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Keratosis Pilaris Treatment
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is generally symptom-free and often improves over time without treatment. Basic skin care, like using hypoallergenic soaps and avoiding picking at the bumps, can be helpful. For those who want to improve the skin’s appearance, topical treatments such as moisturizers, exfoliating acids (BHA & AHA), and urea creams may help by smoothing the skin’s texture.
Here are our nine recommendations for treating keratosis pilaris.
1. Gentle Exfoliation
- Physical exfoliation: Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a soft washcloth to help remove dead skin. Avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate sensitive skin and make keratosis pilaris worse.
- Chemical exfoliation: Look for products with AHAs (like lactic acid or glycolic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) that help dissolve dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.
2. Moisturize Regularly
- Use a rich moisturizer with ingredients like urea, lactic acid, or glycerin immediately after showering to help lock in moisture. Urea is particularly effective for softening and smoothing rough patches.
- Avoid heavy oils that may clog pores; instead, opt for non-comedogenic lotions.
3. Warm, Not Hot Showers
- Hot water can strip the skin of natural oils, increasing dryness. Opt for warm, shorter showers to avoid exacerbating the condition.
- Pat your skin dry after bathing, rather than rubbing, to minimize irritation.
4. Use Mild, Fragrance-Free Soaps
- Harsh soaps or heavily fragranced products can dry out the skin and worsen keratosis pilaris. Choose gentle, pH-balanced, fragrance-free cleansers.
5. Avoid Tight Clothing
- Tight clothes can cause friction, which may irritate keratosis pilaris. Opt for looser, breathable fabrics, especially on areas prone to bumps.
6. Humidify Your Space
- Dry air can make keratosis pilaris more noticeable. Using a humidifier can help keep your skin hydrated, especially during winter months.
7. Avoid Picking or Scratching
- Although tempting, scratching or picking can lead to scarring or further irritation. Stick to regular care routines instead.
8. Consider Topical Retinoids (If Recommended)
- If over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective, consult a dermatologist about prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene. These can help promote cell turnover and reduce bumpiness.
9. Be Consistent and Patient
- Keratosis pilaris doesn’t improve overnight, but with consistent care, the skin’s texture often becomes noticeably smoother over time.
Sticking to these practices can help manage keratosis pilaris and improve skin texture over time.
What Products Are Recommended For Keratosis Pilaris?
To effectively treat keratosis, a regular regimen of body lotion with exfoliating acids can help dissolve dead skin cells and encourage natural exfoliation. Using an exfoliating body cream along with gentle exfoliation (preferably with both small granules and acid) a couple of times a week provides better results than using a standard moisturizer. Avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent irritation. Consistent treatment is key, as stopping can lead to a recurrence, and it may take time to see results.
More about keratosis pilaris treatment in our recent post.
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