Keratosis Pilaris (Rough and Bumpy Skin)
Keratosis pilaris is a very common and harmless skin condition characterized by tiny rough bumps and uneven skin texture. It most commonly affects the outer areas of the upper arms but can also appear on the thighs, buttocks, cheeks, and other areas of the body. While keratosis pilaris is not painful or medically concerning, many patients find it aesthetically bothersome and are looking for ways to smooth and refine the texture of the affected skin.
What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris occurs when keratin, a protective protein found in the skin, builds up and blocks the hair follicles, forming small plugs that create the characteristic rough, bumpy texture. The exact reason why some people develop this buildup is not fully understood, but it is known to have a strong genetic component, meaning it tends to run in families. It is more common in people with dry skin and can be more noticeable during the winter months when the air is drier and the skin loses more moisture.
Other factors that can contribute to or worsen keratosis pilaris include hormonal changes, particularly during puberty or pregnancy, and certain conditions such as eczema or ichthyosis, which are associated with a higher likelihood of developing keratosis pilaris.
Can Keratosis Pilaris Be Treated?
While keratosis pilaris cannot be permanently cured, its appearance can be significantly improved with consistent at-home skincare habits and clinical treatments. The most effective approach combines regular exfoliation and moisturizing with periodic clinical treatments that smooth and refine the skin's texture more deeply than at-home care alone can achieve.
At-Home Care for Keratosis Pilaris
Consistent daily skincare is the foundation of managing keratosis pilaris effectively. The following habits can make a meaningful difference to the texture and appearance of affected skin over time:
- Moisturizing generously every day, ideally immediately after bathing while the skin is still slightly damp, using a rich cream or lotion that contains urea, lactic acid, or glycolic acid to help soften the keratin plugs
- Exfoliating gently one to two times per week using a physical or chemical exfoliant to remove the buildup of dead skin cells and keratin from the surface
- Avoiding hot showers and baths, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dryness and bumpy texture
- Using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that does not over-strip the skin
- Using a humidifier during dry winter months to help maintain the skin's moisture levels
Clinical Keratosis Pilaris Treatments at SpaMedica
HydraFacial: The HydraFacial uses its patented vortex extraction and infusion technology to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin simultaneously. For patients with keratosis pilaris, the extraction step effectively removes the keratin plugs and dead skin buildup that create the rough, bumpy texture, while the infusion of hydrating serums replenishes moisture and supports skin barrier health. Regular HydraFacial treatments can produce a noticeable and sustained improvement in the smoothness and texture of skin affected by keratosis pilaris.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels, particularly those containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic or lactic acid, are effective at dissolving the keratin buildup responsible for keratosis pilaris bumps and promoting the turnover of new, smoother skin cells. The depth and formulation of the peel can be customized to the severity of the condition and the individual patient's skin type at your consultation.
How Much Does Keratosis Pilaris Treatment Cost?
The cost of treatment depends on the procedure selected and the number of sessions required. Contact us for current pricing information.
Solutions
HydraFacial
The HydraFacial uses its patented vortex extraction and infusion technology to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the skin simultaneously. For patients with keratosis pilaris, the extraction step effectively removes the keratin plugs and dead skin buildup that create the rough, bumpy texture, while the infusion of hydrating serums replenishes moisture and supports skin barrier health.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels, particularly those containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic or lactic acid, are effective at dissolving the keratin buildup responsible for keratosis pilaris bumps and promoting the turnover of new, smoother skin cells. The depth and formulation of the peel can be customized to the severity of the condition and the individual patient's skin type at your consultation.
