I wanted to share my helpful tips for dealing with Keratosis Pilaris because it is a condition that really affects a lot of people. It is a skin condition that is a result of a genetic disorder of the keratinization of hair follicles in the skin, causing little tiny bumps on your skin's surface - almost like permanent goose-bumps. I have had it for as long as I could remember, and even though it is not as severe as most cases, it was always something that I was really self-conscious about. So here are my 7 tips for dealing with Keratosis Pilaris, and I hope they help someone out there.
I made this the first of my tips for dealing with Keratosis Pilaris for a reason. Picking at your skin causes some serious damage and scaring. It will also transfer bacteria and germs that will clog your skin’s pores and cause even more irritation - nooooo!
Take a warm bath or shower. Avoid using really hot water because it will rip your skin of its natural oils. You want it warm enough so that your pores open up and your skin can be prepared for cleaning. Stand in the steam for a couple minutes, then begin.
Wash with a good soap that is free of any harsh chemicals. I recommend Dove’s Sensitive Skin Unscented Beauty Bar or their Sensitive Skin Body Wash. Both are gentile and won’t irritate your skin more than it already is. Use a loofah and apply in circular motions using a little pressure. Oh, and be sure to steer clear of fragranced and scented washes.
This is the next step that is an absolute must. After cleaning the surface of your skin, it’s time to exfoliate. I recommend Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action Face Wash. Yes, I know it’s a face wash, but you can also use it wherever you have KP. The small beads gently exfoliate your skin and rid it of dirt and debris that might be lurking. You can also try other scrubs that list salicylic acid as an ingredient.
After you have finished the two previous steps, rise your skin gently. I know it is tempting to want to just scratch all the little bumps off, but resist the urge! Run it under the lukewarm water until all the soap and wash is gone.
This goes back to the scrubbing issue. Don’t rub your skin dry, PAT it dry. The goal is to minimize irritation, not make it worse. Make sure your towel is clean - or better yet, have separate towels for your hair and body. Let you skin rest for a couple minutes, then move on to the next and final step.
This is crucial, because your skin needs to get back the moisture it lost. I recommend Nivea’s Extended Moisture Daily Lotion. If you can find one with Vitamin E, lactic acid, or other vitamins that help take care of skin, then even better! A semi-thick moisturizing lotion will help replenish your skin and smooth out some of the bumps.
The most important thing is to be patient. KP will not disappear overnight, but these tips should help minimize it. I am not a dermatologist or professional, but I have found these products and methods to work the best. All of these products can be found at your local drug store for reasonable prices. If you struggle with this condition, are there any other products that you recommend? Any other tips you can provide, or ways you deal with it? KP affects about 50% of the population, myself included... so remember, ladies: You are NOT alone.