From the FDA Drug Label
Indications and Usage For debridement and promotion of normal healing of hyperkeratotic surface lesions, particularly where healing is retarded by local infection, necrotic tissue, fibrinous or purulent debris or eschar. Urea is useful for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions such as dry, rough skin, dermatitis, psoriasis, xerosis, ichthyosis, eczema, keratosis pilaris, keratosis palmaris, keratoderma, corns and calluses, as well as damaged, ingrown and devitalized nails.
Treatment options for Keratosis Pilaris include:
- Urea (TOP) for the treatment of hyperkeratotic conditions, specifically keratosis pilaris 1 Key points:
- Urea is useful for treating dry, rough skin and other hyperkeratotic conditions.
From the Research
Keratosis pilaris can be effectively treated with a combination of moisturizers, exfoliants, and topical medications, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting laser therapy as a highly effective option. The treatment of keratosis pilaris (KP) involves addressing the underlying causes of the condition, including excess keratin buildup, follicular plugging, and skin dryness.
Treatment Options
- Gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers containing urea, lactic acid, or ammonium lactate (like AmLactin or CeraVe SA) applied to affected areas after showering while skin is still damp
- Chemical exfoliants with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to help remove dead skin cells; products with 2% salicylic acid or glycolic acid are effective options
- Prescription retinoids such as tretinoin 0.025-0.05% cream or adapalene 0.1% gel applied nightly to help normalize skin cell turnover
- Laser therapy, particularly the QS:Nd YAG laser, has been shown to be a highly effective treatment option for KP, as demonstrated in a systematic review 2
Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoid hot showers, harsh soaps, and excessive scrubbing as these can worsen dryness and irritation
- Use a humidifier in dry environments and wear loose, non-irritating clothing
- Topical treatments, including Mineral Oil-Hydrophil Petrolat, tacrolimus, azelaic acid, and salicylic acid, can also be effective in improving the appearance of KP, as noted in a study published in The Journal of dermatological treatment 2
Recent Findings
A recent study published in the Italian journal of dermatology and venereology provides an updated review on the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management of KP, highlighting the importance of general cutaneous measures, such as hydrating skin and avoiding long baths or showers, in the treatment of the condition 3. Another study published in Pediatric dermatology reports the successful treatment of keratosis pilaris rubra with topical sirolimus 1% cream, demonstrating the potential of this treatment option for certain subtypes of KP 4.
Key Takeaways
- Consistent treatment typically improves appearance within 4-6 weeks, though ongoing maintenance is usually necessary to prevent recurrence
- The most recent and highest quality study suggests laser therapy as a highly effective treatment option for KP 2
- A combination of moisturizers, exfoliants, and topical medications can be effective in treating KP, and lifestyle modifications can help alleviate symptoms.