What are these bumps on the back of my arms?

What are these tiny hard bumps on the back of my arms?  I hear this question almost daily from my clients. After a brief inspection, my usual response is, "It looks like Keratosis Pilaris."

Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common skin disorder seen in many people of all ages. It usually appears as numerous small, rough, red, or flesh tone bumps on the back of the upper arms, legs, buttocks, and sometimes cheeks. It is also known as "chicken skin" mimicking the bumpy flesh of a chicken. Aside from it not being very attractive, it is a harmless condition that is not contagious.

Though anyone can get KP, it is most commonly found on adolescents. Also, females may be more frequently affected than males. The exact cause is unknown, but it may present itself as a genetic disorder as well as a condition of extremely dry skin. The problem may also have to do with the overproduction of keratin, a protein found in the upper layer of the skin, hair and nails. The bumps in KP seemingly occurs from an excessive accumulation of keratin at the opening of each hair follicle. It can improve with age, or will often become milder during the summer months. But, in general it is a condition that can see periodic highs and lows where at times it can appear to be worsening and at other times greatly improving. It can also persists in adults who are aged well into their 40s and 50s.

There is no known cure for KP. But, there are treatments available that can improve the appearance of it. Although there are a number of treatments that prove to be effective, be aware that not all treatments will work the same for everyone. KP will sometimes spontaneously disappear completely on its own without treatment. Some of my clients have had temporary improvement following a consistent skincare routine of using mild cleansers (avoid soap) and moisturizing the affected area frequently with creams or lotions.

The best results may be achieved with a combination of at-home treatments like using lubricating products (2-3 times daily) and gently exfoliating (2-3 times wkly); and professional treatments like monthly facials, chemical peels and microdermabrasion.

See below for a list of over-the-counter products that I recommend for at-home treatment of KP.

Non-Fragrant Cleansers

• Cetaphil
• Aveeno
• Vegetable Glycerin Moisturizing Bars
• Dr. Bronners Magic Soap (Unscented)

Moisturizers

• Lubriderm
• Curel
• Cetaphil
• Epicuren

Gentle Exfoliators

• Archipelago Sugar Scrub
• Fresh Brown Sugar Scrub
• Aromafloria Salt Glow Scrub