From the Guidelines
Keratosis pilaris on the chest can be effectively managed with keratolytics, such as urea, alpha-hydroxyacids, or salicylic acid, which have been shown to remove scales and hyperkeratosis. The choice of keratolytic agent depends on individual patient needs and response to treatment, as there is no evidence to conclude which is the best agent or combination 1.
Treatment Options
- Urea is the most frequently used keratolytic agent, with concentrations ranging from 10% to 20%, and can be increased up to 40% in localized areas of thick scale or hyperkeratosis 1.
- Alpha-hydroxyacids, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, can be used in concentrations of 5-12% 1.
- Salicylic acid can be used in concentrations greater than 2% 1.
Application and Precautions
- Keratolytics are usually applied once or twice daily and can be tapered depending on the response 1.
- Side-effects of keratolytics include itching, burning sensation, and irritation, and application on the face, flexures, and areas of fissuring is not recommended due to the risk of irritation 1.
Additional Measures
- Gentle exfoliation and moisturizing can also help manage keratosis pilaris on the chest.
- Consistency with treatment for at least 4-6 weeks is necessary to see improvement, as keratosis pilaris requires ongoing management.
From the FDA Drug Label
For Dermatologic Use: Salicylic Acid 6% is a topical aid in the removal of excessive keratin in hyperkeratotic skin disorders including ... keratosis pilaris Indications and Usage For debridement and promotion of normal healing of hyperkeratotic surface lesions, ... Urea is useful for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions such as ... keratosis pilaris
Keratosis pilaris on the chest can be treated with salicylic acid (TOP) 2 or urea (TOP) 3, as both are indicated for the treatment of keratosis pilaris.
- Salicylic acid (TOP) is a topical aid in the removal of excessive keratin in hyperkeratotic skin disorders, including keratosis pilaris.
- Urea (TOP) is useful for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions, including keratosis pilaris.
From the Research
Keratosis Pilaris on the Chest
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common, benign skin condition characterized by small, folliculocentric papules with variable perifollicular erythema 4. While KP can occur on various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and buttocks, it can also appear on the chest.
Treatment Options
Several treatment options are available for KP, including:
- Laser therapy, particularly the QS:Nd YAG laser, which has been shown to be effective in improving the appearance of KP 5, 6
- Topical treatments, such as:
- Mineral Oil-Hydrophil Petrolat
- Tacrolimus
- Azelaic acid
- Salicylic acid
- Lactic acid, which is the most commonly used first-line therapy for KP 7
- General cutaneous measures, such as hydrating the skin, avoiding long baths or showers, and using mild soaps or cleansers 4
Effectiveness of Treatment Options
The effectiveness of these treatment options can vary, with some studies showing that laser therapy is the most effective form of treatment 5, 6. However, topical treatments can also be effective in improving the appearance of KP, especially when used in combination with other therapies 5, 7. It's worth noting that KP can be recalcitrant to treatment, and recurrence of lesions is common after stopping treatment 7.