iStock/russaquarius

Understanding keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (KP), sometimes called “chicken skin,” is a common, harmless, genetic condition that causes dry, rough patches of skin and tiny bumps, most often on the back of the arms. “Skin feels like ‘chicken skin’ or sandpaper, and it is oftentimes mistaken for small pimples,” says Samer Jaber, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and founder of Washington Square Dermatology. “It can also affect the thighs and buttocks of adults and cheeks of young children.” More than 50 percent of all children and teenagers and 40 percent of all adults have some degree of KP, so if you’ve experienced it, you’re certainly not alone. Keratosis pilaris is thought to occur from an excessive buildup of keratin around hair follicles, which may trap and prevent them from reaching the surface, causing bumps on the skin. “Unfortunately, there is no cure for KP, but it usually improves when you reach adulthood, and by our 20s most people will have seen a significant improvement,” Dr. Jaber says. “It’s also better in the summer and worse in the winter when skin is dryer.” (If you’re experiencing seasonal dryness, check out these surprisingly helpful secrets to fighting dry skin.) In the meantime, there are many treatments that can drastically, if not fully, reduce the appearance of KP.