This image displays tiny, scaly elevations of the skin around the hair follicle typical of keratosis pilaris. This image displays small, scaly bumps on each hair follicle typical of keratosis pilaris. This image displays small bumps on the hair follicles typical of keratosis pilaris. This image displays scaling and tiny bumps at the hair follicle typical of keratosis pilaris. The pronounced appearance of each hair follicle is typical of keratosis pilaris. This image displays the pink bumps typical of keratosis pilaris.
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Keratosis Pilaris:
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

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Picture of Keratosis Pilaris: This image displays tiny, scaly elevations of the skin around the hair follicle typical of keratosis pilaris. Divider line
This image displays tiny, scaly elevations of the skin around the hair follicle typical of keratosis pilaris.
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Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe
Keratosis pilaris usually improves with time. However, it is generally considered to be a long-lasting (chronic) skin condition. Treatments are aimed at controlling the rough bumps, not curing them. Keratosis pilaris bumps will come back if therapy is stopped.

To treat the bumps of keratosis pilaris, the doctor may recommend a topical cream or lotion containing:
  • Prescription-strength alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid)
  • Prescription-strength urea
  • A retinoid such as tretinoin or tazarotene
  • High concentrations of propylene glycol
For keratosis pilaris that is itchy or inflamed, the doctor may recommend the short-term use of a topical corticosteroid to reduce the inflammation.

Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

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