Keratosis Pilaris Types

Otherwise known as "chicken skin," keratosis pilaris is not a serious health condition, but one that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Keratosis pilaris affects approximately 40 percent of adults and 50 to 80 percent of adolescents, according to Dr. Nili N. Alai of MedicineNet. Although the types of keratosis pilaris vary, the skin problem is generally recognizable by bumps on the skin or dry, rough patches. Keratosis pilaris can manifest on the face, arms, thighs and buttocks.

Keratosis Pilaris Alba

• Keratosis pilaris alba is characterized by dry, rough skin and gray or white bumps. This type of keratosis pilaris means the skin is inflamed. Although it may sound painful, this condition does not typically cause irritation. It can become worse during the dry winter months and generally appears on the arms, legs and buttocks.

Keratosis Pilaris Rubra

• Red lesions or red inflamed bumps are associated with keratosis pilaris rubra. This type of keratosis pilaris often shows up on larger patches of skin and is more common during winter months when skin is typically drier. Keratosis pilaris rubra generally appears on the legs, arms and buttocks.

Keratosis Pilaris Rubra Faceii and Atrophicans Faciei

• Two types of keratosis pilaris affect the face -- rubra faceii and atrophicans faciei. Rubra faceii leads to a reddish rash on the cheeks and can be mistaken for rosacea. It is more commonly seen with babies, but can also occur during childhood and adolescence. This type of keratosis pilaris also leaves skin feeling rough. Atrophicans faciei leaves tiny indentations on the face that resemble scarring.