Keratosis Pilaris Treatment in Midland, TX

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris, sometimes referred to as “bumpy skin” or follicular keratosis, is a very common skin condition that causes tiny bumps on the skin. These small bumps are caused when your hair follicles are blocked with a build-up of keratin, which is a type of protein found in skin, hair and nails.

What are the Symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris?

No Pain

Keratosis pilaris is painless. If you feel discomfort when pressing on the bumps, it’s likely not keratosis pilaris.

Appearance

Keratosis pilaris usually has the appearance of small bumps that people often describe as “goosebumps,” “small pimples,” etc.

Texture

People who have keratosis pilaris may describe their bumps as having a dry or rough texture, such as the feeling of “sandpaper.”

Color

These small bumps are normally the color of your skin; however, the bumps can also be red on light-colored skin or brownish-black on dark-colored skin.

Itchiness

Keratosis pilaris sometimes causes the skin to be itchy. This itchiness is typically more common in the colder months.

Dry Skin

These bumps tend to worsen in dry climates or in the colder months.

Where does Keratosis Pilaris Normally Appear on the Body?

Most often, keratosis pilaris will show up in patches on a person’s upper arms, but it can also appear wherever hair follicles are on your body, such as your:

• Face 
• Legs (usually on the thighs)
• Back
• Chest
• Forearms
• Buttocks

Who can be Affected by Keratosis Pilaris?

Although this harmless skin condition is typically more common in children and young adults, it can affect people of all ages. Some people even have this skin condition clear up on its own by the age of 30. This skin condition usually runs in families, so if your parents have keratosis pilaris, they may have passed it down to you. In addition, keratosis pilaris is not contagious, so you can’t spread or catch this skin condition.

Keratosis pilaris is also more likely to affect people who have

• Asthma
• Light-colored skin
• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Down syndrome
• Cushing’s syndrome

What are the Treatment Options for Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris isn’t harmful, and you typically do not need to treat it. If the itch, dryness or the appearance of the bumps bother you, treatment may help ease these symptoms and help you see clearer skin. Some treatment options include prescription or over-the-counter topical creams, exfoliating, laser treatments and more.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re looking for treatment for keratosis pilaris in Midland, Texas, we would love to see you at Midland Dermatology! Our board-certified dermatologists and certified physician assistants can help diagnose, manage and treat your skin condition. 

For more information or to schedule an appointment at Midland Dermatology, call 432-689-2512.

*The content provided in this post is for informational purposes and does not diagnose or treat any medical conditions or diseases. Always seek guidance from a physician regarding any medical concerns you may have.