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Ever noticed a bumpy, rough texture on the skin of your arms and legs that resembles an allergic reaction but isn’t? This semi-permanent state of goosebumps is actually a dermatological condition known as keratosis pilaris, also called strawberry or chicken skin.
While painless, KP can be uncomfortable to deal with and often presents itself as a non-itchy rash—red or white, hive-like bumps that appear in patches across areas of your arms, legs and other parts of your body—which can be a tad unsightly for some. Thankfully, this skin condition can be managed with the right kind of body care products and routine, and we will show you how.
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Simply put, keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that occurs due to the blockage of hair follicles. Essentially, it’s a buildup of protein (keratin) that creates a plug, blocking your hair follicles and resulting in tiny bumps. Inflammation around the plug can lead to redness. Prevalent in those with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions like eczema, KP tends to flare up more in winter than in summer. The key to managing or minimising the appearance of keratosis pilaris lies in following a stringent shower routine that helps exfoliate the skin without being too harsh.
Those with keratosis pilaris need to steer clear of any shower gels or soaps that are harsh on the skin. Opt for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas that reduce dryness while smoothing the bumps on the skin. You can even look for formulas with mild exfoliating properties and acids like glycolic or salicylic acid. Regular use of these active ingredients will simultaneously exfoliate the dead skin cells (keratin buildup), preventing the blockage from occurring.
While chemical exfoliation can help soften the skin, incorporating a mild physical scrub will also aid in smoothing the bumps. Tread carefully though, as excessive pressure and vigorous scrubbing can irritate the skin and cause further inflammation for those with extremely sensitive skin. You can either opt for a dry brush or exfoliating mitt. Pair these with a hydrating and nourishing body scrub that removes all the buildup without damaging the skin.
…but not just any body lotion. Look for serum-infused moisturisers with AHAs, BHAs or retinol, as these help smooth the bumps caused by KP while minimising breakouts, hyperpigmentation and other skin concerns. Retinol—a vitamin A derivative—helps regulate skin cell turnover, reducing the chances of future flare-ups. Apply lotion or cream to damp skin post-shower, in the direction of your hair growth, for best results.
Simply put, keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that occurs due to the blockage of hair follicles. Essentially, it’s a buildup of protein (keratin) that creates a plug, blocking your hair follicles and resulting in tiny bumps. Inflammation around the plug can lead to redness. Prevalent in those with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions like eczema, KP tends to flare up more in winter than in summer. The key to managing or minimising the appearance of keratosis pilaris lies in following a stringent shower routine that helps exfoliate the skin without being too harsh.
Those with keratosis pilaris need to steer clear of any shower gels or soaps that are harsh on the skin. Opt for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas that reduce dryness while smoothing the bumps on the skin. You can even look for formulas with mild exfoliating properties and acids like glycolic or salicylic acid. Regular use of these active ingredients will simultaneously exfoliate the dead skin cells (keratin buildup), preventing the blockage from occurring.
While chemical exfoliation can help soften the skin, incorporating a mild physical scrub will also aid in smoothing the bumps. Tread carefully though, as excessive pressure and vigorous scrubbing can irritate the skin and cause further inflammation for those with extremely sensitive skin. You can either opt for a dry brush or exfoliating mitt. Pair these with a hydrating and nourishing body scrub that removes all the buildup without damaging the skin.
…but not just any body lotion. Look for serum-infused moisturisers with AHAs, BHAs or retinol, as these help smooth the bumps caused by KP while minimising breakouts, hyperpigmentation and other skin concerns. Retinol—a vitamin A derivative—helps regulate skin cell turnover, reducing the chances of future flare-ups. Apply lotion or cream to damp skin post-shower, in the direction of your hair growth, for best results.
Simply put, keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that occurs due to the blockage of hair follicles. Essentially, it’s a buildup of protein (keratin) that creates a plug, blocking your hair follicles and resulting in tiny bumps. Inflammation around the plug can lead to redness. Prevalent in those with sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions like eczema, KP tends to flare up more in winter than in summer. The key to managing or minimising the appearance of keratosis pilaris lies in following a stringent shower routine that helps exfoliate the skin without being too harsh.
Those with keratosis pilaris need to steer clear of any shower gels or soaps that are harsh on the skin. Opt for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas that reduce dryness while smoothing the bumps on the skin. You can even look for formulas with mild exfoliating properties and acids like glycolic or salicylic acid. Regular use of these active ingredients will simultaneously exfoliate the dead skin cells (keratin buildup), preventing the blockage from occurring.
While chemical exfoliation can help soften the skin, incorporating a mild physical scrub will also aid in smoothing the bumps. Tread carefully though, as excessive pressure and vigorous scrubbing can irritate the skin and cause further inflammation for those with extremely sensitive skin. You can either opt for a dry brush or exfoliating mitt. Pair these with a hydrating and nourishing body scrub that removes all the buildup without damaging the skin.
…but not just any body lotion. Look for serum-infused moisturisers with AHAs, BHAs or retinol, as these help smooth the bumps caused by KP while minimising breakouts, hyperpigmentation and other skin concerns. Retinol—a vitamin A derivative—helps regulate skin cell turnover, reducing the chances of future flare-ups. Apply lotion or cream to damp skin post-shower, in the direction of your hair growth, for best results.
