Keratosis Pilaris – Those annoying bumps on your upper arms and legs
This morning I received an email from Nicole asking for advice on a condition that affects up to 50% of the adult population (and up to 80% of adolescents).
Keratosis pilaris (KP) affects up to 80% of all adolescents and 505 of the general population population
I was wondering if u have anything to help keratosis pilaris on the body?
I’ve had it since birth and have noticed my nearly-3 year old daughter has it too. All advice says no treatment available other than exfoliate and moisturise.
Thanks!, NicoleAnd here is what I emailed back:
Hi Nicole,
Thank you for asking the question… and we appreciate your wonderful feedback.I too have suffered from keratosis pilaris so know a little of what you are experiencing.
Your research is quite correct. Moisturisation and exfoliation are the best ways to treat the issue.
What is Keratosis pilaris (KP)?
You see, excess keratin is produced by the body and plugs the pores of the hair follicles which allows the keratin to build up and cause the bumps to form. Keratosis pilaris is usually found on the upper arms and thighs. Other areas it can affect are the face, chest, buttocks and forearms. It is commonly confused with acne and will only get worse if treated as such.
Being a genetic condition – about 50 to 80% of the population has KP as it is often referred to… so you and your daughter a far from alone.
What can you do to treat it?
The best way I have found to help ease the situation (it is not a ‘curable’ thing as is part of the body makeup) is to GENTLY exfoliate each night.
I usually use a washcloth and rub over the area with a light circular motion. This helps to remove the old flaking skin, allow the hair follicles to remain clear and the hairs to remain free and not become trapped in the hair follicle. Don’t use soap or any cleanser in the area as this will dry the skin out which will make the condition worse.
After my shower I use one of our light body lotions to moisturise the area. ( Look at our Bergamot or Rose Geranium Hand and Body Lotions- these are perfect and won’t block pores). Heavy duty body butters and oils are prone to block KP pores and can make the condition worse. Here is the link to the lotions if you are interested https://moonhaven.com.au/shop/hand-body-lotion-with-rose-geranium-3
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
Other than that I make sure that I include a zinc supplement in my daily vitamin intake (Australia’s soils don’t contain much zinc) as well as my usual dose of vitamin C. There is also some evidence that Vitamin D3 can be of some use as well.
I hope this information is helpful.
Leonie
