Keratosis pilaris: Persistent goose pimples
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that appears as dry, rough patches of skin and small bumps. It doesn’t usually pose a health risk. But if you want to get rid of them, here are some tips and tricks for how to treat these sensitive skin patches.
2 minutes reading time06. March 2024
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that causes red, rough patches, typically on the upper arms and thighs. The many small red spots might remind you of goose pimples, but they are much more persistent and won’t disappear without the right treatment. Keratosis pilaris isn’t dangerous or contagious, but can be annoying for people who have it.
What causes keratosis pilaris?
Our upper arms and thighs are covered in hairs that grow out of small holes in the skin – hair follicles. With keratosis pilaris, these follicles get blocked because the skin produces too much keratin and this is deposited in the holes. Keratin gives skin cells structure and protects against foreign bodies and UV radiation. The reason some people’s skin produces too much keratin, leading to keratosis pilaris, hasn't been discovered yet. What is certain is that the disease is genetic. Keratosis pilaris can be a purely aesthetic problem for those affected, but it can also be irritating, as the dry skin is often itchy.
What's the right treatment?
The most important thing when treating keratosis pilaris is regularity. Unfortunately, in most cases the condition doesn't totally disappear after being successfully treated. It will come back if you don't keep up the treatment.
- Moisturising creams are the best way to smooth rough skin. It works best if the cream contains ingredients such as urea (binds moisture to the upper skin layers) and salicylic acid or glycolic acid (break down excess keratin). It's best to apply the cream every day after showering.
- Important shower tips: Shower oils and products containing lactic acid such as Antidry Lotion or Noreva Kerapil are recommended by santé24 dermatologists. Hot shower water also dries out the skin.
- It can also help if you treat the affected areas once a week with a gentle scrub. The grains in the scrub help remove the dead skin cells.
