Keratins are a class of fibrous proteins, and the outermost layer of the skin is mainly composed of these proteins. Sometimes, the body's function of producing this protein is disrupted, and as a result, keratin builds up under the hair follicles near the outermost layer of the skin, causing blockages that protrude to the surface. This blockage will appear as a small, rough lump, often red or white in color. This condition is called keratosis piliaris. This condition is not medically dangerous. However, if you experience it, you may want to fade the look. While you can't reduce the production of keratin, you can reduce the appearance of keratosis piliaris by visiting your doctor and moisturizing your skin.
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Part 1 of 3: Visiting the Doctor
Step 1. Visit a doctor for a prescription
If keratosis piliaris bothers you, talk to your doctor about its treatment. You can consult a doctor to find out the right treatment options.
- Your doctor may prescribe an acid lotion, such as lactic acid lotion (such as AmLactin or Lac-Hydrin), salicylic acid lotion (such as Salex lotion), retinoic acid products (such as Retin-A or Differin), urea cream (such as Carmol 10, 20, or 40), or an alpha hydroxy acid lotion (such as Glytone). The acidic lotion can help dissolve the tough, scaly outer layer of skin and fade the appearance of keratosis pilaris.
- Your doctor may also prescribe a steroid cream (such as triamcinolone 0.1%) that can reduce redness of the skin.
Step 2. Switch to an emollient based steroid cream
If other treatments don't work, your doctor may try an emollient-based steroid cream. Some creams that fall into this category include Cloderm and Locoid Lipocream. You should only use this cream for about a week.
Step 3. Ask about photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Basically, this treatment utilizes light and a photosensitizer that is applied to the surface of the skin to treat the problem. However, the use of PDT for keratosis piliaris is not officially listed. So, it may not be covered by your insurance.
Remember that this condition cannot be cured, and you can only alleviate it
Step 4. Talk about vitamin A supplements
Although not directly causing keratosis piliaris, vitamin A deficiency can cause the same symptoms on the skin. Have your doctor test your blood sample and ask if a vitamin A supplement would be helpful.
Part 2 of 3: Relieves Dry Skin
Step 1. Take a bath and soak with lukewarm water
Don't use hot water for showers and baths as this can dry out your skin and make some of the problems worse. In addition, also limit the time you shower because bathing can remove the skin's natural oils.
Step 2. Choose the right bath soap
The best option is a mild body wash that contains added oils. Look for "moisturizing" or "extra moisturizing" labels on soap packages. Avoid antibacterial soaps or soaps with added fragrances or alcohol.
In fact, avoiding soap altogether and switching to a cleanser may be a better option
Step 3. Gently exfoliate the skin
Do not use harsh scrubs. Using gentle exfoliants may be beneficial. Exfoliating ingredients can exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, which is made up of dead skin cells. You can try using a loofah or washcloth with soap. Use a pumice stone only for very rough skin layers, such as the soles of your feet.
Step 4. Use a moisturizer after showering
After every shower, make sure to always use a moisturizer. The same is true after washing your hands. When the body is wet, you need to apply moisturizer. Bathing can remove the skin's natural oils, and applying a moisturizer afterward can help lock the water in the skin and moisturize it.
- Apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp, right after showering.
- If you have dry skin, choose a moisturizer that contains oils or fats to help moisturize the skin.
Step 5. Use moisturizer at least 3 times a day
In addition to using it after bathing, you should also apply moisturizer throughout the day. Try to apply moisturizer when you wake up and before going to bed.
Step 6. Choose natural fabrics
Natural fabrics are better for the skin because they allow air to flow. The exception is wool fabrics, which can cause itching. Choose cotton or silk only.
Step 7. Try using a natural detergent
When choosing a detergent, look for products that are dye-free. Colorants can irritate the skin. For the same reason, choose a fragrance-free detergent.
Part 3 of 3: Using a Humidifier to Moisturize Skin
Step 1. Try using a humidifier
A humidifier can help moisturize your skin, especially if you live in a dry climate. The ideal humidity for the house is between 30-50 percent. If your home's humidity is lower than this range, using a humidifier will benefit your dry skin.
If you need to test for humidity, purchase a hygrometer at your local hardware store. The appearance and workings of this tool is similar to that of a thermometer. Some humidifiers are also equipped with a hygrometer
Step 2. Keep your humidifier clean
Keeping the humidifier clean is important because disease-causing bacteria and fungi can grow in it. One way you can keep your humidifier clean is to use distilled water that doesn't contain minerals that support bacterial growth.
- Change the water in the humidifier every day if possible. To change the water, disconnect the appliance from the power line. Get the water out of it. Drain, and then refill with clean water.
- Clean the humidifier thoroughly every 3 days. Disconnect the appliance from the power line. Make sure there are no mineral deposits in it by pouring in a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Rinse afterwards.
Step 3. Don't use the humidifier forever
This tool over time can be overgrown with bacteria. If you have an old humidifier in your home, consider replacing it.
Step 4. Turn on the humidifier in a room that you use frequently
The purpose of using this tool is to help relieve skin problems, and this cannot be done if the humidifier is placed in a room that you rarely use. The best location for placing tools is in the bedroom or family room. If you can, consider putting one humidifier in each room.
