Keratosis pilaris is a commonly occurring follicular skin ailment, characterized by the appearance of dry skin and/or irritated or inflamed papules. Because of these bumps, the skin disorder is often colloquially called 'chicken skin' or 'goose bumps.'

The bumps are formed due to keratin plugs in the hair follicles. Research is still being conducted to discover the root cause of the surplus keratin. It is probably a genetic disorder and dry skin might also contribute to its manifestation.

Keratosis pilaris manifests itself in a number of varieties. Red, inflamed bumps are categorized into keratosis pilaris rubra. Dry skin with bumps that are not irritated or painful are categorized into keratosis pilaris alba. Another variant is keratosis follicularis, when the bumps appear scaly or warty.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

A doctor might prescribe topical immunomodulators, corticosteroids, retinoids or urea as a keratosis pilaris remedy. Prescription strength corticosteroids can be used on affected skin if over the counter solutions are ineffective. Only a very small amount is needed at each application, smoothed on two to four times a day. Be careful to follow your doctor's orders as application in excess can slow collagen production and cause thinning of the skin. Only apply to face if directed by your doctor as it can lead to an undesired lightening of the skin. Additionally, these types of keratosis pilaris cream treatments can blemish your skin and clothes.

Another type of remedy used to eliminate rough and dry skin associated with keratosis pilaris is a urea concentrated treatment. The body creates urea from nitrogen waste as a means of eliminating protein byproducts from the body and you, therefore, might want to rethink this prescription treatment.

Topical retinoids can also be prescribed as a solution to keratosis pilaris. Topical retinoids speed up the rate at which follicular epithelial cells are replaced. A thin application to troubled areas is advised at bedtime. Make sure not to put it on more than 20% of your body as adverse side effects include extreme redness, dryness and peeling. To avoid such restriction, you can also go for a lower concentration topical retinoid or find an emollient cream. At the beginning you might be advised to apply every other day and slowly increase repetition as your skin becomes accustomed. Additional side effects include burning and pruritus, but these typically disappear within a few weeks. Women should take extra caution with this form of treatment if looking to become pregnant as retinoids are absorbed into the body. Steer clear of eyes and mouth as well as harmful UV rays.

Topical immunomodulators can also be used as a last resort. Immunomodulators used in keratosis pilaris therapy act to inhibit T cells, which result in minimizing inflammation. Application is usually instructed as twice daily. If you are prescribed both pimecrolimus and a deep moisturizer, make sure to apply the immunomodulator first. Be smart and take the necessary precautionary steps before exposing yourself to the sun. Side effects include burning but typically fade away within a week.

Topical immunomodulators can be prescribed to children as young as 2 years old. Collagen production is not inhibited by immunomodulator use and therefore does not thin the dermis. Pregnant women and those with an immune deficiency should avoid delving into immunomodulators as adverse effects have not been fully studied.

Keratosis Pilaris Natural Treatment

In addition to prescription medications, one can treat keratosis skin naturally. Start over with a clean slate by undergoing a cleansing or detoxifying program and then make a few lifestyle and dietary changes. Make sure you are consuming enough essential fatty acids and vitamin E to ensure your body's ability to shed toxin-filled skin.

Furthermore, you can apply a biological keratosis pilaris lotion. If you are unsure what you should look for, read the ingredients and make sure extracts such as Salix Nigra and/or Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder are among its constitutents. These natural elements have a keratolytic effect that dissolves the keratin plugs that cause keratosis pilaris bumps.

Be confident in the safety of your product when treating keratosis pilaris in children; choose a product without the harsh side effects found in prescriptions.