Keratosis Pilaris Home Remedies

Keratosis pilaris is apparently not too well-known, yet, a common skin condition that affects over 50% of the world population. Usually misunderstood for acne, it has similar symptoms, like bumpy, uneven dry skin, pimples, etc.

Generally, the bumps have the same color as your skin, but sometimes, they may look red or inflamed, known as keratosis pilaris rubra faceii. The affected area of the skin becomes darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation) than the surrounding skin, and also gets dry and clapped.

This problem can occur at any age and to anyone, but, it is more common in women than men, especially, during puberty, pregnancy, and childbirth. Though these bumps don't hurt and are harmless, they can affect an individual's confidence and can have an adverse psychological impact on its sufferer. On that note, keratosis pilaris home remedies are given here.

Keratosis pilaris does not occur due to any fungal, bacterial, or viral infection, also it is not related to hormonal or sebaceous glands, it primarily occurs when the protein (keratin) in dead skin cells plugs hair follicles (tiny duct-like openings) and causes the bumps to form.

This skin disorder is specifically dominant in those who are overweight, or have celtic backgrounds, atopic dermatitis, or ichthyosis. It is non contagious and is occurs more often in dry, winter months, and tends to improve in summers when humidity level is high.

Usually, it disappears naturally with age, but some people for immediate cure opt for over-the-counter medications, including glycolic acid or lactic acid, which help in dissolving the bumps around the hair follicle. However, other than these treatments, there are various home remedies that are effective and have no side effects.

The most basic and simple solution is to wash your face gently with soft soaps, especially if you have a sensitive skin. Vigorous scrubbing or removal of the plugs may irritate your skin and worsen the condition.

Gently exfoliate with the help of a loofah, washcloth, or an exfoliating cream, and after washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel to retain some moisture on the skin.

Moisture is very effective in curing bumps on the face, hence frequent application of moisturizing cream or lotion containing urea and propylene glycol helps soften, thick rough skin. Since the condition is more prevalent in winter months, keep the temperature of your home between 68 to 70º F to ensure that the air inside the room is not very dry.

Though there are many over-the-counter creams containing lactic acid, which help in removing the build up of keratin, at times, these creams can cause skin irritations.

Hence, it is anytime better to prepare a home face pack, containing a teaspoon of granular sugar with two tablespoons of sour cream, and then, gently rubbing this mixture in circular motions on the affected area.

Since lactic acid is a natural component present in the milk and yogurt, having exfoliating properties, applying yogurt on the face before bath for 15 - 20 minutes helps cleansing excess keratin deposits from the skin and makes skin smooth and clear.

An effective solution is to improvise your diet by including loads of fruits and vegetables, rich in vitamin A and vitamin E, and omega-3 essential fatty acids.

Salmon, flax seed, and walnuts are all excellent food sources for omega-3 fatty acids; while, tomatoes, mangoes, papayas, green-leaf vegetables, carrots, and pumpkins are rich in vitamin A and vitamin E, hence, all these food items help improving the skin texture by regulating abnormal proliferation of the outer skin layers.

Avoid food allergens and other possible allergens that can aggravate your condition, like chlorine treated water systems, pet dander, molds, dust mites, fluoride in toothpaste, and harsh detergents or chemicals. Also, stay away from irritants or pollutants, like smoking, perfumes, laundry detergents, etc., that are strongly scented, dust mites and mold.

Since this condition worsens in winter than any other season, exposing your body in sunshine for 15 - 20 minutes is another effective solution. Drinking approximately 8 - 10 glasses of water daily will not only keep you hydrated, but will also flush out unwanted toxins from the body.

I hope after reading this article, you will be having a fair idea about what this skin ailment is and what are the different ways to get rid of it. However, even after following these simple tips, you are still bothered by bumps and dry skin, consult your dermatologist to elucidate the case.

Disclaimer: This BeautiSecrets article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.