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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nKeratosis pilaris is a common, chronic\nskin condition that causes small, scaly bumps on the skin where there are hair\nfollicles. These bumps are the result extra keratin, which is a type of protein\nthat\u2019s part of skin, hair, and nails. Keratin forms under the skin, blocking\nthe opening of the hair follicle. When the hair follicle becomes plugged it\nleads to tiny rough, red patches on the skin that often resemble goose bumps. These\nbumps can appear on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. They can also appear\non the cheeks and on the sides of the torso. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is unknown as to why keratin builds\nup, but you are considered more at risk of developing it if you have a parent\nor sibling who has it. Also, those who already have eczema or atopic dermatitis\nare believed to have an increased chance of having the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While\nunderstanding what causes keratosis pilaris is still somewhat of a mystery, we\ndo know one factor that can exacerbate the condition – the weather. Even though\nkeratosis pilaris is not officially\nconsidered a seasonal condition, it usually becomes worse in dry or cold conditions,\ntypically associated in the Fall and Winter months. This is because cold\nweather breeds dry skin, which in turn seems to irritate keratosis pilaris. For\nsome, thankfully, the rash will disappear once warmer temperatures return.
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\nAlthough\nthere is no cure for keratosis pilaris, for some the condition can improve with\nage and without treatment. For others, symptoms\ncan be managed through a few different treatment options, including the use of topical\nexfoliants or retinoids or, in severe cases, laser therapy. There are also many\nthings you can do at home to reduce the symptoms of keratosis pilaris,\nincluding:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Using a moisturizer or a lubricating\nlotion<\/li>
- Not vigorously scrubbing the skin<\/li>
- Drying off gently after showering <\/li>
- Using a humidifier to eliminate dry air<\/li>
- Avoiding the use of harsh cleansers and\nsoaps<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
It is important to note that treatment\nmay improve the appearance of the bumps, but the condition often comes back if\ntreatment is stopped. You should speak\nwith your doctor or dermatologist to determine the correct course of treatment\nfor your skin condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To make an appointment with a dermatologist at Jamaica Hospital\u2019s Ambulatory Care Center<\/a>, please call 718-206-7001.<\/p>\n
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Weather associated with the Fall and Winter months can negatively impact your body in many ways, including how it affects your skin. Jamaica Hospital Medical Center would like to share information about one such skin condition, keratosis pilaris, that is … Continue reading