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Keratosis Palmaris is a group of skin disorders that are hereditary, also known as palmoplantar keratoderma. These diseases cause a thickening of the skin on the palms and soles of your feet. This thickening is because of an overproduction of keratin protein that leads to the extreme growth of the stratum corneum (hyperkeratosis).

Types of Palmoplantar Keratoderma

This group of skin disorders is subdivided into types. Focusing on the inherited types, there are three distinct types of palmoplantar keratoderma that are distinguishable by the pattern of epidermal development. These types are diffuse PPK, focal PPK, and punctate keratoderma.

Diffuse Palmoplantar Keratoderma

This type causes the skin to turn yellow and thicken consistently across the entire surface of the skin on palms and soles. The development usually starts in the first few months of life.

Focal Palmoplantar Keratoderma

This type of PPK creates localized areas of thickened skin. Onset occurs within the first 2 years of life. The areas that suffer this thickening are those that experience the most pressure and friction.

Punctate Keratoderma

This type creates small bumps due to concentrated hyperkeratosis. These tiny papules may cover the entire skin surface of the palms or soles, or may be apparent in only certain areas. This disorder can onset anywhere between 10 and 70 years of age.

How do you Treat Keratosis Palmaris?

How are keratosis palmaris diseases treated? Treatments are few, but usually involve a regular routine of lubrication of the affected area. Also, to avoid dry skin it is important to use mild soaps and cleansers. Most people find that the best keratosis palmaris treatment is a combination of a few. For example a combination therapy using topical products as well as therapies of strong exfoliation and lubrication has been known to be efficient treatments.

It is important to remember that is with any condition, no treatment is always effective for everybody. Completely clearing the disease may not be possible. However, in some cases the disease by improve or clear on its own. Without a known cure or prevention method, it is important find a keratosis palmaris and a keratosis pilaris treatment that works for you.