Q: I’ve a bunch of small, tough bumps on my legs and arms. What are they, and the way can I eliminate them?
Possibly they seem like goose bumps — or the pores and skin of a plucked hen. Maybe they’re raised and really feel just a little bit like sandpaper.
These will be the indicators of keratosis pilaris, a standard pores and skin situation that may trigger tiny, painless bumps to look on the higher arms, thighs and buttocks, mentioned Dr. Amy Freeman, a dermatologist in Millburn, N.J.
The bumps are usually flesh-colored, however they could look pink or pink on lighter pores and skin tones and brown or black on darker pores and skin tones.
Whereas their look might be “distressing,” Dr. Freeman mentioned, keratosis pilaris bumps are innocent and infrequently go away on their very own. However, some folks can cope with flare-ups for his or her total lives.
What causes keratosis pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris occurs when keratin — a protein concerned in forming hair, pores and skin and nails — builds up and, together with useless pores and skin cells, clogs hair follicles, Dr. Freeman mentioned. These blockages are what trigger these small bumps.