Keratosis Pilaris

Definition

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin deaseses. It looks like small, pointed pimples. Actually it is a dead skin cells that build up around the hair follicle. Actually Keratin is a protein which is found in human hair and nails and due to extra of keratin we ill by keratosis pilaris.

There are several different types of keratosis pilaris, including-

• keratosis pilaris rubra (red, inflamed bumps)
• alba (rough, bumpy skin with no irritation) and
• rubra faceii (reddish rash on the cheeks).

Causes

The specific causes of this disorder are unknown. Keratosis pilaris is an inherited skin condition. It means it running strongly in many families, sometimes with a generally dry skin (ichthyosis). Keratosis pilaris appears when extra keratin are present in the hair follicles. This is mainly present in childhood, and most obvious during adolescence, often it clears in adulthood.

The deficiency of vitamin A , is already is big cause of keratosis pilaris. A dry skin is called as ichthyosis, which increases the chances to get affected by keratosis pilaris.

Symptoms

Keratosis pilaris causes small, acne-like bumps, which usually appear on the upper arms, legs or buttocks. We do not affird because they usually don't hurt or itch. The bumps create rough patches and give skin a goose flesh or sandpaper appearance. Typically, patches are skin colored.

Keratosis pilaris can also appear on the face, where it closely resembles acne. Unlike elsewhere on the body, keratosis pilaris on the face may leave small scars.

Though quite common with young children, keratosis pilaris can occur at any age. It may improve, especially during the summer months, only to later worsen. Gradually, keratosis pilaris resolves on its own.

Treatment

Initial treatment should be using moisturizing. Try a cream such as Acid mantle, Vaseline or Complex 15 after bathing, and if possible re-apply the cream again several times daily.

Moisturizing lotions are often soothing and may help the appearance of the skin. Topical treatment with medications containing urea, lactic acid, Retin A (tretinoin), or vitamin D may be recommended by your physician. However, improvement often takes months and recurrence is likely.

While there is no known way to prevent keratosis pilaris, if possible then wear loose cloths around the affected areas which can also help reduce the marks. Avoid scratching the bumps because they can become open and infected.

At last I can say that keratosis pilaris an be prevented by us, if we are concuss about this.