KP spots, or keratosis pilaris (KP), is a common, harmless, long-term skin condition. It's characterized by small, rough bumps that often appear on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and cheeks. These bumps are caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that makes up skin, hair, and nails. The excess keratin blocks hair follicles, resulting in the characteristic bumpy texture.
Understanding Keratosis Pilaris (KP)
- Chronic Condition: KP is a long-lasting condition, often persisting for years.
- Harmless: While unsightly, KP is not contagious or harmful to your health.
- Appearance: The bumps are usually small, rough, and may be white, red, or flesh-colored. They can feel like sandpaper.
- Common Locations: KP frequently affects the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and cheeks, but it can appear on other areas of the body.
- Causes: The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it's linked to a buildup of keratin. It's often associated with dry skin and sometimes eczema.
- Treatment: While there's no cure, various treatments can alleviate symptoms and improve the appearance of the bumps. These include moisturizing, exfoliating, and using topical retinoids or creams containing alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). The condition often improves with age.
Several sources confirm this information: the Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/keratosis-pilaris/symptoms-causes/syc-20351149), the NHS (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/keratosis-pilaris/), Cleveland Clinic (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17758-keratosis-pilaris), and Healthline (https://www.healthline.com/health/keratosis-pilaris).
