What Are The Causes Of Keratosis Pilaris In Toddlers?

Keratosis pilaris in toddlers is a harmless and common skin condition that leads to rough & dry patches and little bumps, usually present on the upper arms, cheeks, thighs, or buttocks. Generally, such bumps don't itch or hurt.

What Is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is also known as a "chicken skin" that leads to rough bumps. They are at times brown or red. This condition as said above usually appears in a few places and very rarely on the face. Apart from toddlers, teenagers and pregnant women can get this condition. There is no cure for this harmless skin condition and as one reaches 30 years it subdues.

Symptoms Of Keratosis Pilaris In Toddlers

Keratosis pilaris in children has symptoms such as;

• Painless small bumps, characteristically on the thighs, cheeks, buttocks, or upper arms.
• Rough and dry skin in the regions with bumps.
• Skin becomes drier and worse during seasonal modifications due to low humidity.
• sandpaper-like bumps like goose flesh.
• Itchy & irritable skin
• Different colored bumps such as flesh-colored, red, pink, white, brown, or black.

Causes Of Keratosis Pilaris In Toddlers

Keratosis pilaris is the result of piling up of keratin, the protein that safeguards skin from infections and other destructive things. The mass forms a plug that obstructs the introductory of a hair follicle.

Persons with dry skin are more prone to this condition and this usually worsens during the winter months. People with certain skin ailments such as eczema or atopic dermatitis can also get this. Genetic disorders can also lead to such a condition.

How To Diagnose Keratosis Pilaris?

A doctor can know if one has keratosis pilaris by just looking at the skin and no further tests are needed.

How To Treat Keratosis Pilaris In Toddlers?

At present, there is no cure for it and generally goes away with age. However, using special creams and moisturizers that are not harsh on children is one way. These creams usually have lactic acid and urea which are known to improve the looks of the condition. However, ensure if they are safe to be used for your children.

Tips To Take Care Of Keratosis Pilaris In Toddlers

The only way out to see keratosis pilaris not getting worse in children is to maintain their personal hygiene. You may rely on cleansing soaps, creams, and moisturizers that are safe for kids. Besides, the surroundings and even the adults should maintain personal hygiene. If the condition worsens, meet your dermatologist.

When To See A Doctor?

As said above, a cure for keratosis pilaris isn't yet found, and also no additional treatment is needed. However, if one is concerned regarding the appearance of your child's skin, consult a skin specialist or your family doctor. They may suggest a temporary treatment if needed.

Lifestyle Changes And Home Remedies For Keratosis Pilaris

Self-help measures will not stop keratosis pilaris or cure it permanently. However, they could enhance the appearance of the condition and the skin.

Make Use Of Warm Water And Restrict Your Bath Time

Long hours of bathing and extremely hot water removes oils from the skin as such limit the bath time besides lessening the shower period for nearly 10 minutes or even less. Make use of warm water and not hot water.

Be Gentle On Your Skin

Avoid drying soaps as they make the skin harsh. Gently exfoliate (remove) the dead skin using a loofah or a washcloth. Stringent scrubbing or removing of hair follicle plugs can irritate the skin and worsen the situation. After bathing or washing pat gently or blot the skin using a towel. Doing so will retain the moisture.

Try Medicinal Creams

Applying an over-the-counter lotion that has urea, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acid or salicylic acid is the best method. Such creams aid in loosening and removing dead skin cells. They even soften and moisturize dry skin.

Moisturize

Apply moisturizer when the skin is still wet after a bath. Moisturizers should have lanolin (Lansinoh, Medela). Even petroleum jelly or glycerine does the trick for you. Such ingredients will soothe dry skin and aid in trapping the moisture. Thicker moisturizers help best. Apply as many times as possible all through the day.

You can also use humidifiers in your rooms besides avoiding wearing tight clothes as they irritate the skin.

Keratosis pilaris in toddlers isn't a condition to worry about except when the condition triggers some other health issues. Be patient to see the condition lessening with age.