Keratosis Pilaris Cures

Keratosis pilaris, a follicular skin condition characterized by bumps on various parts on the body, is a condition that affects around half the population of the United States. Though it is not a harmful condition, its effects are unsightly, causing sufferers of the skin disorder to try many methods to rid themselves of the condition, often called "chicken bumps." Though there is no cure, there are many methods that have been successful in the reduction of the bumps.

Identification

Keratosis pilaris is sometimes confused with acne, but it is not the same thing. Keratosis pilaris, or "KP," usually affects only certain areas of the body--the back and front of the upper arms, the upper thighs, the buttocks area, and, sometimes, the cheeks on the face. KP shows up as small bumps, which can sometimes be reddened if the skin is irritated. These bumps appear in patches on the affected area and cause the skin to feel rough.

Causes

The KP bumps are caused by over production of keratin, which clogs the hair follicles on the affected area. A bump then appears because of the collection of extra keratin in that area. Often, if a bump is removed, one can find a small, coiled up hair in the matter removed. Unlike acne, which is caused by bacterial buildup, KP is caused by extra amounts of skin particles. KP also seems to be a genetic characteristic, passed on from parent to child.

Treatment

There is no cure for KP. Many treatments are available, some over the counter and some prescription. Most include an exfoliation of the skin on a regular basis and the application of some sort of topical creams and lotions. It is important to keep the area hydrated, as the base reason for the condition is dry skin. Many people opt for more expensive treatment from dermatologists, such as microdermabrasion on a regular basis; however, no particular treatment has proved to be inclusive to everyone as a "cure." Most dermatologists agree that treatment for this disorder must be an ongoing process with a lot of trial and error.

Effects

If a treatment is found to work, it is important to continue and keep the skin hydrated. Most people find that KP goes away on its own, after the sufferer reaches her 30s. People also find that the condition worsens in the winter time, when the air is colder and dryer, leading again to the excessive clogging of hair particles. Many people find that having a suntan helps, even though this is not a good reason to expose oneself to the risk of skin cancers to cure a superficial condition.

Misconceptions

Many people see KP and wonder if they, too, could "catch" it. However, KP is not a disease that is transmitted from person to person. It is not a contagious condition, but a genetic one. Although it can be an unattractive condition, it really is a harmless skin disorder. Patience, time, trial and error, and age are the best treatments for KP.

Resources

• MedicineNet