How To

How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(4 Ratings)

Keratosis pilaris is a genetic skin condition, which affects roughly 50 to 80 percent of adolescents and 40 percent of adults. The condition appears as rough bumps, which feel like sandpaper, on the upper arms, thighs and buttocks. A harmless disease that doesn't usually itch or hurt, keratosis pilaris has no cure or treatment. However, there are measures you can take to lesson the unsightly bumps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Moisturizer
Emollients and creams
Mild cleansers

Step 1

Wash affected areas with mild soaps or cleansers.
Step 2

Keep skin moisturized as much as possible, as keratosis pilaris tends to worsen with excessively dry skin, particularly in winter months.
Step 3

Apply emollients several times a day, especially after bathing. Products containing lactic acid, salicylic acid, petroleum jelly, alpha-hydroxy acid, urea cream, tretinoin cream or topical steroids may improve your symptoms.
Step 4

Seek a physician's advice if other products haven't relieved your symptoms. Some people find that a course of antibiotics or other prescription medications lessen their symptoms.
Step 5

Be patient. Keratosis Pilaris generally tends to improve with age. In some people, the condition disappears entirely. Others may have lifelong battles with recurring symptoms.