Keratosis pilaris

Definition

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition in which a protein in the skin called keratin forms hard plugs within hair follicles.

Causes

Keratosis pilaris is harmless (benign). It seems to run in families. It is more common in people who have very dry skin, or who have atopic dermatitis (eczema).

The condition is generally worse in winter and often clears in the summer.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin. Tests are often not needed.

Treatment

Treatment may include:

Improvement often takes months, and the bumps are likely to come back if you stop using the medicine.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Keratosis pilaris may fade slowly with age.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if the bumps are bothersome and do not get better with lotions you buy without a prescription.

References

Bell MA, Grossberg AL. Keratosis pilaris and variants. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Coulson IH, Murell DF, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 125.

Patterson JW. Diseases of cutaneous appendages. In: Patterson JW, ed. Weedon's Skin Pathology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 16.


Review Date: 10/11/2023
Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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