Pilar keratosis, also known as follicular or pilar keratosis, is a very common skin alteration that leads to the appearance of reddish or whitish balls, slightly hardened, on the skin, leaving the skin looking like chicken skin.
This alteration, generally, does not cause itching or pain and can appear in any part of the body, although it is more common in the arms, thighs, face and in the butt region.
Follicular keratosis is a mainly genetic condition and, therefore, has no cure, only treatment, which is usually done through the use of some creams that can help hydrate the skin, disguising the pellets.
Creams indicated to treat
The keratosis pilaris usually disappears with time, however, it is possible to use some creams to disguise this alteration and moisturize the skin. Some of the most recommended creams by dermatologists are:
- Creams with salicylic acid or urea, such as Epydermy or Eucerin, which remove dead skin cells, promoting deeper skin hydration. The use of these creams can cause slight redness and a burning sensation at the application site, but it disappears in a few minutes; Creams with retinoic acid or Vitamin A, such as Nivea or Vitacid, which promote adequate hydration of the skin layers, reducing the appearance of pellets on the skin.
Usually, the balls of follicular keratosis tend to decrease with time and with the use of these creams. However, it may take several years before they disappear completely, which usually happens after the age of 30.
In addition, it is also important to take other precautions such as avoiding bathing in very hot water, not taking more than 10 minutes, moisturizing the skin after bathing and avoid rubbing clothes and towels on the skin, for example. It is also recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, to use sunscreen and, in more advanced cases, the dermatologist may recommend performing aesthetic procedures, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion, for example. Understand what microdermabrasion is and how it is done.
Main causes of follicular keratosis
Pilar keratosis is a mainly genetic condition characterized by excessive production of keratin in the skin and, when left untreated, can develop into pimple-like lesions that can become inflamed and leave dark spots on the skin.
Despite being a genetic condition, it is benign, leading only to problems related to aesthetics. In addition, some factors may favor the appearance of these pellets, such as wearing tight clothes, dry skin and autoimmune diseases.
People who have allergic diseases, such as asthma or rhinitis, are more likely to develop keratosis pilaris. However, the lack of vitamin A can also lead to its appearance, which is why it is important to invest in the consumption of vitamin A source foods such as cabbage, tomatoes and carrots, for example. Discover other foods rich in vitamin A.
