What is it?
Keratosis pilaris, also called “chicken skin”, is a benign skin condition characterized by keratinized hair follicles. It is common in adolescents, especially those with a history of dry skin. It is usually found on the outer areas of the upper arms, thighs and less commonly, the facial cheeks.
It is not pruritic or painful and characterized by small, rough, follicular papules with the same color as the skin or light red. With facial involvement, background erythema is commonly seen.
What causes it?
It is caused by a plug of dead skin cells that forms around a hair follicle. “Chicken skin” is not contagious and is known to worsen in the winter months and may also worsen during pregnancy.
When to see a doctor?
Treatment for Keratosis pilaris usually isn’t necessary because the condition improves with age and usually disappears by age 30. But if the itch, dryness or the appearance of this disorder bothers you, treatment can help.