Do you suffer from hard white or red skin bumps primarily in the thighs, upper arms, or buttocks? While you may suspect an attack of just common acne, you may be experiencing a condition called keratosis pilaris. While that may sound like a mouthful, keratosis pilaris is often known as “chicken skin” since it closely resembles goosebumps.
So what causes this benign yet bothersome condition? Blame an overproduction of keratin, which is a protein found in hair, skin, and nails. When the keratin production builds up in the hair follicles, it can form hard plugs which result in tiny hard white or red bumps on the skin. Keratosis pilaris closely resembles acne, however, the bumps do not contain pus. Often times, the condition appears as dry, rough patches on the skin.
There are three main types of keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris rubra appears as red, inflamed bumps, keratosis pilaris alba which appears as rough, bumpy skin but with no irritation, and keratosis pilaris rubra faceii which causes a red rash on the cheeks.
While it is a benign condition, there are some self-help measures you can take to help treat keratosis pilaris beyond using KP Elements. An initial first step that many doctors recommend is to increase moisturizing especially after bathing. Using a humidifier during the dry winter months can also help keep the condition under control.
While it is more of a persistent and annoying condition, keratosis pilaris is treatable with the above regimens. However, the condition does have a tendency to return if treatment is stopped.
