Keratosis Pilaris

[Jo]

It was nice to see that so many other people have this problem.  I wanted to get more information on  the Am-Lactin lotion I was reading about on some of the responses.  Is this something I can pick up at the drug store?  A couple of years ago my derm. had me use some type of lotion but I don't remember if it was this or not.  Also, do you suggest using a loofah after the lotion is applied?  As much as I know I am not supposed to be in the sun with my fair skin in the summner it is the only thing I can do that seems to help clear these bumps up!  Is it common for some of these bumps to "pop".  I have noticed that sometimes I can squeeze them and a white substance comes out.  Is this common for Keratosis?  Thanks for you time.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Jo:

There is a prescription product called Lac-Hydrin which has the same formula as Am-Lactin.  It is advisable to use a loofah (or Buf Puf) after applying it.  I'm not sure what "pops out," since the bumps of keratosis pilaris are solid ones, made up of keratin.  Perhpas you have a pimple or two mixed in.  Some people get better in the summer, though by no means all.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[kera]

I have the same thing too - The bumps from the keratosis eventually develop into what looks like a small white head on the tip, but they are ALLOVER - you can pop them, and a white substance comes out of them. They are not pimples, it's part of the Keratosis I think. It's weird I know, and I have had other friends of mine tell me the same thing. What is it that is in them?

[Dr. Stevenson]

Dr.- those white "substances" that come out are actually trapped hair follicles. Keratosis Pilaris is in fact a term, which defines the skin as a “trapper". When skin cells die and new one's are formed, the skin usually brushes off- but with Keratosis, skin cells get trapped in the hair follicle cells and create a raised bump. These bumps are usually found on the upper arms of individuals (and other places) and can be irritating because the person who has them may not feel comfortable with them (of course). The best treatment currently is tanning (based on my patients- but lac-hydrin seems to help). Through a limited tanning treatment plan, most patients have lowered their bumps. Tanning seems to be a new treatment for a lot of Acute-Dermatitis and other skin problems. If anyone needs more information, simply research the term Keratosis and information is becoming plentiful on this subject. The only concern we Dr.’s have is the excessive tanning use which can harm your skin- so anyone with Keratosis; use tanning as an aid- especially in the warm months when you are in your swimming gear! Or- If your skin problem can only be seen by you, realize this and understand that people are not staring at your arms!
Hopefully this information was useful!
Cheers.

[Shantel]

I too have Keratosis Pilaris and I have finally found a product that is clearing it up!!!!  I have used the Retin A products and the Lac Hydrin and Am Lactin....nothing has worked ... until now!!!  Okay guys, you have got to try this.  My arms are clearer than they have been in YEARS!! It's not even a keratosis pilaris targeted product, i just happened to stumble upon it...and it has worked beautifully.  

It's called Neutrogena Multi Vitamin Acne Treatment.  I know, KP isn't acne, but for some reason this stuff is clearing the bumps!  For best results, use a loofah in the shower with a moisturizer, then apply this stuff after you get out of shower.  I saw results in as little as 2 applications!  It has moisturizers and vitamins in it, so I'm not sure what exactly is causing it to work....but it does!! Go get some! It's only about $4 a bottle.  I am so happy!!!!