Dermatology

Hyperkeratosis Pilaris

• KP, also follicular keratosis or ‘chicken skin’, is a common, genetic follicular condition manifested by the appearance of rough, slightly red bumps on the skin (resembles goosebumps).

• It most often appears on the back and outer sides of the arm and can also occur on the thighs, hands, and tops of legs, sides, and buttocks (or any body part except the palms or soles of feet).

• Lesions may also appear on the face, which may be mistaken for acne.

• There are several different types of keratosis pilaris, including keratosis pilaris rubra (red, inflamed bumps which can be on arms, head, legs), keratosis pilaris alba (rough, bumpy skin with no irritation), keratosis pilaris rubra faceii (reddish rash on the cheeks).  

• Keratosis pilaris occurs when the human body produces excess keratin, a natural protein in the skin. The excess keratin, which is cream-coloured, surrounds and entraps the hair follicles in the pore. This causes the formation of hard plugs. The hard bumps that are seldom sore or itchy.

• Though people with keratosis pilaris experience this condition year-round, it is during the colder months, when moisture levels in the air are lower, that the problem can become exacerbated.

• The keratin may trap the hair on itself in the follicle, called "capping off" the hair follicle, preventing the hair from exiting.

• Treatment options are limited, but moisturizing or keratolytic treatments, including urea, are worth a trial.