Keratosis Pilaris is a disorder, where dead cells shed from the skin’s upper layer and create plugs that fill hair follicle openings.

The plugs result in pointed, small pimples to break out, usually, on the buttocks, thighs, and upper arms. The face can also break, especially, in children. Individuals, who have Keratosis Pilaris, are most likely to break out in a cold environment, but the pimple is tends to clear up by itself in the summer.

The cause of the condition is not known, however, such disorder tends to run in families, so, heredity possibly plays a role. Usually, the pimples result in only in cosmetic problems.

Keratosis Pilaris tend to clear up by themselves. Petroleum jelly mixed with either salicylic acid, cold cream, or water, can help flatten the bump. Tretinoin cream or stronger salicylic acid preparation may also be helpful.

This entry was filed under Skin Diseases & Conditions.

Tags: bump, dead cells, hair follicle, petroleum jelly, pimples, salicylic acid