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Keratosis pilaris
What is
keratosis
pilaris?
What causes
it?
How can
I control
the symptoms?
Tips
Keratosis pilaris is a very common disorder that appears in childhood and, in the majority of patients, resolves in adulthood. This disorder is characterised by keratin plugs that give skin a bumpy appearance similar to “goosebumps”. It is associated with atopy and frequently occurs in conjunction with various dermatological disorders including dry and atopic skin.
The lesions are found on the lateral surfaces of the thighs and arms, and sometimes on the buttocks and forearms. Moist areas are always spared.
Keratosis pilaris occurs when keratin builds up and blocks hair follicles, forming corneal plugs that cause the “goosebumps” effect. It tends to appear more frequently during months when the climate is drier, in winter, and tends to improve in summer when there is more humidity in the environment.
The best way to combat these corneal keratin plugs is to prevent excessive skin dryness by applying emollients and moisturisers and, secondly, to soften and eliminate the plugs using emollient and keratolytic agents such as glycolic and salicylic acid, allowing for a clear improvement in the epidermis.
- Apply topical emollient products once a day, preferably at night so that the product is left on to work while you sleep, thus keeping the skin moisturised.
- When you apply the cream, you are recommended to distribute a sufficient amount of product over the skin with your finger pads, working in small circles until it is completely absorbed.
- Avoid rubbing the affected area of skin and/or rubbing when you dry the area.
