Keratosis pilaris is a commonly occurring follicular skin ailment, characterized by the appearance of dry skin and/or irritated or inflamed papules. These skin papules lend the disease its nickname of 'goose bumps' and 'chicken skin.'

The manifestation of this skin ailment is linked to keratin buildup. Unfortunately, it is not completely known why this extra keratin is created. Genetics and dry skin are also related to the appearance of this skin ailment.

Keratosis pilaris can appear in a number of ways. Keratosis pilaris rubra refers to the instance when red, sometimes acne-like bumps appear. Keratosis pilaris alba refers to rough, dry skin with bumps and no irritation; they are not painful. Warty or scaly papules are categorized as keratosis follicularis.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

Topical corticosteroids, urea, retinoids and immunomodulators are a few of the prescription treatments available to treat keratosis pilaris. To combat inflammation resistant to over the counter solutions, a doctor might prescribe topical corticosteroids. Apply a very thin layer two times daily, or as indicated by your doctor or dermatologist. Be careful to follow your doctor's orders as application in excess can slow collagen production and cause thinning of the skin. Corticosteroids can cause lightening of the skin on your face. Additionally, these types of keratosis pilaris cream treatments can blemish your skin and clothes.

Urea treatments might be prescribed to treat rough and dry skin. Urea, however, is created by the body to eliminate nitrogen waste and one might want to take a moment to consider this type of remedy before putting urea back into the body.

Retinoid creams and ointments are another form of treatment. Retinoids increase the rate at which follicular epithelial cells reproduce. A thin application to troubled areas is advised at bedtime. At one time, you should not apply to more than 20% of your skin as side effects are redness, extreme dryness, and/or peeling. You can find lower concentrations of topical retinoids or as an emollient cream to reduce the degree of these adverse effects. At the beginning you might be advised to apply every other day and slowly increase repetition as your skin becomes accustomed. Burning and pruritus are common side affects of the first four weeks and normally end with time. Retinoids should be avoided by women who are pregnant or are looking to become pregnant. Protect yourself against the sun if going outside and make sure not to make contact with your eyes or mouth when applying.

Topical immunomodulators can also be used as a last resort. Topical immunomodulators minimize inflammation by inhibiting T cells. Application is usually instructed as twice daily. If your remedy consists of an immunomodulator and moisturizer, remember to apply the moisturizer afterwards. As with other keratosis pilaris treatments, take the necessary steps to protect yourself against exposure to sunlight and UV rays. Initial side effects include skin irritation due to a warming or burning sensation; these effects typically subside before the end of the first week of treatment.

A plus with immunomodulators is that it can be used by young children, even 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

Solve your keratosis skin problems without the chemicals in a prescription. Start over with a clean slate by undergoing a cleansing or detoxifying program and then make a few lifestyle and dietary changes. By upping your intake of essential fatty acids and vitamin E, you can help your body in its natural shedding and recovery process.

In addition, you pursue a natural keratosis pilaris lotion. Salix Nigra (Willow) Extract and/or Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder are good natural alternatives to look for in a natural keratosis pilaris remedy. These ingredients have a natural keratolytic effect, dissolving those pesky keratin plugs that form the skin papules characteristic of keratosis pilaris.

A plus for seeking out a natural remedy is that you can more safely treat keratosis pilaris in children.