foto: freepik.com
Brilio.net - Keratosis pilaris is a fairly common skin condition and is often known as "chicken skin". This is because the skin looks rough with small bumps resembling freshly plucked chicken feathers. Although harmless and painless, keratosis pilaris can cause discomfort and interfere with appearance. It is no wonder that a number of people are looking for what keratosis pilaris is and how to treat it. For more information, you can read the information below as summarized by briliobeauty.net from various sources, Tuesday (27/8).
What is keratosis pilaris?
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Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition in which hair follicles become clogged with keratin, a protein found in the outermost layer of skin. This blockage results in small, red or white bumps that typically appear on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks. Although they may look like small pimples, keratosis pilaris is not painful or dangerous, but it can leave your skin feeling rough and dry.
According to dermatologists , keratosis pilaris is most common in teenagers and young women, but it can occur in people of any age. It tends to worsen during the winter, when skin is drier, and usually improves in the summer with higher humidity.
Causes of keratosis pilaris.
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Keratosis pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that functions to protect the skin from infections and harmful substances. In people with keratosis pilaris, keratin is not released properly from hair follicles, causing clogged pores and small bumps to form.
Some factors that can increase the risk of keratosis pilaris include:
- Genetic factors are often passed down in families.
- Skin that tends to be dry is more prone to keratosis pilaris.
- People with atopic dermatitis or eczema are more likely to experience keratosis pilaris.
photo: freepik.com
Although keratosis pilaris cannot be completely cured, there are several ways to manage and improve the appearance of skin affected by this condition. Here are some ways recommended by dermatologists:
Quoting from Healthline, Tuesday (8/27) regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. Use a gentle scrub or a product that contains chemical exfoliants such as lactic acid or glycolic acid. Quoting from the same website, you need to avoid excessive exfoliation which can worsen irritation.
Moisturizers containing urea or lactic acid can help soften and smooth skin affected by keratosis pilaris. According to Dr. Doris Day, citing Healthline, urea helps soften and remove dead skin cells, while lactic acid helps exfoliate and increase skin hydration.
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that help increase skin cell turnover and prevent keratin buildup in hair follicles. Proper use of topical retinoids can help reduce bumps and improve skin texture. However, consult a dermatologist before using retinoids, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Choose skincare and cosmetic products that are non-comedogenic or do not clog pores. Products that clog pores can worsen keratosis pilaris and cause further irritation.
Shower with warm, not hot, water and avoid soaps that contain harsh detergents that can dry out the skin. Gentle, moisturizing soaps are better for skin prone to keratosis pilaris.
If the skin is very itchy or inflamed, your dermatologist may recommend using a topical corticosteroid cream to reduce inflammation and irritation.
Keratosis pilaris requires consistent treatment to see significant results. Don't expect instant results, as improvement may take weeks to months of regular treatment.
(brl/wen)
