What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is a common but harmless skin condition. It causes small, rough bumps on your skin. This is sometimes described as 'gooseflesh' or 'chicken skin'.

It is common during the teenage years, but can also happen in children and adults.

What are the symptoms of keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris usually shows up as small, rough bumps on your skin. They can be greyish-white or red. Sometimes the bumps may feel rough or irritated.

It can be mild, with just a few bumps, or more widespread across larger areas of skin. They are often found on dry, scaly areas of skin. Many bumps also contain an ingrown hair.

Keratosis pilaris is most common on your:

• upper arms
• thighs
• buttocks
• chest
• back
• face

What causes keratosis pilaris?

The exact cause of keratosis pilaris is not known but several things may play a role:

• It often runs in families — if a parent has it, their child may also get it.
• Usually, a protein called keratin helps protect your skin. In keratosis pilaris, keratin can build up and block the hair follicles in your skin. This can create small, rough bumps on your skin.
• Sometimes hairs grow in a curled or coiled shape inside the follicle, which can irritate the skin and lead to redness.
• Changes in the skin's oil glands (sebaceous glands) might also contribute to the bumps.

Keratosis pilaris is more common in winter. This is because your skin tends to be drier.

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if:

• symptoms don't get better on their own
• your skin becomes very red or sore, which may be signs of a skin infection
• the condition is making you feel very self-conscious or is affecting your daily life

How is keratosis pilaris diagnosed?

Your doctor will examine your skin and ask about your symptoms. Tests are usually not needed.

How is keratosis pilaris treated?

Keratosis pilaris usually gets better over time and doesn't need any medical treatment.

If symptoms don't get better or affect how you feel about yourself, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist. They may suggest creams or lotions that may help:

• soften and soothe the bumps
• reduce redness or irritation
• remove dead skin

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice about which creams to use.

Laser therapy may also be used to treat keratosis pilaris. It can improve redness and skin texture.

Living with keratosis pilaris

There are things you can do to make your skin feel and look better:

• Keep your skin hydrated. Use a gentle cream to stop your skin from drying out.
• Keep showers short. Long, hot showers or baths can dry out your skin.
• Use a mild soap or cleanser to clean your skin.
• Use a soft cloth or gentle scrub to help remove dead skin, but don't scrub too hard.
• Ask your pharmacist to recommend a mild cleanser with salicylic acid.

If your skin's health affects how you feel about yourself, talk to your doctor or dermatologist about treatment options and support.

What are the complications of keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris can sometimes cause other effects. The bumps might leave dark marks or tiny dents (scars) in your skin after they go away. A rare type can cause your skin to thin and lead to hair loss, especially in your eyebrows.

You may feel embarrassed, anxious or sad about how your skin looks. If keratosis pilaris is causing anxiety, let your doctor know so they can adjust your treatment.

Can keratosis pilaris be prevented?

There is no sure way to stop keratosis pilaris from developing, since it often runs in families. Timely treatment can help prevent some complications.

Resources and support

• The Australasian College of Dermatologists has information on keratosis pilaris.
• The Kids Research Institute Australia Koolungar Moorditj Healthy Skin Project has a fact sheet on keratosis pilaris.
• DermNet has information and images of keratosis pilaris.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.