Causes of Keratosis Pilaris (Bumpy Skin)

 

 Keratosis Pilaris is a condition that causes goosebump-like bumps to appear on the cheeks, arms, thighs, or buttocks.

 

These raised bumps may be white or red in colour and sometimes occur with ingrown hairs.

 

 

 

Casues of Keratosis Pilaris

 

It is more common in childhood and often disappears in puberty.

 

This condition is likely to be caused by an excess production of keratin. More research is requiring to determine the actual cause and pathway as to how Keratosis Pilaris occurs.

 

While there is a strong genetic element to this illness, there is a body of evidence that suggests that a diet low in Vitamin A & C may contribute to the development of this condition.

 

 

Treatment

 

Keratosis pilaris normally clears up without treatment. Frequent treatments that reduce its severity and quicken its remission include:

  • Moisturizing of skin with Body Lotions to soften the skin and reduce skin irritation.
  • Using creams that exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. These creams contain ingredients such as, urea, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid which loosen the skin’s dead cells.
  • Applying creams that contain Vit A (retinol) encourages cell turnover and prevents hair follicles from becoming blocked.

 

Vitamin A & C supplements are commonly used in the treatment of this disorder. 

 

The latter, cannot be produced by the body and must be taken in by eating foods such as citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, and potatoes.  

 

Great sources of Vitamin A include Eggs, Cod Liver Oil, Orange, and yellow fruits and vegetables, most dark leafy green vegetables, and spinach.

 

 

 

 

Ann O’Flynn B.Pharm, MA, BSc, MPSI

 

Ann is the owner of dPharmacy and has a particular interest in Health foods and supplements. Ann is a Tutor pharmacist and has gained numerous qualifications in alternative therapies - which she uses alongside her extensive clinical training. If you have any queries on medicines or health foods please reach out to us by email, text or phone.

 

 

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