What is Keratosis Pilaris? (Chicken Skin Bumps)

Keratosis Pilaris Doesn'T Have A Cure Right Now
Ever seen your skin showing some rough bumps or looking like a chicken skin? You may be suffering from a skin condition called keratosis pilaris, also called KP. People with keratosis pilaris usually have these chicken skin bumps along the arms and thighs. However, these small and rough bumps having grater-like texture can also affect the cheeks, back and buttocks.

Keratosis Pilaris is Harmless

This skin condition, medically is harmless however, aesthetically, it is not too pleasant too look at. Those rough skin bumps can also be quite annoying and because most of us love to wear a clear and smooth skin, people with keratosis pilaris are not too pleased with these unsightly bumps.

Who is Affected by Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is actually quite common. If you don’t have it, there is a great chance that you know someone who does. In fact about half of the whole world’s population has KP. This skin condition is more common in children and teens. Statistics say that around 50% to 80% of children are affected by it. KP is also not that rare in adults as it affects 4 out of every 10 adults however women are more prone to having KP. Not many people are aware of KP and even those who have this skin condition are mostly unaware of it and that there is treatment available. If you know someone with KP, you don’t have to worry about getting it from them since it is actually hereditary and not in any way contagious.

Treatment for Keratosis Pilaris

Although there is no cure for KP, there is however treatment that will help control it. When it comes to treating this skin condition, the focus is to smooth away those rough bumps. With continued treatment the bumps can go away and the skin’s overall appearance is improved.
  • Glycolic Acid Dermatologists recommend the use of AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids in treating KP. Both glycolic and lactic acids are exfoliating agents and skin doctors would usually recommend the use of either over-the-counter or prescription lactic acid products.
  • Urea Urea is an ingredient that many dermatologists trust in softening the roughest skin issues. It is no wonder that they usually would recommend products with Urea in treating this skin condition.
  • Vitamin A Treatments Dermatologists can also prescribe Vitamin A creams to patients suffering from keratosis pilaris made worse or complicated by acne. It is important that you follow the instructions of your dermatologist on the use of Vitamin A creams. There are also retinols that can be bought over the counter. However these retinols can be very potent so a small dab every other night is usually the recommended dosage.
  • Microdermabrasion or Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion as well as chemical peels can help you get started on the road to smooth skin. However, if you are planning on going this road, you should know that you’ll have to get regular sessions for this type of treatment since KP is a chronic condition.
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