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Keratosis Pilaris  diagnosis, treatment & medications

Connect with an Online Dermatologist today! Medications delivered to your preferred pharmacy 

Keratosis Pilaris Treatment FAQ

Can a Dermatologist treat Keratosis Pilaris at DermCafé?

Absolutely. Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is easily identifiable on photos and have great treatments options

What are the symptoms?

​KP causes the following changes on the sides of your upper arms, thighs and/or cheeks:

  • Feel rough and dry like sandpaper

  • Resemble the skin of a plucked chicken or goosebumps

  • Become more noticeable in winter or a dry climate

  • Itch

  • Appear in different colours, including the same colour as your skin, white, red, pinkish purple (on fair skin), and brownish black (on dark skin)

What causes keratosis pilaris?

KP is a genetic condition. 

People of all ages and races have this common skin condition. For most people, it begins at one of the following times:

  • Before 2 years of age

  • During the teenage years

KP can also continue into one’s adult years. Women are a bit more likely to have KP.

You're more likely to have KP if you have one or more of the following:

  • Close blood relatives who have KP

  • Asthma

  • Dry skin

  • Eczema 

  • Excess body weight 

  • Hay fever

  • Ichthyosis vulgaris (a rare skin condition that causes very dry skin)

 

KP is not contagious. We get keratosis pilaris when dead skin cells clog our pores.

How is it treated?

This skin condition is harmless, so you don’t need to treat it.

If the itch, dryness, or the appearance of your skin bothers you, treatment can help. A Dermatologist can create a treatment plan that addresses your concerns, which may include:

  • Medical-level moisturizers

  • Topical medicines

  • Behavioural directives for showering, exfoliating and more

What is DermCafé?

Connect with a DermCafé Dermatologist today! 

We’re a Digital Dermatology Centre that aims to provide all Canadians with equitable, accessible, convenient and modern dermatology care.

Simply submit your symptom info and skin photos online and connect with an online dermatologist at your convenience.

Visit our How This Work page to learn more. 

Step 1

Submit your Symptom Info and Photos online

Step 2

Book your Online Appointment

Step 4

Access Your Online Results Anytime

Choose your preferred Pharmacy for medication delivery

Download DermCafé Info Sheets, bloodwork forms and Sick Notes, and book follow-up appointments when needed

Step 3

Audio/Video Visit with Your Dermatologist

OHIP/MSP-covered visits require a Referral by another Physician/Nurse Practitioner. Or, book an appointment with our Family Doctor first.

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