatologist can make a diagnosis by exploring the skin lesions. It sometimes requires a painless micro biopsy to rule simulators.
Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris
It is a benign condition that affects the skin cosmetically. There is no definitive treatment but can be treated and improved with creams containing keratolytic components such as urea, lactic acid, ammonium lactate and salicylic acid. These components can be combined to not only moisturize, but also promote exfoliation of affected area. In more severe cases, your dermatologist may prescribe topical treatment with retinoids, which will prevent follicular obstruction. We offer custom made formulas depending on the areas to be treated, patient age and possible underlying dermatological disease (atopy, psoriasis etc.).
Prognosis
In general, Keratosis Pilaris tends to improve with age (from 16 years on), and during summer season, but in some cases it may persist, with periods of exacerbations and remissions.
Dr. Pablo Umbert Millet
Director of Instituto Pablo Umbert · Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist
Dr. Pablo Umbert is one of the leading experts in clinical dermatology, dermatopathology, and Mohs micrographic surgery in Spain. With over 30 years of experience, an international career at the Mayo Clinic and Saint-Louis Hospital in Paris, and more than 100,000 biopsies signed, he remains active as an emeritus professor at Hospital Universitario Sagrat Cor, where he supervises clinical cases and trains new generations of dermatologists.