Also known as follicular keratosis, this is a hereditary skin disorder that causes goosebump-like lesions on the back of the arms, thighs or buttocks. The patches of bumps tend to get dry and itchy, particularly during the winter months. Keratosis pilaris occurs at any age. Because it is hereditary, there is no method of prevention. In some cases, it goes away on its own over time; in other cases, the condition is chronic. Keratosis pilaris is not harmful, it can be very difficult to treat. Include fish oils in your diet.
Keratosis pilaris is caused by a build-up of keratin, a protein in the skin that protects it from infection. Keratin plugs up hair follicles causing the rough, bumpy rash.
Treatment options include prescriptions for:
- Medicated creams or lotions with 12 % ammonium lactate that softens the affected skin.This product specially formulates 12% lactic acid neutralized with ammonium hydroxide, as ammonium lactate to provide a lotion pH of 4.5 - 5.5. It also contains light mineral oil, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 stearate, propylene glycol, polyoxyl 40 stearate, glycerin, magnesium aluminum silicate, laureth-4, cetyl alcohol, methyl and propyl parabens, methylcellulose, fragrance and water.Sun exposure (natural or artificial sunlight) to areas of the skin treated with ammonium lactate lotion, 12% should be minimised or avoided. Talk to your GP or Dermatologist.
- Moisturisers (urea) that help loosen and remove dead skin cells.
- Topical corticosteroids for short-term, temporary relief of symptoms.
- Topical retinoids that increase cell turnover, which reduces the plugging of hair follicles.
- Dry body brushing to increase cell turnover.
To help alleviate symptoms, be sure to keep the affected area moistened at all times and avoid harsh drying soaps.
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