Chicken Skin: Keratosis Pilares

What is it?

A condition that results in bumpy skin which is why it is called "Chicken Skin". Primarily, it appears on the back and outer sides of the upper arms, but can also occur on thighs and buttocks or any body part except glabrous skin (like the palms or soles of feet), and less frequently on face. While this condition is harmless, many people find it to be irritating because of the appearance it has on the skin.

Causes

The condition is a result of clogged hair follicles, creating very uniform raised red or brown bumps. Keratosis pilaris tends to occur as excess keratin, a natural protein in the skin, accumulates around hair follicles (process known as hyperkeratinization). Unattractive more than anything else, it most often appears as a proliferation of tiny hard bumps that are seldom sore or itchy. Though people with keratosis pilaris experience this condition year round, it’s during the colder months when moisture levels in the air are lower that the problem can become exacerbated and the “goose bumps” are apt to look and feel more pronounced in color and texture.

Keratosis pilaris is often confused with acne.

Who gets it?

KP affects an estimated 40 to 50% of the adult population and approximately 50 to 80% of all adolescents. Varying in degree, cases of KP can range from minimal to severe. It Can start in childhood or later, with most outgrowing the condition by their thirties.

How is it diagnosed?

There are several different types of keratosis pilaris, including keratosis pilaris rubra (red, inflamed bumps), alba (rough, bumpy skin with no irritation), rubra faceii (reddish rash on the cheeks) and related disorders.

Most people with keratosis pilaris don't know they have it. While KP resembles goose bumps, it is characterized by the appearance of small rough bumps on the skin.

There is no test performed to verify the presence of the disease. Chicken Skin is diagnosed by looking at the skin texture in the key locations such as back of the upper arms. A medical professional, preferably a dermatologist should make the diagnosis.

How is it treated?

It is important not to overly treat this condition as it can cause it to worsen. Options include: exfoliation with a pumice stone or loofah, followed by hydration.

Topical treatments include creams with urea and salicylic acid or a retinoid like Retin A, and Amalactin to promote shedding of the clogged skin cells.

Lasers are also an option one can discuss with their dermatologist.

Some have found success in embarking on a whole foods diet, (gluten-free, dairy-free, wheat-free, sugar-free) finding it to reduce the condition significantly. One should always speak to a medical/nutritional professional before making significant changes to their diet, especially if already on a medically restricted eating plan.

What is the long-term prognosis?

The disease often resolves itself by the thirties.

External Links

• KeratosisPilaris.org
• The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology - Article on keratosis pilaris
• HelpForKP.com - (Keratosis Pilaris Help) - Provides information on what keratosis pilaris is, treatment options, and discussion forum.