Keratosis Pilaris treatment for your Arms

Have you heard how to treat keratosis pilaris ? If not, you may have seen it before. They are clusters of red bumps that form due to excess dead skin cells build up on people’s arms, thighs, and buttocks. Often mistaken as acne, keratosis pilaris is benign and harmless to the skin. However, this “chicken skin” condition has no permanent cure because they are caused from a genetic disorder.

Contact a dermatologist about your skin conditions.

Those who suffer from keratosis pilaris may be embarrassed since it is difficult to conceal and treat. Here are several tips and treatments for those who have keratosis pilaris.

1. Vitamin A deficiency  

One reason why people may suffer from keratosis pilaris is that  they are deficient in Vitamin A. A healthy intake of vitamin A encourages normal keratinization, which prevents dry, flakey skin build up. Eating foods rich with vitamin A like fish, carrots, and liver can encourage healthier skin growth.

Studies have also shown that patients who used retinoids, like tazarotene cream, have experienced a reduction in keratosis pilaris. Because retinoids have cell antiproliferative properties, they inhibit the growth of more skin cells and prevent keratin (skin) buildup. Dermatologists also recommend retinoids for those who suffer from acne scars as they can help fade scarring as well.

 

2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

Dry skin can easily trigger keratosis pilaris. A common assumption that people make is that it should be treated as body acne, and as a result, they use harsh exfoliants. However, using harsh ingredients will only cause  more irritation and redness.

Instead, individuals should use gentle exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids. Not only are they more gentle, they are also extremely effective in  controlling those red bumps. Alpha hydroxy acids are able to control keratinization and shed off the layers of dead skin cells. This allows new room for new and healthier skin to grow.

3. Laser Treatment

Another form of treatment is through laser. However, only people who suffer from severe keratosis pilaris should consider laser treatment. Results may vary depending on the individual. Therefore, it’s important to discuss with a doctor or dermatologist about your condition before deciding to use laser treatment.

 

Overall, keratosis pilaris can be an extremely frustrating skin disorder. Although it does not pose any physical  harm, it can have a negative emotional impact on the patient. The best results come from treating your condition with gentle, yet effective treatments. If you believe that you’re suffering from keratosis pilaris and want to get it confirmed, ask a board-certified dermatologist today.