Recent Articles of Interest

Characterized by dry skin and papules, keratosis pilaris is a frequently occurring skin disorder. These skin papules lend the disease its nickname of 'goose bumps' and 'chicken skin.'

The manifestation of this skin ailment is linked to keratin buildup. Research is still being conducted to discover the root cause of the surplus keratin. Keratosis pilaris has a genetic component and dry skin might also contribute to its appearance.

Keratosis pilaris manifests itself in a number of varieties. Keratosis pilaris rubra refers to the instance when red, sometimes acne-like bumps appear. Dry skin with bumps that are not irritated or painful are categorized into keratosis pilaris alba. Warty or scaly papules are categorized as keratosis follicularis.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

Keratosis pilaris prescription treatments include topical corticosteroids, retinoids, urea and topical immunomodulators. If over the counter solutions are ineffective against skin inflammation, corticosteroids can be prescribed to treat inflammation. Apply a very thin layer two times daily, or as indicated by your doctor or dermatologist. Similar to over the counter hydrocortisone ointments, do not over apply to skin as this can cause weakening and slowed collagen production. Corticosteroids can cause lightening of the skin on your face. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying as this type of keratosis pilaris cream treatment can stain both skin and clothing.

Urea treatments might be prescribed to treat rough and dry skin. However, consider that urea is created to remove nitrogen waste from the body before pursuing this type of treatment.

Another treatment option is the use of topical retinoids. Topical retinoids speed up the rate at which follicular epithelial cells are replaced. Apply a thin layer to affected skin at bedtime. At one time, you should not apply to more than 20% of your skin as side effects are redness, extreme dryness, and/or peeling. You can find lower concentrations of topical retinoids or as an emollient cream to reduce the degree of these adverse effects. At the beginning you might be advised to apply every other day and slowly increase repetition as your skin becomes accustomed. Additional side effects include burning and pruritus, but these typically disappear within a few weeks. Women should take extra caution with this form of treatment if looking to become pregnant as retinoids are absorbed into the body. Also, avoid making contact with the eyes and mouth and stay out of the sun.

If none of the above treatments work for you, immunomodulators are often prescribed. Topical immunomodulators minimize inflammation by inhibiting T cells. Apply twice daily or as otherwise instructed to troubled areas. If your remedy consists of an immunomodulator and moisturizer, remember to apply the moisturizer afterwards. As with other keratosis pilaris treatments, take the necessary steps to protect yourself against exposure to sunlight and UV rays. Initial side effects include skin irritation due to a warming or burning sensation; these effects typically subside before the end of the first week of treatment.

Unlike other treatments, immunomodulators can be prescribed for young children. Collagen production is not inhibited by immunomodulator use and therefore does not thin the dermis. Although not fully research, until instructed safe, pregnant women and those with immune deficiencies should avoid this type of treatment.

Keratosis Pilaris Natural Treatment

Solve your keratosis skin problems without the chemicals in a prescription. Improve your skin by ridding and keeping your body free of toxins; try a cleansing or detox program followed by a change in diet. Make sure you are consuming enough essential fatty acids and vitamin E to ensure your body's ability to shed toxin-filled skin.

Furthermore, you can apply a biological keratosis pilaris lotion. If you are unsure what you should look for, read the ingredients and make sure extracts such as Salix Nigra and/or Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder are among its constitutents. These ingredients work to naturally dissolve keratin, thereby eliminating the hard keratin plugs that cause the formation of papules.

A plus for seeking out a natural remedy is that you can more safely treat keratosis pilaris in children.