Will Keratosis Pilaris go away? The causes and treatments for Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis Pilaris (KP) Treatments, West Malling, Kent
If you have noticed the appearance of small, rough bumps on your skin that look like chicken skin, you’re not alone. This common skin condition is called keratosis pilaris, and while it is harmless, it can be frustrating to deal with. The good news is, there are treatments available that can help reduce the appearance of these bumps and improve the texture of your skin. In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about keratosis pilaris, including its causes, and the best treatments to get rid of those pesky bumps once and for all. So, if you’re tired of feeling self-conscious about your skin, keep reading to discover the best ways to smooth things over.
What is Keratosis Pilaris and why do I have it?
Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common disorder of the skin affecting around 1 in 20 of us. It occurs due to an accumulation of keratin at the opening of the hair follicle, leading to stubborn, horny plugs on the skin’s surface. These are often surrounded by a rim of redness giving a stippled or speckled appearance and may resemble goose bumps or “chicken skin.
The exact cause of KP is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be caused by the build-up of keratin, a protein that protects the skin from infections and other harmful substances. In people with KP, the build-up of keratin forms a plug that blocks the hair follicles. This leads to the formation of small, rough bumps on the skin. KP is also believed to be related to genetics. It is often seen in families and is more common in people with dry skin or eczema.
How to minimise the appearance of Keratosis Pilaris
While there is no miracle remedy to clear it up entirely, there are a number of different things sufferers can do to improve how Keratosis Pilaris looks and feels.
Use fragrance-free products
By using unscented and mild moisturisers or emollient cleansers, dryness can be minimised, and the roughness associated with Keratosis Pilaris can be eased to some extent. Make sure your body-care regimen is fragrance-free, and try to use the most lukewarm water possible for showers and baths.
Exfoliate
Body washes containing glycolic or salicylic acid should also help make your skin feel smoother and look more refined. AHA glycolic acid turfs away dead skin on the surface, while salicylic acid makes its way to the deeper levels of the skin to target the keratin responsible for Keratosis Pilaris.
The Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion is a lactic acid-laced body moisturiser was specifically created with keratosis pilaris in mind, and when tested in a clinical trial, 80% of participants responded that it helped improve their skin texture in four weeks.
Use a topical retinoid
Retinol is a popular (and highly effective) anti-ageing ingredient, but it also serves as an effective treatment for Keratosis Pilaris. Retinol’s exfoliating properties facilitate the quicker emergence of fresh skin cells, ultimately resulting in the flattening of chicken skin bumps. However, it’s essential to remember that visible results may take some time, and consistent use of retinoids for several weeks is necessary to see significant improvement. But once you’ve passed this stage, you’ll be on your way to smoother skin.
Eat plenty of Omega-3’s
Incorporating omega-3 rich foods into your diet can help maintain healthy and moisturised skin. These foods include walnuts, flaxseeds, salmon, tuna, sardines, and soybeans. Additionally, leafy greens are an excellent source of nutrients that contribute to overall skin health and functionality.
Consider Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a high-strength exfoliating treatment for Keratosis Pilaris that usually contain safe alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids. These peels are available in varying acid strengths of 20% to 50%, with higher strengths penetrating deeper into the skin. As Keratosis Pilaris is caused by the build-up of keratin in the skin’s pores, chemical peels effectively exfoliate this clogged top layer, leading to a smoother skin texture. By dislodging dry and thickened skin, chemical peels help to soften the skin and alleviate Keratosis Pilaris symptoms.
If you’d like to learn more about Keratosis Pilaris and the right treatments for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.
