Keratotis pilaris are 1-2 millimeter-sized nodules, bumps or elevations in the skin that are tight.
They are red, brown or white, and are dry.
The skin can feel like sandpaper.
Some people have a little itchiness.
The outer side of the upper arm is the most common place to have it, but it can also appear on the thighs, buttocks, cheeks, forearms and upper back.
Occasionally it appears on the cheeks, neck and eyebrows.
It is the same on the right and left side of the body.
Anyone can have it, but it is most common in adolescence and early adulthood.
The elderly and children have it less often.
Sun, heat and summer can make it a little better.
This is because there is a build-up of dead skin cells in the outlet of the hair follicles.
These epidermal cells stick to the skin a little more easily than the normal skin cells that peel off when they die.
This is an inborn, genetic tendency.
Unfortunately, there is no treatment that will take it away forever.
Among measures that can make it better are:
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
