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How to Deal with Keratosis Pilaris

by Catalina Igor

Do you currently have small, white bumps on your upper arms and legs? If the answer is, yes, then you probably have a common skin condition called keratosis pilaris (also known as KP, for short). Keratosis pilaris is a very common problem skin problem that poses no real threat other than the fact that it is unattractive and bothersome.

This skin condition is caused by a buildup of keratin in the hair follicles. Keratin combines with dead skin cells and results in the characteristic skin bumps. Some people may also suffer from red bumps on their face.

Fortunately, the appearance of keratosis pilaris will subside with age, but you don't have to wait a lifetime to see the end of your KP condition. As a matter of fact, this condition reacts well to mechanical and chemical exfoliants.

Treating KP Bumps on Arms and Legs with Mechanical Exfoliants

The use of scrubs is a great option for two main reasons:

*KP may affect larger areas

*Your body skin is much thicker than your facial skin

Unlike most skin care treatments, commercial scrubs are effective, cheap and relatively easy to clean up. You can even choose from a variety of different styles.

Homemade scrubs are cheaper, but also messier to work with. Although, if you're personal preference is inclined to using these scrubs, then try using them in the shower to minimize any mess.

Some natural products used as homemade scrubs include:

*coffee grinds

*sea salt or sugar

*baking soda

*oatmeal

Chemical Exfoliants for Keratosis Pilaris

You can easily find keratosis pilaris lotions that contain AHAs, salicylic acid, or even Vitamin A. These types of products are best for the facial area. Keep in mind, however, that these ingredients can cause irritation, so proceed with caution especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.

AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids are a type of scrub that is derived from different types of foods. The most common AHAs are glycolic acid (sugar cane), lactic acid (milk), citric acid (citrus fruits) and mandelic acid (almonds).

AHAs are beneficial to proper skin care because they are capable of helping moderate the formation of the outer most layer of the skin by helping to reduce the cohesion of skin cells. This means that the stratum corneum can slough off at a higher rate which helps prevent keratin and dead cells from clogging the hair follicles.

Salicylic acid is very special keratosis pilaris treatment that produces a double effect on KP. It acts on the surface of the skin in the same way as AHAs, but unlike AHAs, this ingredient can also penetrate the hair follicle and help regulate the rate of shedding from within.

Vitamin A can help treat keratosis pilaris because it makes the outer layer of the skin grow more rapidly, which therefore, helps decreases the amount of keratin in the skin. As a result, the surface layer of the skin becomes thinner and pores are less likely to get clogged.

Keratosis pilaris or kp causes problems with your own self image. And although no one has found a keratosis pilaris cure, you can treat it by using exfoliants or natural scrubs. BIOSKINTREATMENT is a natural lotion made with Helix aspersa muller extract. This natural ingredient is capable of helping dissolve skin bumps and, therefore, help bring the natural balance back to your skin.

Published March 8th, 2010

Filed in Beauty