How I Got Rid of Keratosis Pilaris

Got those weird little bumps on the backs of your arms, butt, or legs? The dreaded “Strawberry Skin” and prominent, reddish pores? You might have keratosis pilaris, which is also known as KP. This is a skin condition that is considered to be benign and does not pose any health threats but I reallllllly hate how it makes my arms, especially in winter.

What is KP?

This skin condition causes the appearance of dry, rough patches and small, hard bumps that are usually found on specific areas of the body, such as the upper arms, thighs or buttocks. Although the bumps are not typically accompanied by any discomfort such as itching or pain, they can cause cosmetic concerns.

The good news is that while there's no "cure", it can be managed to a non-issue level with the use of products that help to improve the overall condition and appearance of the skin. Some doctors will say it clears up in your mid-30s, but my dermatologist laughed right along with me when I asked her if that’s the case.

What is KP?

The occurrence of Keratosis pilaris is due to an accumulation of keratin, which is a strong protein that acts as a shield to defend the skin against harmful substances and infections. The accumulation of this protein obstructs the openings of hair follicles, leading to the formation of patches of skin that are rough and bumpy in texture. Those hard little bumps just under your skin are the plug that forms. Yuck!

The exact reason for the buildup of keratin in individuals with Keratosis pilaris is not well understood, although it is thought to be related to genetics or other skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Additionally, it has been observed that dry skin can exacerbate the symptoms of Keratosis pilaris. Hot showers in the wintertime? Definitely flares it up! And climate plays a huge role. Personally, I notice my KP almost goes away when I spend an extended amount of time in a warm, humid climate, and as much as I want to hang out with the Caribbean or Florida team, I have to come home once in a while to the dry, arid climate of the Rocky Mountains.

Ok. That’s nice. HOW DO I GET RID OF IT?

Again, if your dermatologist or doctor tells you it will just “go away on its own,” that may or may not happen. In the meantime, you may be advised just to keep your skin moisturized by slathering on heavy lotions and creams. I’d say yes, and no. All those commercials saying in 14 days your skin will look as digitally enhanced as their spokesperson make me yell at the tv!

The process is easy and yes, you CAN make a big difference in less than 14 days.  Here are the key steps:

  • STOP picking/scratching at it and no matter how tempting, and STOP extracting the bumps, more will come and you'll look like a meth user
  • Utilize both chemical and physical exfoliation
  • Avoid drying out the skin and keep it moisturized but don't use cheap, heavy, pore-clogging lotions.
  • Hot showers will help with exfoliation but know they can dry out your skin fast, so be sure to put on lotion right away after a shower.

My dermatologist recommends products with AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), lactic acid, urea, salicylic acid, and non-petroleum-based moisturizers. In fact, she said to use the strong acid-based serums I use on my face on the affected areas if they work.

Here's what I use to keep my kp from coming back:

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1. Shed Your Dead Skin: The Exfoliating Mitt

Those meshy-looking spa gloves, the cheap “Japanese washcloths” or even your favorite loofah- are just not going to get the kind of exfoliation these mitts get.

They are witchcraft. They are ONLY for use with water. You cannot use them with soap and should use them before you get soap or shampoo on your skin. Warm your skin up with a nice hot piping shower, and then scrub gently in a repetitive, back and forth motion. The dead skin will roll up and off your body. It’s disgusting and magical all at once. And then you use your soap and body wash, and marvel at how clean you feel!

2. Don’t Neglect Chemical Exfoliation

Chemical exfoliation is a process that uses chemical agents to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Unlike mechanical exfoliation, which uses physical scrubbing agents, chemical exfoliation uses chemical agents to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and whisk them away.

The most popular players in the chemical exfoliation game are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). AHAs are like gentle giants, water-soluble and best for removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. BHAs are powerhouses, oil-soluble and are able to penetrate the pores to exfoliate deep within the skin.

But before you go crazy with chemical exfoliants, remember to use them in moderation. Overuse can lead to skin irritation, redness, and sensitivity, which is the opposite of what we're trying to achieve here.

My favorites are below. I alternate them. *whispers behind hand* The Farmacy also makes a fantastic acid deodorant, and more on that here.

3. Keep Your Skin Moisturized.

And lastly, be sure to use a good lotion once your serums and potions have soaked in.