What is a keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common, harmless skin disorder which is also called “chicken skin” because the exaggerated keratin plugs around the hair follicles give the skin this characteristic appearance. The skin protein keratin is naturally found in hair, skin and nails and it over accumulates around the pores. There is no known reason for this overproduction and the condition seems to run in families.

 

The disorder is characterised by rough, dry skin with multiple painless bumps.  The bumps can be red, white, skin-toned, or darker brown depending on skin colour. The areas of the body where KP is found include the upper outer arms, thighs, buttocks and rarely cheeks. The skin can feel itchy in the affected areas, with the colder seasons being more problematic. People who are affected with KP have it for years and in some patients, it may clear up by itself.

KP is not infectious, and can therefore not be caught by another person if they accidentally touch the affected skin.

At Perfect Image Consultants, we understand how distressed patients may feel about having KP. We may use a multi-targeted treatment approach to manage the condition, including moisturizers, peels and intensive exfoliation. We are also able to treat the damage to the skin which is caused by picking and scratching the unsightly bumps.

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Obagi Medical Products have produced Kèraphine Body Smoothing Lotion which will help to smooth rough, bumpy skin, reduce dryness and restore healthy-looking skin in just 4 weeks.

Contact Perfect Image Consultants for more information on our bespoke body protocols using Obagi.

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