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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staff
Keratosis pilaris (ker-uh-TO-sis pil-AIR-is) is a common skin condition that causes rough patches and small, acne-like bumps, usually on the arms, thighs and buttocks. Keratosis pilaris bumps are usually white, sometimes red, and generally don't hurt or itch. Keratosis pilaris can be frustrating because it's difficult to treat. Prescription medications and self-care measures can improve the appearance of your skin.
Though you may not like the sandpaper-like appearance of your skin, keratosis pilaris isn't serious and doesn't have long-term health implications. In fact, though some cases may persist, keratosis pilaris usually disappears by age 30.
- Keratosis pilaris. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. http://www.aocd.org/skin/dermatologic_diseases/keratosis_pilaris.html. Accessed April 22, 2010.
- Keratosis pilaris. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec10/ch113/ch113d.html. Accessed April 22, 2010.
- Hwang S, et al. Keratosis pilaris: A common follicular hyperkeratosis. Pediatric Dermatology. 2008;82:177.
- Rogers M. Keratosis pilaris and other inflammatory follicular keratotic syndromes: Introduction. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 7th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aid=2960068. Accessed April 23, 2010.
- Dry skin and keratosis pilaris. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/skin_dry.html. Accessed April 22, 2010.
- Goldstein BG, et al. Approach to the patient with pustular skin lesions. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 22, 2010.
- Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 28, 2010.
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