Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis Pilaris a.k.a “KP” a.k.a “chicken skin’ a.k.a “strawberry legs” is a very common skin condition. It affects both children and adults. More bothersome than harmful, it is easily recognizable and can be treated at home.

What is KP? It is a skin condition which occurs as a result of excess keratin on the skin which the plugs the hair follicles leading to the skin looking like you have goosebumps and feeling rough to touch. It is commonly seen on the shoulders, back of the arms, front of the thighs and sometimes the buttocks. May also be seen on the legs as a result of shaving.

Can this condition be treated? Absolutely but may take a while in some cases

Treatment

To be honest, you do not need to see a dermatologist to treat this except it has defied home remedies or it is actually not KP. Look for products with AHAs – glycolic and lactic acid, BHA – salicylic acid, emollients (especially those that contain urea).

  • Start by using exfoliating gloves. I like the ones from The BodyShop or Soap & Glory. You can also consider the kessa sponge (once a week only please) or the Korean Exfoliating Bath Towels (available on Amazon). Be careful not to overexfoliate.
  • Use the gloves with a bath gel like the Bioderma Atoderm, L’Occitane, Dove or any moisturizing shower gel as dry skin worsens the condition
  • Ensure your shower or bath water isn’t too hot and this will dry out your skin
  • While your skin is damp after your shower, apply moisturizer to seal in moisture. 
  • Don’t forget your sunscreen as you are using AHAs and BHAs which make you prone to sunburn.
Results from a participant on the skincare course

Effective products for KP:

  • Cerave SA Lotion or Cream and Wash for Rough, Bumpy Skin 
  • Amlactin Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion
  • Eucerin Intensive Repair Lotion
  • First Aid Beaity KP Eraser Body Scrub
  • Glytone Exfoliating Wash and Lotion
  • Jan Marini Exfoliating Wash and Lotion
  • Alpha Skincare Renewal Body Lotion
  • Neutrogena Body Clear Pink Grapefruit Body Wash
  • Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid
  • Paula’s Choice Weightless Body Treatment
  • Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion
  • Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion

PS: SPEAK TO A PAEDIATRICIAN BEFORE APPLYING AHAs or BHAs ON CHILDREN

Have you ever had KP? How did you treat it?

xx

ThatGeminiGirl

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2 Comments

  1. Thank you for this post Bisi.
    I never realised the pink grape fruit by neutrogena was an MVP in this area of KP, i will never look at it the same again.
    Presently use the Bioderma Atoderm bath oil daily, glytone body cream and wash 1x a week on different days and this has helped the Kp on my thighs

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ABOUT ME

Hi Everyone
 
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Those who know me personally or follow me on Instagram can attest to the fact that I love skincare. Thanks to my mum and aunt, I have been very interested in skincare since I was a teenager and would try all sorts of products on my face. Luckily I didn’t get acne as a teen but age happened and my skin went crazy.
 

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