Keratosis pilaris, also called chicken skin, is a common skin condition that leads to rough bumps on the skin. These can look like goosebumps.
Keratosis pilaris is usually not itchy and neither is it painful. However, occasionally some people experience itching.
Let’s talk in detail, about what it is, why some people may have itching, and how to reduce it.
Overview
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that causes rough bumps on the skin. The color of these bumps can vary depending on the skin tone of a person. These can be skin-colored, red, purple, brown, or black in color.
The most commonly involved areas include arms followed by legs, buttocks, face, and other areas.
These bumps form due to keratin build-up in the hair follicles. Keratin is a protein that is part of our hair, skin, and nails.
The exact cause of why it occurs is not known. There may be some role of genetic factors. It is often seen in young children, teenagers, and women.
It is also more often seen in people with a family history of keratosis pilaris, a history of atopic dermatitis, dry skin conditions, allergies, obesity, and diabetes.
Keratosis pilaris cannot be cured, however, it may go away by the age of 30. Some treatments may improve its appearance.
Possible reasons for itching
Keratosis pilaris is usually not itchy; however, some people experience itching. There is no clear explanation for why it is itchy in some people.
Below are the possible reasons which may contribute to itching.
1. History of another underlying skin condition
Dry skin itself can cause itching. Keratosis pilaris is often seen in people with atopic dermatitis and ichthyosis vulgaris. Both these conditions can lead to dry skin.
If you have keratosis pilaris along with these conditions, they may be causing dryness and itching.
2. Excessive dryness
Hot baths, harsh cleansers, and a dry environment can lead to dry skin. This can make keratosis pilaris worse and can cause itching.
3. Irritation from topical products
Keratosis pilaris is often treated with exfoliants like salicylic acid and retinoids like retinol. These ingredients when used too often or without adequate moisturizer can make one more prone to irritation and side effects of these topicals.
4. Variant of keratosis pilaris
Some variants of keratosis pilaris like keratosis pilaris rubra can present with rough red bumps which are inflamed. These may be itchy.
5. It may be some other skin condition
Keratosis pilaris may resemble other skin conditions like folliculitis which may be causing the itching. If you’re not sure what’s causing the bumps, it’s best to visit a doctor to get a proper diagnosis.
How to reduce itchiness?
If your keratosis pilaris is associated with itching, you can try the following home remedies:
1. Apply a cool compress
Apply a cool compress or an ice pack for 5-10 minutes to the affected area to relieve itching. You can also keep your moisturizer in the refrigerator and use it for the cooling effect.
2. Be gentle with your skin
Any tugging, rough and tight clothes, or scratching of the keratosis pilaris bumps can lead to irritation and inflammation. So, be gentle with your skin and wear loose breathable clothes made from soft fabrics.
3. Use lukewarm water
Hot water and long baths can deprive your skin of natural oils. Use lukewarm water to take a bath and keep your bath time short.
4. Oatmeal bath
Oats are known for their soothing and anti-itch properties. An oatmeal bath can relieve some itching.
5. Moisturizers
Dry skin may be the main culprit behind your itching. Make sure to moisturize twice daily or as needed. Look for a moisturizer based on urea and ammonium lactate.
These can hydrate the skin and get rid of layers of dead skin cells. This can ease the itching sensation.
6. Take a look at your treatment products
Are you using multiple products with strong active ingredients? If yes, maybe you need to switch some products in your routine. Use them alternatively or divide them in the morning and evening routine to avoid irritation.
In addition, make sure to moisturize your skin after using your treatment products.
7. Hair removal practices
Waxing and shaving to remove hair can sometimes irritate keratosis pilaris and can cause itching. If possible, go for laser hair removal.
8. Reduce stress
Stress and anxiety can make itching worse. So, use relaxation techniques like exercise, yoga, meditation, listening to music, and so on.
9. Visit a doctor
If gentle skin care and home remedies do not resolve itching and your itching is interfering with your daily activities, it’s best to see a doctor. They can examine the bumps and confirm the diagnosis.
They may recommend topical treatments like steroids to calm down the itching.
Key points
Keratosis pilaris, also referred to as ‘chicken skin’, can cause rough bumps on the skin, most commonly on the outer sides of the upper arms. These bumps feel like sandpaper, but keratosis pilaris usually doesn’t itch or hurt.
However, occasionally, these may be itchy. Gentle skincare and moisturizing the skin may relieve itching.
If the itching is severe, it’s best to see a doctor. They can examine the lesions and prescribe appropriate treatment.
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References
- Marqueling AL, Gilliam AE, Prendiville J, Zvulunov A, Antaya RJ, Sugarman J, Pang ML, Lee P, Eichenfield L, Metz B, Goldberg GN, Phillips RJ, Frieden IJ. Keratosis pilaris rubra: a common but underrecognized condition. Arch Dermatol. 2006 Dec;142(12):1611-6. doi: 10.1001/archderm.142.12.1611. PMID: 17178988.
- Pennycook KB, McCready TA. Keratosis Pilaris. [Updated 2022 Jun 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan.
- Maghfour J, Ly S, Haidari W, Taylor SL, Feldman SR. Treatment of keratosis pilaris and its variants: a systematic review. J Dermatolog Treat. 2022 May;33(3):1231-1242. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2020.1818678. Epub 2020 Sep 14. PMID: 32886029.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for information purposes only and does not replace medical advice.