SKIN CONDITIONS

Keratosis pilaris

A common skin condition causing small, rough bumps on arms, legs, buttocks, and cheeks.

Small lumps caused by keratin plugging hair follicles
Treatment is optional; skincare is usually the first step
Frequently resolves without treatment

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Keratosis pilaris: back view of a man's upper arm

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Keratosis pilaris, also known as KP, is a skin condition caused by an accumulation of keratin in hair follicles. It’s most common in children and young adults.

What does keratosis pilaris look like?

Affected skin feels rough with multiple small firm lumps about 1mm in diameter. Lumps are normally the same colour as the surrounding skin but can be red or brown. The skin tends to feel dry and rough.

The condition most commonly affects the back of the upper arms and the top of the upper thighs. Dry and cold air may worsen the symptoms.

Treatment of keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a harmless condition, and treatment is not medically required.

It’s often possible to self-treat keratosis pilaris with exfoliating creams such as salicylic acid or lactic acid, available over the counter from pharmacies.

If treatment is desired for cosmetic reasons, topical products, laser and intense pulsed lights may help improve the symptoms.

Progression

Treatments for keratosis pilaris don’t cure the condition but they can relieve symptoms. However, even without treatment, keratosis pilaris frequently resolves by itself, especially in milder cases. It may improve over time, but can persist into adulthood.