I don’t think a day goes by that I don’t see someone concerned about this issue. If you are reading this article, you probably have the same problem.
There are many types of pimples that can appear in children, such as molluscum contagiosum or millium cysts. Acne can also appear at a very young age, in teenagers, or even in adult women. Rosacea can also cause pimples on the face.
With so many forms of pimples, what is wrong with you (or your little one)?
Well, if these pimples are not painful and are always there, stable, especially on the arms, thighs or cheeks, it is most likely keratosis pilaris.
What is keratosis pilaris?
They are non-itching, sometimes slightly red pimples that make the skin feel rough.
They are often found on the arms and thighs, but it is not uncommon to see them on the face, although they can also appear on other areas such as the forearms or trunk.
It is more common in children, but many people continue to have this skin type into adulthood. It is most common in people with atopic dermatitis, obesity, ichthyosis, type 1 diabetes, or Down syndrome.
More images of keratosis pilaris
How is it diagnosed?
Tests are usually not needed. A simple physical examination can easily lead to a diagnosis. It is important to distinguish this condition from other conditions that can cause pimples.
Why does it appear?
Keratosis pilaris is not an infection or allergy. It does not indicate an internal disease, nor is it a type of persistent acne. Let’s say that it is something “constitutional” of the person who has it: in the hair follicles of their arms and legs, small keratin plugs are formed, which are the ones that we observe and scratch to the touch.
Is it forever?
In most cases (especially in children), it gets better over time. In addition, pimples usually become less visible during the summer. This is attributed to less rubbing by the sleeves of clothing, but the reality is that we do not know this clearly.
How can it be improved?
Because this is specific to your skin type, it cannot be permanently cured, but there are ways to help make your skin smoother and the pimples less noticeable.
- Apply moisturizer. Just as proper hydration and replenishment of the lipid mantle softens the skin, it also makes pimples less noticeable.
- Exfoliate: You can do this with a glove, exfoliating cream brush. This procedure physically removes the keratin that clogs the pores.
- Use products with some urea, salicylic acid or lactic acid. These chemically break down the keratin, so if you use them daily, they can reduce the volume of pimples.
- If you do not see sufficient improvement, see a dermatologist. Occasionally, if the above measures are not sufficient, treatments such as retinoids or corticosteroids can be used to boost the improvement of the pimples. Of course, everything has to be controlled by a dermatologist.
In conclusion…
Keratosis pilaris is not a serious condition, but it can be annoying and aesthetically unpleasing. It can last for years and if you want to improve it, you can use different creams that soften the pimples by chemical or physical exfoliation. If this is not enough, consult a dermatologist.
Would you like me to evaluate your specific case? Make an online dermatological consultation with me and together we will find the best creams for your case.