Keratosis Pilaris

Itchy skin bumps can be a symptom of keratosis pilaris, a harmless skin condition that affects about 80% of American adolescents. If you or your child need help managing keratosis pilaris, you can rely on the expertise of the providers at Mountaintop Dermatology. In addition to diagnostic skin evaluations, Frank Samarin, MD, provides personalized care plans using medicated creams, laser treatments, and other therapies to protect your skin. Call the Colorado Springs, Colorado, office today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for keratosis pilaris or book an appointment online.

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that causes bumps to develop on the skin, especially on the buttocks, arms, and legs. The bumps are small and resemble the goosebumps you get when cold.

Keratosis pilaris is harmless and results from the build-up of excess keratin, a protein found in the outer layer of your skin, hair, fingernails, and toenails. The condition is common in babies and adolescents, but can also affect adults.

Other factors that can increase your risk for keratosis pilaris include having fair skin or underlying health issues like:

• Asthma
• Eczema
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Hypothyroidism
• Vitamin A deficiency

Mountaintop Dermatology provides diagnostic evaluations for symptoms of keratosis pilaris. Dr. Samarin creates a treatment plan using medicated creams and other therapies to ease your symptoms and improve the health of your skin.

What are the symptoms of keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris can cause symptoms that affect how you feel about your skin’s appearance. Symptoms of the condition can also interfere with your quality of life.

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Mountaintop Dermatology if you experience unusual bumps on your skin or:

• Itchy skin
• Dry skin
• Discolored skin bumps
• Sandpaper-like patches of skin

Dr. Samarin examines your skin to identify areas affected by keratosis pilaris. He may also remove a sample of your skin to test for infections or other issues contributing to bumps.

How is keratosis pilaris treated?

Mountaintop Dermatology provides comprehensive care for adults and children with keratosis pilaris. The goal of treatment is to ease any discomfort you have and improve the appearance of your skin. 

Your initial treatment plan may include a high-quality moisturizer to rehydrate your skin and soften the bumps. Dr. Samarin can also recommend an exfoliating scrub to remove excess keratin and dead skin cells.

When lotion isn’t working well to ease itching and irritation, Dr. Samarin may prescribe a medicated cream that helps reduce keratin build-up. He might also suggest laser treatments to reduce the visibility of discoloration that keratosis pilaris bumps can cause.

Dr. Samarin continues to monitor your progress with treatment to ensure your skin is healthy and the bumps don’t return. 

Call Mountaintop Dermatology today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for keratosis pilaris symptoms, or book an appointment online.