Keratosis is one of the many skin conditions that have disturbed many people. This skin condition leaves a lot of questions in the minds of everyone and leaves then asking themselves the question, what is keratosis?
Well, keratosis is a skin condition that is characterized by the growth of keratin on the skin. Keratin is a component in hooves, nails and hair. It is a protein. When people look for information to find out about the condition, they find out that there are several types of of the condition.
Keratosis can be broken down into different types. There is actinic keratosis, seborrheic keratosis, hydrocarbon keratosis and keratosis pilaris..
Since the word keratosis is too general, it is always very hard when you try to find an answer to the question, what is keratosis? And therefore, it is better to know the specific types of the problem. Keratosis pilaris is a type whereby there are rough bumps that appear on the skin. This condition can be mild or even severe and usually appears on the upper arms. They mostly affect the outer sides and the back. This skin condition can also affect the chest, buttocks, thighs and hands. Keratosis pilaris does not affect parts of the body with glabrous skin like the soles of your feet. When this type of keratosis appears on the face, most people confuse it with acne.
Seborrheic Keratosis is a type of keratosis whereby the lesions that appear on the skin range from black o light tan. These can either be flat or raised and also round or oval. Seborrheic keratosis appears when someone is in his or her forties. The growths are usually benign and come from keratinocytes which are the cells which manufacture keratin in the body.
There are more types of keratosis that you will come across when searching for more information. The best thing to do when you are not sure about any skin condition that you have is to ask your dermatologist about the condition.