Hitting a rough (skin) patch

Keratosis pilaris is one of the most common skin conditions in the world — and one of the most annoying too!

Actress Nicole Kidman suffers from a skin condition that many others are struggling with as well – dry and rough patches and tiny bumps on the back of the arms and thighs. It is known as Keratosis pilaris or KP.

Most often, KP is a genetic condition and occurs due to a lack of natural exfoliation. It is widely prevalent and tends to run in families, there is as yet no understanding of why some people are more prone to it than others. Though it is hard, even impossible, to cure KP, its manifestation can be minimised.

Vandana Luthra, founder, VLCC, a globally-recognised name in the beauty, health and fitness industry, explains what keratosis pilaris is, and outlines the best ways to treat it. “Keratosis pillaris is a genetic condition often associated with atopic dermatitis (allergic genetic skin disease). It is considered a normal variant of skin too,” says Vandana. “It is usually asymptomatic, characterised by tiny pin sized bumps on the outer aspects of upper arms and thighs. It just makes the skin rough, and there’s no itching, burning or stinging.”

Associated with dry skin, KP feels like a constant case of goosebumps. It is seen in children as well as teenagers. Vandana underlines the need to differentiate KP from other skin issues like Phrynoderma caused by Vitamin A deficiency. “It usually clears by the age of 30,” she says, adding, “In children we should look for other signs of Atopy like Childhood Asthma, skin allergies and allergic rhinitis.”

Keratosis Pilaris is a very common genetic condition that affects the upper arms, thighs, back and face. KP is a genetic condition often associated with atopic dermatitis (allergic genetic skin disease). It is considered a normal variant of skin too. It usually clears by the age of 30 — Vandana Luthra

MANY CAUSES HAVE BEEN POSTULATED FOR KP. THEY INCLUDE

1. Genetic predilection

2. Association with atopic dermatitis

3. Idiopathic factors

“Associated with dry skin, Keratosis pilaris feels like a constant case of goosebumps. It is seen in children as well as teenagers” — Vandana Luthra, founder of VLCC

Nicole Kidman reportedly suffers from KP. Her fair skin and Irish background make her more susceptible to these reddish bumps.

Keratosis pillaris is a selflimiting, benign, noninfectious condition associated with dry skin. Reassuring and counselling patients regarding regular use of soft cleansers and moisturisers, and encouraging them to seek dermatologists’ advice in case of severe outbreak, are the optimum ways to handle KP. Severe forms are distressing and need to be addressed by a clinical dermatologist