subject: How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris Home Remedies [print this page] How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris Home Remedies
How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris Home Remedies
Is your skin rough and red, with tiny bumps giving the appearance of Chicken Skin?
Are others in the family also affected by the same condition? Does this condition aggravate in the cold season? If so, you would most probably be suffering from Keratosis Pilaris or KP as it is commonly known. You will find that more than 50% of the world's population, particularly in the colder regions, suffers from KP, which is fortunately totally harmless, the only consequence being of a cosmetic nature.
KP is a genetic condition brought about by clogging of the skin pores by a substance called keratin, of which the skin cells are made. When the skin is unable to naturally exfoliate the dry cells on its surface, these dry skin particles settle at the base of the hair, clogging the follicles and dilating the blood vessels beneath the upper layer of the skin, thus causing it to appear inflamed. It occurs generally on the upper arms, legs, buttocks, thighs, etc. However, there is no itching or other discomfort associated with KP, which generally affects women more than men, especially during pregnancy and after child birth.
The condition responds easily to home remedies which are basically very simple.
Lactic acid, present in milk and milk products such as yogurt and cream, acts as an exfoliating agent, removing the excess keratin from the surface of the skin, preventing clogging in the process. Thus, a paste made of sugar and cream should be applied very gently on the affected surface prior to a shower and it should be gently patted dry thereafter. The point to keep in mind is that any rubbing or rough handling of the affected skin, will only serve to intensify the problem, hence mild application is necessary. After a bath, Vitamin E oil if applied on the skin, will help to keep it moisturized. Cocoanut oil can also be used with equally beneficial results.
It is also recommended to include foods containing omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in the diet.These fatty acids help to regulate the amount of keratin produced.
