In this article, we dive deeper into chicken skin (which looks like acne but isn’t) and explore a few ways to deal with it effectively.
What Is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that occurs when the keratin component of the skin forms hard plugs in your hair follicles. This chicken skin-like appearance does not lead to any serious health complications, but it can be annoying and can affect your confidence. It is usually seen in people with very dry skin or eczema. Sometimes, especially in the winter months, it can cause itching. However, it is not contagious (2). Laine, a blogger, recounted her struggle to find relief from keratosis pilaris (KP). She states in her blog, “I had numerous bumps on my arms, all over my legs, my face and neck and it felt like hell. I couldn’t sleep because they’re so itchy. I couldn’t stop myself from scratching my skin and that made everything look even worse (i).” She continues, “I did almost everything, I bought over-the-counter medicine for allergies, anti-itch ointments and creams, you name it. Nothing worked.” This shows her frustration about the lack of a cure for KP and her attempts to alleviate the symptoms with various over-the-counter remedies, ointments, and creams. According to a report published in StatPearls, keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that mostly affects adolescents, with a prevalence rate of 50% to 80%. The disorder is also seen in adults as it was further estimated that 40% of the adult population is affected by it as well. Dr. Steven Line, MD, says, “Keratosis pilaris typically does not spread to other areas of the body, but the bumps can appear in multiple locations. It is a chronic condition, meaning it tends to persist over time, but it can improve or worsen, depending on various factors, such as humidity, cold weather, and skin dryness, and it often improves or resolves by the age of 30. It is considered benign and doesn’t cause any harm to the body. It is more of a cosmetic concern for most people.”
How To Get Rid Of Keratosis Pilaris?
Although chicken skin or keratosis pilaris cannot be eliminated altogether, you can reduce the severity and make the red marks fade away with the right methods, like gentle exfoliation. You will need to opt for both internal and external solutions. Below listed are the top methods to combat this skin condition:
1. Coconut Oil For Keratosis Pilaris
2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Do this every day. Coconut oil acts as an excellent keratosis pilaris home remedy, and it is good not only for your hair but for your skin as well (3). Its unique fatty acids soften the skin and provide nourishment from within. The strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil help heal skin inflammation over time (4).
2. Essential Oils For Keratosis Pilaris
2-3 drops lemon essential oil 2-3 drops lavender essential oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
Repeat this twice a day. Lemon oil contains antioxidants that will keep your skin healthy (5). It also has antifungal properties that will keep the skin infection-free (6). Lavender oil aids the lemon oil in keeping the skin healthy with its antibacterial properties (7). It also soothes the skin and the mind (8).
3. Diet To Help Keratosis Pilaris
To combat keratosis pilaris and its symptoms, merely applying products and extracts externally is not enough. You also need to eat the right kind of foods. This will offer your body the required nutrients and antioxidants to battle skin conditions like Keratosis Pilaris better. Include these in your diet to improve skin health:
Fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in probiotics and minerals, like zinc. Have at least five servings in a day.
Vitamin A and E-rich foods such as mangoes, pumpkins, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, etc.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids fish oil, and lean meat.
4. Cod Liver Oil For Keratosis Pilaris
Cod liver oil capsules Take two capsules in a day. Continue taking the liver oil capsules for a few weeks to heal the keratosis pilaris. Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory and healing properties (9). Cod liver oil supplements are often recommended for a healthy body and skin.
5. Glycolic Acid For Keratosis Pilaris
Cream or lotion containing glycolic acid Do this twice a day till the keratosis pilaris is gone. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid. It has skin exfoliating properties. It will remove the dead skin cell build-up and exfoliate the accumulated keratin (10). It also reduces the skin inflammation (11).
6. Apple Cider Vinegar For Keratosis Pilaris
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon honey
Repeat this every day for best results. ACV, on topical application, acts as a chemical exfoliant. It will remove the dead skin cells and excess keratin that are causing the formation of the bumps on the skin. It also doesn’t allow any infections to develop (12). Coconut oil and honey act as emollientsi Substances that trap moisture in the skin and form a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. and moisturizers (4, 13).
7. Tea Tree Oil
2 drops tea tree essential oil 10 drops coconut oil
Repeat this twice a day. Tea tree oil purifies the skin, making it clear and healthy. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties will aid in giving you quick relief from keratosis pilaris, without developing any infections (14).
8. Aloe Vera
Fresh aloe vera gel Cotton pad
You can use organic aloe vera gels available in the market. You can repeat this twice or thrice a day. Aloe vera gel is not only soothing for the skin, but it also has healing and moisturizing effects. Topical gel application is very beneficial for the skin (15).
9. Argan Oil
Argan oil Massage the oil on the affected area and leave it on. Repeat this twice a day and you will start seeing results in a few days. Argan oil is a non-greasy oil that nourishes the skin. It contains vitamin E that helps in maintaining a healthy and blemish-free skin. Argan oil is also effective in healing wounds and scars (16).
