Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a genetic skin disease that affects 40% of the world's population. The symptoms of KP produce a cluster of small red bumps that are most commonly found on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks and less frequently on the face that may at first be mistaken for acne. Although KP can't be cured yet, there are ways to treat it. We will show you some steps to solve it.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Directly Treating Sore Skin
Step 1. Use a moisturizer
The goal to be achieved when treating keratosis pilaris is to overcome the lumps. One of the best ways to do this is to regularly apply lotion or cream 1-2 times a day.
Step 2. Use a special soap such as goat's milk or whole grain soap
Whole grains are exfoliants that work to remove dead skin and smooth it so that when used as a soap it can soften the skin. The fat and lactic acid in goat's milk work to relieve those itchy and annoying bumps.
Step 3. Use a moisturizer that contains lactic acid
Lactic acid has been shown to be beneficial for breaking down keratin that clogs hair follicles, removing lumps. AmLactin and Lac-Hydrin are two brands that can be purchased without a prescription
- Use a topical retinoid. This is a lotion that uses a vitamin A-derived substance that works to treat dry skin. You can buy Retin-A, Isotrex, or Differin at your local pharmacy.
- Use a urea cream that works to break down dead skin and keratin. Be careful when using this cream because it can damage healthy skin if used in excess. Wash your hands after use and apply according to written directions.
- Use a moisturizer that contains glycolic acid. It works to remove dead skin and blockages in the hair follicles.
- If you can't buy a certain brand of moisturizer to treat bumps, you can buy a lotion specifically for sensitive skin. Some of the ingredients in regular lotions can make your illness worse.
Step 4. Use the oil to treat your skin
As with moisturizers and creams, oils also work to soften the skin and the keratin in it. Rub a small amount of oil once or twice a day on the affected skin area.
- Use coconut oil. Although this oil is commonly found in the kitchen, it has also been shown to be beneficial for softening the skin. Use in the shower for a few minutes, or apply on dry skin before going to bed at night.
- Rubbing pure vitamin E oil on dry skin can soften the skin while adding nourishment to the skin. Vitamin E has been proven to make skin healthy and gives promising results to treat cases of keratosis pilaris.
- Sea buckthorn is a type of plant that produces oil to treat skin diseases. You can find it at your local pharmacy or drugstore, and apply it on your skin 1-2 times a day.
Step 5. Use an exfoliant
While softening the skin is the best way to reduce keratosis pilaris, removing dead skin and blockages can also improve the condition. However, you need to avoid using anything too abrasive as it can damage your skin in the long run.
- Use a rough sponge in the shower to exfoliate dead skin. But don't use a loofah because it's too hard.
- Shower with exfoliating soap. Many soaps like this are sold freely. It contains tiny particles that work to exfoliate dead skin.
- Use a sugar scrub. You can buy it at most drug and beauty supply stores, or you can make your own at home. Mix sugar and honey to make a paste, apply it on the skin and then rub in a circular motion. Rinse with warm water afterwards.
Method 2 of 2: Treating Skin Indirect
Step 1. Take a bath with oatmeal
Oatmeal will smooth and moisturize itchy skin. Do this at least once a week for maximum benefit.
- Take 1/3 cup of oatmeal and grind it in a blender until it becomes a fine powder.
- Pour it into the tub while you turn on the water to completely dissolve it.
- After a shower, the powdered oatmeal may still partially adhere to the tub, especially if it doesn't dissolve completely. Don't worry because the remaining dirt is not difficult to clean (unless you leave it for days).
- Oatmeal baths are also available in stores if you don't want to make your own powder.
Step 2. Use a humidifier
If you live in a dry area, your skin will be extra sensitive, and a moisturizer can solve this problem. By increasing the humidity of the air, it can soften your skin.
- Use of distilled water (pure water, no minerals or contaminants) is highly recommended. Tap water contains lead, chlorine and nitrates which are best avoided if you can.
- If you don't have your own humidifier, you might consider making your own using an old T-shirt and fan.
Step 3. Avoid cold and dry air
Low temperatures and humidity make the skin dry so it becomes rough. For someone who suffers from keratosis pilaris, this situation is not good for your condition and will make it worse. If you live in a cool, dry place, be sure to moisturize your skin every day.
Step 4. Bask in the sun
Keratosis pilaris is generally not very visible in summer, maybe this condition has something to do with the amount of sunlight. Spend a little time outdoors to increase the production of sun-triggered hormones while removing dead skin cells.
- Always use sunscreen when spending time in the sun to avoid skin damage.
- There are no studies that prove sunlight increases keratosis pilaris, but there seems to be a correlation between the two. However, spending time in the sun has a direct link to a reduction in depression and anxiety, which is great for everyone.
Step 5. Avoid using water that is too hot
Soaking or using a very hot shower can scald the skin and dry it out. It's best to take a warm or cold shower and use a shower to reduce the effects of heat on the skin.
Step 6. Ask for a prescription
Visit a dermatologist to get a prescription for medicine that can treat your disease. Your doctor may prescribe medication in the form of pills, oils, or creams, but each will be useful for improving the condition of your skin.
Step 7. Use laser treatment
Although it is expensive and not beneficial in 100% of cases, using laser treatment will relieve very severe cases of keratosis pilaris. If you have been struggling for years with your skin condition, this could be the right choice for you.
Tips
- Moisturize the skin regularly.
- Keratosis pilaris often diminishes with age, so it affects children and adolescents more often than adults.
Warning
- Do not scrape, scratch or rub dry skin. This will result in scarring, itching, possible infection or increased redness of the skin. Rub with the recommended remedy or simply use a moisturizing lotion.
- Drying the skin in the sun must be done carefully to minimize skin damage and worsen the condition of keratosis pilaris.
