Is keratosis pilaris caused by blocked follicles?

Keratosis pilaris is caused by the buildup of keratin — a hard protein that protects skin from harmful substances and infection. The keratin blocks the opening of hair follicles, causing patches of rough, bumpy skin.

Is keratosis pilaris atopic dermatitis?

Although no clear etiology has been defined, keratosis pilaris is often described in association with other dry skin conditions such as ichthyosis vulgaris, xerosis, and, less commonly, with atopic dermatitis, including conditions of asthma and allergies.

How do you treat keratosis pilaris in the buttocks?

How is keratosis pilaris treated?

1. Reducing the size of the bumps. Lotion and cream with medicines such as salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, or tretinoin can help reduce the bumps.
2. Keeping your skin moisturized. Put lotion or cream regularly on the areas with bumps.

What genetic diseases cause keratosis pilaris?

KP is more common in patients affected by atopic diseases such as allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. KP subtypes are occasionally part of genetically inherited syndromes associated with intellectual disability, neuro-cardio-facial-cutaneous syndromes, RASopathies, ectodermal dysplasias, and certain myopathies.

What does keratosis pilaris look like in children?

This image displays tiny, scaly elevations of the skin around the hair follicle typical of keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris is a very common benign skin condition appearing as small, whitish bumps on the upper arms and thighs, especially of children and young adults.

How does a dermatologist diagnose keratosis pilaris?

To diagnose this condition, your dermatologist will examine your skin, looking closely at the skin that shows signs of keratosis pilaris. How do dermatologists treat keratosis pilaris? This skin condition is harmless, so you don’t need to treat it. If the itch, dryness, or the appearance of your skin bothers you, treatment can help.

What kind of cream to use for keratosis pilaris?

Apply an over-the-counter cream that contains urea (Nutraplus, Eucerin), lactic acid (AmLactin, Lac-Hydrin), alpha hydroxy acid or salicylic acid. These creams help loosen and remove dead skin cells. They also moisturize and soften dry skin. Put on this product before moisturizer.

How does keratosis pilaris affect the hair follicles?

Keratosis pilaris bumps happen when dead skin cells clog (block) your pores instead of flaking off. Your pores are openings in your skin where hairs come through the skin (hair follicles). Healthcare providers don’t know why some people are affected by keratosis pilaris, while others aren’t.