About KP, those little red bumps

About KP, those little red bumps

Keratosis pilaris—or KP—is a common condition that causes little red bumps on the skin. In fact, approximately 40% of the world’s population has had KP at one time or another. KP is caused by a buildup of keratin—the protein found in skin and nails—in the openings of hair follicles. While KP is essentially harmless, it can become frustrating and irritating, because it is unattractive and often difficult to treat. KP is only one of many skin conditions that can cause little red bumps. Only your doctor can determine if you have KP.

Facts about KP

• Red or skin-colored patches of dry, bumpy skin
• Can resemble goose bumps or feel like sandpaper
• Often found on the upper arms, legs, or buttocks
• May also appear on the face
• Tends to run in families
• Worse during cold weather

Tips for treating KP

While there is no cure for KP, keeping the skin well hydrated and moisturized is recommended to help with the dry skin associated with KP, particularly in the winter months. Avoid extremely hot showers and baths, use a mild soap or cleanser, and apply a moisturizer every day.*

AmLactin^® can help with dry skin associated with KP

“There is no cure [for Keratosis Pilaris], but as an expert, I can tell you that you can manage the dry skin associated with KP by keeping the skin moist with a serious moisturizer, like AmLactin® moisturizing lotion or cream or extra strength AmLactin® XL.” —Alan Fleischer, MD Professor and Chair of Dermatology Wake Forest University School of Medicine Winston-Salem, North Carolina

To soften rough, dry skin associated with KP, you may need a heavy-duty moisturizer such as AmLactin® or AmLactin XL®. The AmLactin® family of body moisturizing lotions and creams contains a special alpha-hydroxy formulation that helps skin retain moisture. The unique formulation also works to exfoliate dead skin cells and softens skin, which improves the overall appearance. And because AmLactin® moisturizers are fragrance-free, they reduce the potential for skin irritation. For severe cases of dry skin, start with AmLactin XL® and then maintain healthy skin by switching to AmLactin® twice a day. For information on applying AmLactin®, click here.

*Moisturizers may worsen some skin conditions, so always follow your healthcare provider's skin care recommendations.
The AmLactin^® family of moisturizers is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition.