Keratosis Pilaris

What are these bumps on the backs of my upper arms?  Keratosis pilaris is a common condition in younger children and adults.  There is a thickening of the skin around the hair follicle in this condition, causing a goosebump or prickly feeling.  Sometimes the bumps are red or have acne involving them in the puberty years.  In addition to children and teenagers, another surge of occurrence of this condition is in post-partum women. It is most commonly seen on the back of the arms in the tricep area but is often seen on the cheeks, front of the upper thigh, and buttocks.   

Can I get rid of it?  Not really.  Some people are just genetically pre-designed to have this condition.  We see it most commonly in those with sensitive skin and eczema, but anyone can have this condition.  It is not contagious or infectious. It cannot be cured, but most people grow out of it in early adulthood.   

What can I do about it?  Using gentle soaps, cleansers, and moisturizing creams is a good first step.  The first big key is to avoid further irritating it by scrubbing, picking, and using harsh cleansers.  I recommend the Cetaphil Restoraderm wash and lotion for general cleansing and moisturizing for those with this condition.  In cases where the skin is very thick, often we will recommend creams with salicylic or lactic acid.  Examples include Cerave SA cream or lotion, AM Lactin, and ZO Body Emulsion.  Some patients with eczema will less commonly require topical hydrocortisone cream to help calm down any associated redness and rash.  

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