Keratosis Pilaris Treatment

Keratosis Pilaris, also called Chicken Skin,(KP) is a skin condition that millions of people have, but are unaware of. The people that are unaware of this problem blame the bumpy skin and red dots to zits and pimples. However, Keratosis Pilaris treatment techniques are different than treating acne and other skin blemishes. KP is a hereditary skin condition that causes people to have ugly, bumpy, and blemished skin. The areas of the body that are most affected are the arms and legs. However, the back, chest, buttocks, and sometimes the face are affected. This can cause stress for many people as severe cases of this condition are very noticeable. Many people that have keratosis pilaris become self conscious about their skin and tend to cover but their legs and arms in public.

The reason why people with this condition have red and bumpy skin is due to the keratin build up in the hair follicles. Since there is extra keratin production in the skin, the hair follicles become clogged and excess keratin covers the follicle. The extra keratin that covers the follicle is what makes people with this condition have scratchy, rough, skin. People that do not have this condition have skin that does not produce extra keratin, hence, smoother skin.

What types of treatments are available for keratosis pilaris? Unfortunately, there are no over the counter pills or cures for this condition. However, with some work, you can greatly reduce the red dots on your skin and create smooth, touchable skin. The best treatment for keratosis pilaris is to start taking care of your skin. Your first task is to reduce the scratchiness of your skin. To do this, you will have exfoliate your skin to break up the keratin in the hair follicles. There are a few options to exfoliate your skin; you can either use a body scrub or use regular non-scented soap and a body scrub sponge. Both ways work well, and I’ve had success with both treatments. Exfoliating does two things; it creates smoother skin and breaks up the keratin in the skin. Do not pick at your skin as this will create scars. Exfoliating at least twice a week will greatly improve the roughness of your skin. Many people with keratosis pilaris state that they exfoliate every day. I personally think that this is overkill as your skin will become irritated by the constant rubbing of the skin and might increase the keratin buildup. However, everybody’s skin is different and what works for one person, might not work for another. The next step is to apply a topical lotion to keep your skin moisturized. Another reason why keratosis pilaris becomes worse is due to dry skin and dry climate. I’ve noticed that my skin clears up during the summer months when there is more heat and humidity in the air. When winter comes along, is when my skin really breaks out and I have very large, very ugly red bumps all over the backs of my arms. Apply lotion in the morning and at night before going to sleep. The best type of lotion for keratosis pilaris treatments are ones that contain urea, alpha hyrdoxy, or lactic acid. A dermatologist would recommend that you use AmLactin, Cortol-20, or Eurcerin Intensive Repair lotion. If you perform these tasks religiously for a couple of months, you will definitely see results.

Other tips for keratosis pilaris treatmentare making sure you drink enough water, get some sun, and if all else fails, you can try a doctor prescribed Retin-A. However, Retin-A treatments become very expensive and can cost you hundreds of dollars to treat just your arms and legs. Keratosis Pilaris treatment remedies are not necessarily a cure, but with diligence and love for your skin, you will be able to walk outside with shorts and tank tops without any shame.