Keratosis pilaris (also known as follicular keratosis or “chicken skin”) is a common cosmetic skin condition that affects 50% of adults and 80% of adolescents, both male and female. KP is often quite noticeable – numerous small, rough, red bumps cover the upper arms, legs, buttocks, and sometimes cheeks. While the bumps are usually not painful or itchy, picking at them can cause bleeding and scarring.
Examples of Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis Pilaris happens when your body makes excess keratin. Keratin is a natural protein found in our skin. You start seeing KP spots when there's surplus keratin and it starts surrounding and trapping the hair follicles in your pores causing the formation of hard plugs known as hyperkeratinization.
The word hyperkeratinization may be hard to pronounce, but don't worry because it's actually a pretty simple and very common condition. The plugs start creating bunches of small, red bumps on your arms, legs, buttocks, and sometimes cheeks. They could be on one of these body parts, some of them, or all of them. They can come and go, or stay in the same places for a long time. KP is a genetic condition, which means that you are more likely to develop keratosis pilaris if some of your family has it too. Luckily there have been great advancements in treatments for those who want to get rid of their red dots once and for all.
Keratosis Pilaris bumps are tiny, red and are often mistaken for other rashes or even small pimples. They are commonly found on the backs of arms, legs and sometimes, cheeks. Dry skin can make Keratosis Pilaris worse, so treating it with products that moisturize and nourish the skin is important.
Because dryer skin makes Keratosis Pilaris bumps more noticeable, itchier and rougher in texture, Keratosis Pilaris tends to worsen in the dry winter months and clear up a bit during the summer months. But how can you manage Keratosis Pilaris all year long?
Treat KP like this all year long with KP Elements
It's possible to have these conditions at the same time, but they must be treated independently.
Unfortunately there is no cure for KP. However, all hope is not lost! Regular treatment with KP Elements can keep your skin free of keratosis pilaris indefinitely.
