What causeskeratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris runs in families andis inherited from your parents. If one parent has the condition, there's a one in two chance that any children they have will also inherit it.

Keratosis pilaris occurs when too much keratin builds up in the skin's hair follicles.Keratin is a protein found in the tough outer layer of skin, which causes the surface of the skin to thicken, hence the name "keratosis".

The excess keratin blocks the hair follicles with plugs of hard, rough skin. The tiny plugs widen thepores, giving the skin a spotty appearance.

It's often associated with other dry skin conditions, such as eczema andichthyosis, which make the rash worse.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018