Keratosis Pilaris is a medically harmless skin condition, but can create some embarrassment because of the redness and irritation it causes (bumps on skin).
Signs and Symptoms
This condition starts when a buildup of keratin becomes trapped in the hair follicles. This leads to swelling and sometimes itchy red skin, which looks like a skin rash. Our first inclination when we have an eruption is to scratch or squeeze the blemish which then makes it look and feel worse.
So what do you do if you suffer this condition? Most people will outgrow this by their 30’s, but some of us will deal with the problem for life. I myself have battled keratosis pilaris since my teenage years and have finally found the solution that works best for me:
Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis Pilaris is treated in the same manner as mild acne conditions. First I start with a light exfoliation to remove dead skin cells. This can be either a scrub or body wash with glycolic or salicylic acids. I do want to stress that daily exfoliation is probably too much, so keep it to 3 times per week. If you decide to use a scrub, please treat your skin gently! There is no reason to scrub your skin raw.
After your shower, and while still damp, apply moisturizer that contains lactic acid (www.amlactin.com), urea, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. These ingredients will increase the moisture levels in the skin without clogging the pores. Please be cautious of occlusive ingredients such a petroleum and avocado seed oil.
At night you can use a retinoid such as adapalene, tretinoin, retinol, or tazarotene. A small amount goes a long way, so don’t overuse it. 3 times per week should be sufficient to quell the problem without over drying the skin. Remember to wash any retinol products off the next morning as it will cause sun sensitivity.
Most people find that dry weather causes keratosis pilaris to exacerbate, so a humidifier in your home will also help the condition.
Beauty Made Simply offers a body treatment that does help with keratosis pilaris. From the main page choose “Book an appointment” and find “Nice Buns Hun”. This treatment consists of a gentle body scrub, mask and light moisturizer to get you glowing.
Call us at 602-737-1339 for more information about treating Keratosis Pilaris and other skin conditions.
