6 Things You Should Know About Keratosis Pilaris
A big, scary name doesn’t always mean a big, scary struggle! Though it sounds daunting, keratosis pilaris is nothing more than a skin condition involving tiny, rough-feeling bumps on the skin. Don’t fret, girl-- it’s harmless, and super common!
Happy Girl’s 5 W’s will teach you everything to know about KP, including why we get it and how we can treat it.
WHO?
KP is very common in children and adults, though it has shown to clear up naturally with age. Studies have shown that about 50% to 80% of teenagers and 40% of adults have experienced or will experience keratosis at some point in their lives.
WHAT?
Keratosis appears as clusters of small bumps on the body that can often look like chicken skin, goose bumps, or even tiny pimples. It’s so common that many doctors refer to it as a skin type rather than a skin condition.
WHERE?
KP usually forms along the upper arms and thighs, but it can also be found on your tush, face-cheeks, or any part of your body that has hair follicles.
WHEN?
People are most likely to experience KP during puberty, but it is often diagnosed in babies, toddlers, children, and teenagers. As dry skin becomes more of a problem in the colder months, this condition can become more prominent in the winter. You should see a dermatologist when the bumps grow or become painful, as keratosis is painless and often just looks like goose bumps. If the bumps become itchy or filled with fluid, see a dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis.
WHY?
It is caused by a build-up of dead skin cells and keratin within the follicles. Naturally dry skin can worsen this condition. It’s not contagious, so you won’t need to worry about passing it to your peoples. KP is typically a genetic condition, so you’re more likely to develop it if it runs in your family.
HOW?
There is no complete cure for KP, but it can be treated with vitamin A supplements or creams. Moisturize and exfoliate dry skin often, using calming, natural soaps such as Happy Girl’s Exfoliating Bar. Using medicated creams may help the condition go away, but it can return if you stop using the creams. Usually this condition does clear up and get better naturally over time.
-Allison Kindley, Team Happy Girl
About the Author:
Allison Kindley is a Digital Media Production & Journalism student at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. She loves working with Team Happy Girl because she gets to inform others on feminine wellness, learn every day, write creatively, and empower women.