User:Mr. Ibrahem/Keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a skin condition that results in multiple small red bumps in skin. It is generally not itchy or painful. The most commonly affected areas are the back of the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. Less frequently the face, chest, or forearms may be involved. Often it gets better during the summer and worse during the winter. It may be associated with other medical conditions and may result in psychological distress.

KP has an autosomal dominant genetic inheritance. It is associated with obesity, atopic dermatitis, ichthyosis vulgaris, pregnancy, diabetes, and rarely cancer. It may also be associated with a number of genetic syndromes. The underlying mechanism is not completely understood. Proposals include that it is an abnormality in the process of depositing the keratin in hair follicles, abnormalities in the hair shaft, or both. Diagnosis is usually based on the skin's appearance; however, dermoscopy may be useful in unclear cases.

There is no cure; though, the condition often improves with time. Treatments may improve the appearance. This may include applying moisturizers and medications such as lactic acid, salicylic acid, urea, or retinoids to the skin. Fractional carbon dioxide lasers and YAG laser therapies may also be tried. The condition is common. Onset is often in later childhood with up to 80% affected, with it still present in about 40% of adults. Though others report rates of 0.8% to 34% of the population.