10. Baking Soda
2-3 tablespoons baking soda Water
Do this every day before taking a shower. Baking soda removes dead skin cells and improves blood circulation to give the skin a smooth and polished appearance (17). It also reduces the skin inflammation (18).
11. Scrub
1 tablespoon granulated sugar 2 tablespoons sour cream
Use this gentle exfoliating scrub every alternate day. The lactic acid content of sour cream is an effective solution to remove the bumps of keratosis pilaris (19). The scrubbing motion with sugar will also remove dead skin cells (20).
12. Lactic Acid
Cream with at least 10% lactic acid Apply this all over the affected area and massage for a minute or two so that it is absorbed easily by the skin. Apply this cream twice a day for best results. Like glycolic acid, lactic acid is also a type of alpha hydroxy acid. It exfoliates and hydrates the skin, and helps in getting rid of keratosis pilaris (10).
13. Witch Hazel
A few witch hazel leaves Water
Use witch hazel lotion/tincture if you cannot find fresh leaves. Apply this pack every day until the bumps go away. Witch hazel is a potent herb when it comes to treating skin problems. When the bumps on the skin are due to dry skin or hair removal, witch hazel is an excellent home remedy. It soothes the skin, reduces inflammation and redness, and kills any bacteria that may be present (21).
14. Oatmeal Bath
A handful of oatmeal powder Lukewarm water
Do this at least thrice a week to cope with the condition. To make your skin nourished and reduce the symptoms of keratosis pilaris, take oatmeal baths from time to time. Oatmeal has soothing effects on dry and itchy skin. The saponinsi Chemical compounds found in legume plants that help protect against skin damage due to their antioxidant properties. present in oatmeal cleanse the skin and provide hydration. It also reduces inflammation and moisturizes the skin naturally (22). Apart from trying these remedies, there are many other ways to improve skin texture, involving at-home remedies and professional treatments. These may help remove dead skin cells and give you a smoother skin.
Keratosis Pilaris Causes
The only cause of keratosis pilaris is the keratin build-up in the hair folliclesi Tube-like structures surrounding the root and the hair strands from where the hair grows out. . Keratin protects the skin from infections and other harmful things. Dry skin and atopic dermatitisi A chronic skin condition characterized by irritation, dryness, inflammation, and red rashes on the skin. can trigger the development of these bumps but they can be managed by making some lifestyle changes (1). According to Dr. Line, “The condition is hereditary and tends to be more common in people with eczema or dry skin.” However, no underlying cause for the body to form these bumps on the skin has been discovered. Scroll below to learn more about the common symptoms of this condition.
Keratosis Pilaris Symptoms
Keratosis pilaris is characterized by several distinct symptoms. Individuals with this condition often experience small, raised bumps on their skin that can be white, red, or skin-colored. These bumps typically form on the outer arms, thighs, buttocks, and the face (1). The severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. While some individuals experience only mild, occasional bumps, others may have more persistent and noticeable concerns. Additionally, keratosis pilaris can also manifest as rough, dry, and itchy skin in the affected areas (1). Although the condition is not usually painful, it can be cosmetically bothersome to some individuals. Now that you know the causes and symptoms that come with keratosis pilaris and some remedies to help manage the condition, you may feel a bit more confident in handling the issue yourself. However, there are some self-care tips that can help you even more. Keep reading!
Self-Care Tips
Follow these self-care tips along with the above-mentioned home remedies to alleviate keratosis pilaris:
Exfoliate your skin gently to remove dead cells with a soft brush or loofah. Moisturize your skin regularly to keep it hydrated with a gentle lotion or cream. Avoid using harsh or fragrant skincare products. Limit hot showers and opt for lukewarm water instead. Wear loose-fitting clothing with breathable fabrics to prevent irritation.
Is keratosis pilaris a vitamin deficiency? Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that may be indicative of an underlying vitamin A or vitamin C deficiency. What is the fastest way to get rid of keratosis pilaris? Over-the-counter creams containing lactic acid, urea, and salicylic acid may help accelerate recovery from keratosis pilaris. Does the sun help treat keratosis pilaris? Sun exposure may temporarily help treat keratosis pilaris as it has a peeling effect on the skin. However, it does not cure the condition and may darken the bumps on colored skin. Is vitamin C good for treating keratosis pilaris? Yes, vitamin C is good for treating keratosis pilaris in case it is caused by a deficiency of this vitamin. In addition, vitamin C boosts collagen production that may help improve this skin condition in some cases. Is Vaseline good for keratosis pilaris? Vaseline is an effective moisturizer and may help with keratosis pilaris.
Illustration: Effective Home Remedies For Treating Keratosis Pilaris
Unlock the secrets to combating keratosis pilaris with this enlightening video below showcasing 7 effective home remedies. Check it out now and say goodbye to those pesky bumps and hello to smoother, healthier-looking skin naturally.
