What is Keratosis Pliarus
Keratosis pilaris (KP) has tiny, flesh-colored to slightly red bumps that give the skin a sandpaper-like texture. The bumps are most commonly seen on the upper arms and thighs. In children, they may also occur on the cheeks and can be mistaken for acne. Each tiny bump is nothing more than just a plug of dead skin cells.
Seen mainly in children and adolescents, keratosis pilaris occasionally itches, especially during the winter and in low-humidity climates. When humidity increases, usually during the summer, the skin is less itchy and the reddish color becomes somewhat less apparent.
Although keratosis pilaris is benign and harmless, people often seek treatment to alleviate the itch, for cosmetic reasons, or to diminish the appearance of these tiny bumps. Moisturizers may help with the dryness and associated itch but they will not tend to clear the bumps. Creams that contain urea or lactic acid are often effective moisturizers. A mild chemical peel can effectively remove the excess skin. Topical retinoids also are commonly used to treat keratosis pilaris.