Bianca Te, BSc, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Joseph Lam, MD FRCPC, Department of Pediatrics, Department of Dermatology and Skin Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Abstract
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common, benign skin condition that primarily affects children and adolescents. It is characterized by small follicular papules resembling “chicken skin” or goosebumps, most often on extensor surfaces of the proximal upper and lower extremities. The exact cause of KP is unclear, however it is believed to follow an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern and may be associated with a mutation in filaggrin, a protein involved in maintaining the skin barrier. This ultimately results in excessive keratin production and deposition surrounding hair follicles. Diagnosis is typically based on the patient’s history and clinical presentation. KP is most often asymptomatic and tends to improve with age. However, treatment is aimed at enhancing cosmetic appearance or relieving mild pruritus. Management includes optimizing skin moisturization and using topical keratolytic agents, though other options such as topical retinoids and laser therapy may also be effective.
Key Words: Keratosis pilaris, keratolytic agents, asymptomatic, benign.

Introduction
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common and benign dermatological condition considered a normal variant of skin. It typically presents as numerous small papules resembling “chicken skin” or goosebumps, primarily on the extensor surfaces of the proximal extremities. There are several variants of KP, including keratosis pilaris rubra, characterized by marked erythema surrounding hair follicles, keratosis pilaris alba, featuring grayish-white lesions without erythema, and keratosis pilaris atrophicans faciei (also known as ulerythema ophryogenes), which primarily affects the lateral eyebrows and cheeks and is often associated with scarring or alopecia.^1,2 While there is no definitive cure or means for prevention, KP typically improves spontaneously with age and may become less noticeable with moisturization.^3,4 It typically presents in children and adolescents, with most patients seeking treatment for cosmetic concerns.⁴ It is most often asymptomatic, however some patients report having mild pruritus. Management aims to relieve symptoms and improve the appearance of lesions.