Too old for Keratosis Pilaris?

I am 30 yrs old and it seems I have developed keratosis pilaris on the front and backs of my thighs.  Everything I've read about this skin condition suggests it occurs in teens and disappears by the 30's.  Yet, I noticed after getting my legs waxed few weeks ago that the skin on my legs had turned very pimply, like goosebumps.  I can see every hair follicle on my legs - almost like freckles.  I thought it was because of the waxing, but now I'm not sure. I don't think I have a vitamin A deficiency as I have taken vitamins everyday for years.  I use lotion daily, but my skin seems to be dry anyway.  We do have very hard water here in Houston.  Could that be a factor in the dry skin?  I also noticed my mother seems to have the same problem on her thighs. We both have very pretty legs except for this problem.  Will this go away ever? And why did it occur so late?  Help!!!

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Stephanie:

Keratosis pilaris is a hereditary condition in which little bumps of keratin (the protein which makes up hair and nails and the upper layer of skin) appear in hair openings, generally on the outer arms and thighs.  Kids get it on the cheeks, but grow out of it in adolescence.  The arm and leg bumps don't go away, but they do fluctuate, and I don't know why.  (It doesn't seem to be worse in the cold weather.)

My advice: get an alpha-hydroxy-containing moisturizer, apply it after a shower and then scruff with a loofah or Buf-Puf sponge for 20-30 seconds a day (less if this irrtates.)  If that doesn't help enough, have your physician prescribe a stronger exfoliant.  Perform this treatment just until you skin feels and looks smooth enough, then stop until it bumps up again.

Best.

Dr. R

Disclaimer:  The information provided in this forum is presented for general educational purposes only.  Specific questions you have pertaining to your health should always be directed to your personal physician.