Keratosis Pilaris - Best Treatments

Keratosis Pilaris most often appears on the upper arms and, sometimes, on the buttocks and thighs. In these areas, the skin cells flake off and form small bumps over the hair follicles. These bumps occur when the body produces too much Keratin. Keratin then collects these dead skin cells around the hair follicles, which forms little bumps.

These bumps resemble pimple-like plugs. Keratosis Pilaris is also known as "chicken skin," in fact, because of its rough, dry appearance.

Keratosis Pilaris can get worse in low humidity as well as during the colder months when skin gets dry.

It's usually easy to diagnose Keratosis Pilaris for yourself. Once you read the description and see photographs of someone who suffers with this condition, you'll generally know if this is what you have. You can also visit a doctor or dermatologist who will be able to diagnose with a simple visual exam.

At this time, there is no cure for Keratosis pilaris.And, for many people, this condition will always be present in some form or level of severity (thought it often decreases with age.) There are, however, many treatments - some more effective than others.

First, you can add exfoliation to your normal shower routine. Use a loofah or mild abrasive sponge to remove dead dry skin during your shower. You do need to be gently with scrubbing because if you irritate the skin, you can make the condition worse.

It will also help to keep your skin moist with a special lotion. Try an over the counter lotion first that is non-comedogenic. Look for moisturizers that contain lactic acid, urea or propylene glycol. Our recommendations are below.