CN is curious…I have these little red bumps on my arms that my dermatologist says are a condition called “keratosis.” Do you know anything about this?
The Beauty Brains reply:
You’re probably talking about Keratosis Pilaris, a harmless condition in which your follicles get plugged up and irritated. What’s surprising is the how wide spread this problem. An estimated 40% of the population suffers from this affliction. Here’s the quick scoop from The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology:
“Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition commonly seen on the upper arms, buttocks and thighs. The skin cells that normally flake off as a fine dust from the skin form plugs in the hair follicles. These appear as small pimples that have a dry ”sandpaper” feeling. They are usually white but sometimes rather red. They usually don’t itch or hurt.
Keratosis pilaris is particularly common in teenagers on the upper arms. It may occur in babies where it tends to be most obvious on the cheeks. It may remain for years but generally gradually disappears usually before age 30. Keratosis pilaris is unsightly but completely harmless. It is usually worse during the winter months or other times of low humidity when skin dries out, and may worsen during pregnancy or after childbirth.”
The Beauty Brains bottom line
Since so many people have this condition it’s suprising that the major skin care companies aren’t marketing products designed to “reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris.” Maybe as the problem gets more publicity we’ll see a response in the market place. Remember, you heard it here first!