Banish bumpy skin - Your Community Health Forum - keratosis pilaris - Brief Article

Natural Health, April, 2003

A READER from Centralia, Mo., wanted to know the cause of the bumpy skin on her arms and thighs and how to get rid of it.

LESLIE COKER, M.D., a doctor from Charleston, S.C., responded via email: This is a common benign condition called keratosis pilaris. Many people, especially fair-skinned individuals, complain of these tiny rough bumps, which look like goose bumps and are centered around hair follicles, typically on the backs of the arms and thighs. Keratosis pilaris is a genetic condition and not curable, but you can improve the appearance of your arms and thighs by applying heavy cream to damp skin.

HEATHER PATRICCO from Westfield, N.J., responded via email: I believe that you are suffering from keratosis pilaris, commonly found in people with dry skin and a vitamin A deficiency. In my case, it did not appear until after the birth of my first child. I use a high-quality moisturizer and exfoliate frequently. You also might want to check out www .keratosispilaris.org, a website that serves as a clearinghouse for medical information and provides the support of a community of sufferers.

CRYSTAL RAYMOND from Edmonton, Alberta, responded via email: I had bumpy red skin on my arms for years. it disappeared after I started cup of ground flaxseeds with my oatmeal.