What is the Difference Between Keratosis Pilaris and Folliculitis?

Keratosis pilaris and folliculitis are two common harmless skin conditions that may have similar symptoms, such as small red bumps on the skin. However, they have distinct differences:

Keratosis Pilaris:

• Caused by the buildup of keratin in the skin, leading to dry, rough patches and tiny bumps.
• Mainly affects young children, and is characterized by small, non-inflamed, red or skin-colored bumps that resemble acne, typically developing on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks.
• Often referred to as "chicken skin".
• Occurs when keratin plugs hair follicles.
• Individuals with a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, eczema, hay fever, and rhinitis have an increased chance of suffering from keratosis pilaris.

Folliculitis:

• Caused by inflamed hair follicles.
• Can affect men, women, children, or infants.
• Characterized by small, red bumps that may be itchy or painful.
• Can occur anywhere on the body where there are hair follicles, but is most commonly found on the scalp, forehead, jawline, neck, chest, and back.
• Can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections.

Both conditions can be diagnosed through physical examination and skin biopsy, and they are treated through topical creams and lifestyle and home remedies. Keratosis pilaris doesn't usually itch or hurt, while folliculitis is often characterized by red, itchy, painful bumps.

Comparative Table: Keratosis Pilaris vs Folliculitis

Here is a table comparing the differences between keratosis pilaris and folliculitis:

Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition caused by the build-up of keratin in the skin, resulting in dry, rough patches and tiny bumps. Folliculitis, on the other hand, is a skin condition that causes small red bumps due to inflamed hair follicles, usually resulting from bacterial or fungal infections. While both conditions can present as small bumps, keratosis pilaris is characterized by its dry, non-inflamed appearance, whereas folliculitis is typically itchy and painful.