Keratosis Pilaris

Have you noticed small, rough bumps on your arms, legs, or bottom? These might be something called keratosis pilaris. Don't worry - this long name describes something very common and completely harmless.

What Does Keratosis Pilaris Look Like?

Keratosis pilaris shows up as:

• Small bumps that feel rough when you touch them
• Patches of bumps that are usually the same colour as your skin
• On white skin, the bumps might look red
• On brown or black skin, they might appear darker
• Skin that feels dry and rough

These bumps usually appear on your upper arms, thighs, or bottom. Sometimes they show up in other places too. The bumps don't hurt, but your skin might feel a bit itchy.

Why Does This Happen?

Your hair grows from tiny holes in your skin called hair follicles. Sometimes, a substance called keratin builds up and blocks these holes. Keratin is found naturally in your skin, hair, and nails.

Nobody knows exactly why this happens to some people and not others. But if your mum or dad has these bumpy patches, you're more likely to get them too - it runs in families.

The good news is that you can't catch it from someone else, and you can't pass it on to other people.

What Can You Do at Home?

Most people have keratosis pilaris for years, and it might clear up on its own eventually. Here's what you can do to help your skin look and feel better:

Do:

• Use a good moisturiser every day - ask your pharmacist which one is best for you
• Use mild soaps without strong smells
• Gently scrub your skin with a soft washcloth
• Take cool or warm (not hot) baths and showers

Don't:

• Use soaps with strong perfumes - they can dry out your skin
• Scrub too hard - this makes the bumps worse
• Have very hot baths or showers
• Scratch, pick, or rub the bumpy areas

You might notice your skin looks better in summer and worse in winter. This is normal.

When to Get Help

Speak to your pharmacist if:

• The things you're trying at home aren't helping
• Your skin becomes itchy or red and inflamed
• You're not sure whether you need to see your GP

Your pharmacist can suggest creams or lotions that might help. They can also tell you if you should see your GP.

Speak to your GP if:

• Your child has a rash and you're not sure what it is
• The condition is really bothering you or affecting your daily life

Other Treatments

Some people try steroid creams or laser treatments, but these usually aren't available on the NHS. They haven't been proven to work well, and they can be expensive if you pay privately.

Remember, keratosis pilaris is very common and completely harmless. Many people have it, and while it might be annoying, it won't hurt your health.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.