Have you ever felt frustrated by rough, bumpy skin on your arms or legs, often described as chicken skin? Keratosis Pilaris affects many patients, causing tiny, hard bumps that might make you self-conscious. But what causes this common condition? Is keratosis pilaris a result of a fungal infection? Let’s clear the air and provide you with the answers you need to take control of your skin health.
Is Keratosis Pilaris a fungal infection?
Keratosis pilaris is not a fungal infection. But a common genetic skin condition where the skin produces excess keratin. This excess keratin accumulates at the hair follicle, leading to clogged pores that appear as small bumps. Factors that may exacerbate this condition include dry skin, a genetic predisposition. And certain skin conditions like eczema which can make the bumps more inflamed and noticeable.
Typically, this condition is harmless and mainly affects the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks. The bumps are usually white or red and can feel dry and rough to the touch.
Effective treatments for keratosis pilaris
While there is no cure for keratosis pilaris, several treatments can significantly reduce its appearance and soothe the skin. Our approach involves understanding your skin’s unique characteristics and tailoring treatments to effectively address your concerns.
1. Laser Hair Removal – For some patients, laser hair removal provides an effective solution. By targeting and reducing hair growth, this treatment can help minimise the buildup of keratin around the hair follicles, smoothing out the skin’s texture over time.
2. Dermapen Microneedling with Chemical Peels – Another promising option is combining Dermapen microneedling with a chemical peel. This treatment plan works by gently exfoliating the top layer of skin, removing dead skin cells, and promoting the regeneration of smoother, healthier skin. The microneedling process also stimulates collagen production, improving the overall elasticity and appearance of the skin.
Treat KP at home
Treating Keratosis Pilaris goes beyond occasional clinical treatments; it requires a daily commitment to specific skincare routines that make a real difference. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or new to skin care routines, managing KP effectively means engaging with your skin’s needs every day.
- Start with a salicylic acid cleanser. This isn’t just any cleanser; it’s a pivotal first step in managing KP. Salicylic acid dives deep into the pores, helping to dissolve the keratin plugs that cause those frustrating bumps, and exfoliates the skin to leave it smooth and ready for further treatment.
- After cleansing, apply a gentle chemical exfoliator. Ingredients like glycolic or lactic acid penetrate the skin subtly yet effectively, triggering exfoliation at a cellular level. This step is crucial for removing dead skin cells and smoothing the skin’s surface without harsh physical scrubbing that can irritate KP-prone skin.
- Moisturise and protect. Finish with a specialised moisturiser that combats dryness without causing irritation. Look for formulas enriched with salicylic or lactic acid to continue the gentle exfoliation process. Additionally, incorporating retinoids in your nighttime routine can regulate keratin production and prevent further clogging of hair follicles, thereby reducing the appearance of bumps.
This integrated approach – cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturising – will help to manage the symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris effectively, keeping the skin clear and well-hydrated at home. Remember, consistency is key to seeing and maintaining visible results.
If you’re tired of temporary solutions and are looking for a lasting change, it’s time to consider a more holistic approach to treating keratosis pilaris. Connect with us to discover how our bespoke treatment plans can help you achieve smoother, clearer skin. Remember, in the story of your skin health, you are the hero, and we are here to guide you on your journey to unlocking the best version of your skin.
