Keratosis pilaris: Causes, Treatments and Symptoms
Most of us, at one time or another, have had a skin problem. There are many other skin conditions than the ones you know.
Keratosis Pilaris is a good example. Many doctors consider it a type of skin rather than a disease. It’s not harmful, but many teens and adults with small bumps on their faces are willing to use any method to eliminate them.
There is hope for those who suffer from keratosis. There are several treatments for keratosis. You can use products at home or visit a Skin Care Clinic. This guide will cover the symptoms of keratosis, what it could be caused by, and some treatment options to help ease them.
What causes Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis Pilaris is not just rough skin. The buildup of Keratin (the protein responsible for hair, nails, and skin) causes this common skin condition. This condition can be exacerbated by dry skin.
A bump appears when too much Keratin is deposited on the top of the hair follicle. Keratosis Pilaris is caused when Keratin blocks hundreds of hair follicles. It’s also similar to data-link-type=”page” href=”https://www.katesomerville.com/us/en/blog/what-is-strawberry-skin.html”>strawberry skin, but keratosis pilaris is caused by genetics.
What Are the Symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris
It is essential to determine if you have this condition before treating it. Small, raised, discolored bumps (not to confuse with strawberry skin, which is often darker in color) are the most obvious signs. They are usually found on the upper arms, legs, or (ahem) your derriere.
If you answered yes to the indicator above, then there are also a few other symptoms that may be present.
Itchy skin
Dry skin
Skin roughness where bumpy patches persist
Bumps are more noticeable in colder or dryer weather
You may have used our checklist to self-diagnose, but the best way is to see a dermatologist. Other conditions can have similar symptoms. A dermatologist can quickly diagnose keratosis pilaris by looking at the bumps.
Keratosis Pilaris Treatments at Home
While at-home remedies won’t eliminate bumps, they will treat their symptoms and may even reduce their appearance. Here are some easy but effective treatments we have whipped up for you:
Moisturizers
Dermatologists agree that dry skin can worsen the symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris. Find a moisturizer that will keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. Consider these moisturizing suggestions:
Use lotion on your bumpy skin multiple times a day.
Apply it immediately after showering while the skin is still moist. It’s more likely that you will retain moisture.
Skin Creams
You can narrow your search for skin care products by searching for creams rich in Vitamin A. Vitamin A boosts cell turnover, preventing hair follicles from becoming clogged. Some vitamin A products include topical retinoids. Note: Test a small amount of topical retinoid on your skin before using it. You can also find skincare products that contain lactic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid.
Exfoliators
Exfoliation is a process that removes dead skin from your body. Exfoliation is essential because an accumulation of Keratin can cause keratosis Polaris. Exfoliating your skin will not only feel great (hello, super-soft skin), but it may also help to remove excess Keratin.
Here are some different ways to exfoliate your body:
Dry brush
Body scrub exfoliator
Chemical exfoliator
Our Resurfacing Body Scrub contains a mixture of pumice, lactic acid, and salicylic acids to remove the rough outer layer of skin. This allows for the appearance of new, healthy cells. After a week, 97% said that it improved the rough patches on their face.
Even though you’ll only use it three times per week, this will quickly become your favorite part of the shower. Take a stand.
Gentle Skincare
Many people who have keratosis pelaris find that their skin is susceptible. Here are some general tips that can help you prevent irritation if you find out that you have sensitive or irritable skin.
Avoid water that’s too hot.
Use a humidifier to moisturize your air (and skin).
Showers should be shorter – 15 minutes at most – as they can cause your skin to dry.