09/19/2008

TREATING ROUGH, BUMPY SKIN

The condition known as keratosis pilaris (KP) may be very common and quite harmless, but it can be unsightly. Rough, bumpy skin on the backs of arms, buttocks, and thighs may look like collections of tiny pimples, but they are actually buildups of dead cells around individual hair follicles. While this chronic problem can be treated, it cannot be cured. Inexplicably, KP may improve during the summer months and may even get better with age. If you are impatient and wish to rid your skin of KP, you might want to try chemical peels. This treatment utilizes mild acids “burn off” the top layer of skin, leaving it noticeably smoother. Two or three monthly treatments are likely to yield significant improvement.

The way we feel about our appearance can affect our self-esteem and how we interact with people at home and work. The early diagnosis of a skin problem, such as keratosis pilaris, increases the likelihood of a successful treatment program. Please call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to schedule an evaluation of your skin. Our office incorporates the most advanced diagnostic and treatment services for a range of conditions, including keratosis pilaris, growths, moles, and inflections. Our practice is located at 103 N. Haven, Suite 7, Elmhurst. We accept most medical insurance, Visa, and MasterCard.

P.S. Daily use of exfoliators such as retinol, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acid keep KP at bay by preventing follicles from becoming plugged.