Keratosis Pilaris: Bumpy Skin By David Robles, MD, PhD

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a fairly common skin condition characterized by small, skin colored or reddish bumps on the backs of the arms. The bumps are pimple-like, resembling goose flesh. KP generally runs in families and often when I have a child presenting with this condition, I can find it on either the mother or the father. KP usually first appears in childhood and may get better with age.  In addition to the sides of the arms and thighs, it may occur on the cheeks, the trunk and buttocks.

KP occurs more commonly in families with a history of eczema. The rash usually does not itch but when the skin gets real dry patients may complain of slight itchiness. The drier the skin gets, the worse the rash gets. In fact, most patients report that the bumps get worse in the winter (when the humidity is low) and better in the summer (when the humidity is high). So moisturizing is absolutely essential in making this condition better. Treatment is sometimes unsatisfactory because as of now, no specific prescription therapy exists. There is no cure, all we can do is make it better.

I usually recommend that the patient moisturize two times a day. I think the moisturizers that work the best are Amlactin (Amlactin Cerapeutic Lotion) or CeraVe (CeraVe SA Renewing Cream), Gold Bond Rough and Bumpy Skin, CeraVe Psoriasis Moisturizing Cream. When you get out of the shower, pat yourself dry and apply the lotion or cream to trap in the residual moisture. You should notice some improvement in a few weeks.

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