Keratosis pilaris: A condition that occurs due to accumulation of excess dead skin cells under the dermal layer
They can appear either as single, solid, thick growths on the surface of the skin or as patches.
They may be red, white or a combination of these and can range in colour from light pink to dark brown. These areas of excessive shedding of cells may cause pustules and bumps in the skin.
Keratosis pilaris is an inherited disorder that leads to the accumulation of keratin on the surface of the skin. The cells die and shed through the skin pores leaving behind a scaly patch on the surface. It is very difficult to differentiate keratin from normal skin pigmentation. In extreme cases, the skin becomes thick and coarse. Skin affected by keratosis pilaris may experience itchiness or irritation.
Skin that is affected by keratosis pilaris is very sensitive to external factors such as temperature and sunlight exposure. Thus, individuals with this condition are at risk of developing psoriasis on their hands, elbows, feet and knees. On the other hand, individuals affected by keratosis may also experience rashes and eczema.
There are several types of skin diseases that affect the body. All of these are caused by internal imbalances within the body. Keratosis pilaris is not an internal disorder; hence there is no reason to believe that its presence on the surface of the skin is due to some internal imbalance. The accumulation of keratin in the skin is mainly due to a poor diet and lack of exercise.
Keratin is a protein found in keratin-rich structures such as hair shafts, bones, nails and fingernails. It is present in the skin and the nails, which are deposited on the skin surface and helps the skin to retain moisture.
Keratin plays a vital role in the maintenance of proper collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid levels. When the amount of keratin in the skin decreases, the skin cells start to deteriorate leading to skin dryness, flakiness and cracks.
Keratosis pilaris can be treated successfully using a variety of treatments. Some of the common treatments include topical solutions containing salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and retinoids. Other treatments involve the use of lasers, chemical peels, radio waves and even surgery. These treatments, however, have side effects that may interfere with normal lifestyle.
Laser therapy is another effective treatment for keratosis pilaris, where the laser is used to eliminate the deposits of keratin in the skin.
The treatment involves applying the gel to the affected areas and leaving it on for approximately three hours
Another treatment is the Chemical Peel, which involves the use of an acid-based cream. The acid-based creams remove the deposits of keratin and replace them with new ones. Chemical peels are also very effective for keratosis pilaris, but they can cause minor pain and redness.
There are also surgical techniques for the removal of the deposits of keratin in the skin. These surgical techniques include dermabrasion, microdermabrasion and photothermolysis. These surgical techniques are effective for those who suffer from very severe cases of keratosis pilaris. The surgical techniques include microdermabrasion, where thin layers of the skin are removed and then replaced with fresh skin.
Photothermolysis is another effective treatment for keratosis pilaris. This involves exposing the affected areas to ultraviolet (UV) light. The ultraviolet light destroys the keratin in the skin, causing the cells to break down and die.
For more intense cases of keratosis pilaris, it may take more than one treatment to achieve relief. In extreme cases, surgery may be required to remove the excess skin or the affected areas and regenerate the collagen and elastin. Laser resurfacing and Chemical Peels may be needed to treat severe cases of keratosis pilaris.