Some people grow up with a constant or reappearing rash on the skin that looks like goosebumps, but do not know what the condition is or where it came from. The condition does not pose a problem for most, but the appearance of blotchy skin that feels like goosebumps may cause a cosmetic concern for some, while others may find the condition mildly irritable. There is a name for the unfavorable and frequent visitor: keratosis pilaris.
Identification
Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that causes a rash on the skin, creating an appearance on the skin that looks like plucked chicken flesh or goosebumps. The outbreak can appear anywhere on the body, but the upper arms, shoulders, thighs and back are the most common areas affected by the rash.
Causes
The American Dermatology Association says that up to 40 percent of the world's population develops the genetic skin condition of keratosis pilaris. Dry skin is the underlying perpetrator. Dry skin can occur for many reasons, but with keratosis pilaris, a buildup of keratin plugs forms in the hair follicles. The enlarged hair follicles give the skin the appearance of goosebumps.
Characteristics
The condition of keratosis pilaris produces blotchy patches on the skin that look like small, flesh or pink-colored bumps. At first glance, the rash may appear as small pimples or developing acne. The skin may feel rough to the touch and occasionally itch, but any itchiness is due to the irritation of dry skin, unlike the constant itch that poison ivy provokes. Certain fabrics may cause agitation around the rash or cloths may rub up against the affected area and cause redness and irritation. Usually, the rash is inconspicuous and unnoticeable unless inspecting the skin up close.
Time Frame
The bumps do not always appear on the skin, as the rash may disappear for a time and return later on. The rash may develop or recur in response to environmental or seasonal changes. A study published in the June 2004 edition of the British Medical Journal found that 80 percent of the participants who had keratosis pilaris, experienced seasonal variations with the severity of symptoms. Forty-nine percent of patients experienced a higher severity of symptoms in the summer vs. 47 percent in the winter.
Treatment
The intensity and recurrence of the rash usually improves with age, with or without medical intervention. If patients desire treatment, topical applications that contain a strong concentration of urea or lactic acid can help improve conditions of the rash. Dr. Alan Fleischer, a professor of dermatology at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, advises the use of AmLactin---an over-the-counter moisturizer that contains urea and lactic acid---for managing keratosis pilaris. Urea, like lactic acid, is a natural moisturizer that breaks down the tough, dry layer of the epidermis so skin regenerates. When used with corticosteroids, urea can assist with the penetration of corticosteroids and other topical applications prescribed by a doctor if needed.
Warnings
A serious medical condition could also be the cause of a rash that looks like goosebumps. A report published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology shows how a patient who appears to have the condition of keratosis pilaris may factually have an allergic reaction to penicillin. Other conditions, such as an allergic reaction to skin care products, poison ivy or other environmental factors may cause a skin reaction that causes small, chicken-flesh areas on the skin.
References
- AAD.org: Dry Skin and Keratosis Pilaris
- British Journal of Dermatology; "Natural History of keratosis pilaris"; Andreas W. Arnold; June 2004
- Experts Recommend Moisturizers With Lactic Acid To Manage Their Dry Skin Associated With Keratosis Pilaris
- Southern Cross Medical Library: Keratosis Pilaris
- AJDVL: Onychomadesis, Keratosis Pilaris Like Eruptions Symblepheron and Pseudo-conjunctival Cysts As Late Sequelae of Penicillin Allergy
