subject: Top 3 Tips to Get Rid Of Keratosis Pilaris [print this page] Having keratosis pilaris is not uncommonHaving keratosis pilaris is not uncommon. In fact, a large number of people suffer from this skin condition even without them really noticing. The small rough bumps appearing mostly at the back of the upper arms and the buttocks are actually manifestations of a hereditary skin problem called keratosis pilaris. These small rough bumps are often mistaken to be some other kind of skin problem like atopic dermatitis, ichthyosis vulgaris, acne, dry skin, eczema, or other skin allergies. These skin problems are usually the reasons why people visit the dermatologist only to be diagnosed with keratosis pilaris. While this skin condition is not contagious or medically dangerous, a lot of people who have it would like to get rid of it. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to get rid of keratosis pilaris, from natural remedies to chemical treatments.
There are simple ways to get rid of this skin condition. For most people, these simple ways are good enough to treat their skin condition. Although, you have to be willing to let the treatments work for a couple of weeks or months before you can expect to see any results. Even dermatologic and chemical treatments need to be done repeatedly over long periods of time to be truly effective. Here are some tips to get rid of keratosis pilaris on your own:
1. Wash and exfoliate daily. You have to make sure that you cleanse your skin everyday using a mild soap or cleanser. There are a number of trusted brands available in your local pharmacy or drugstore. Make sure to use those that are free of any harsh chemicals. Steer clear of anti-bacterial soaps as these may prove to be too harsh for your skin. A mild exfoliant cream used with a gentle exfoliating scrub like a loofah or a shower puff will also help clean the skin of particles clogging the pores. Be careful not to scrub too much or you will end up with a more severe skin condition.
2. Keep your skin hydrated. You need to make sure that your skin has enough moisture. Dry skin feels scaly and rough, and is less elastic. Drinking enough water and avoiding activities that strip your body of moisture, like prolonged bathing and over-sunning yourself, will help keep your body hydrated. After taking a bath, make sure to simply pat your skin dry and then apply a layer of lotion to keep the body's moisture in. You can ask your skin doctor which lotion would work best for your skin. These lotions normally contain lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and urea among others.
3. Go clean and green on your diet. No one can underestimate the power of eating your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. It has been proven time and again that eating a healthy diet results in better looking skin. Staying away from preservatives and chemicals in the food that you eat could actually help you clear out your skin of keratosis pilaris. Along with your fiber, B vitamins, vitamins A, C, and D, and other nutrients, a good dose of Omega-3 fatty acids such as those contained in flax and hemp seeds and salmon treats keratosis pilaris over time.
