Keratosis pilaris is a big name for a very common skin condition. KP, which is short for keratosis pilaris, is characterized by benign skin bumps on arms. Some people also get red bumps on their face.

This skin condition is caused by a buildup of keratin. This happens when the skin does not shed properly or sheds unevenly, leaving both keratin and dead skin cells to clog the pores. This is what leads to the visual skin bumps.

Keratosis pilaris usually goes away as you get older, but it can be a nuisance especially if the bumps get infected. If you want to treat this condition then look for products that contain chemical exfoliators such as AHAs, salicylic acid, and Vitamin A (or retinoids). Just make sure that the keratosis pilaris lotions you purchase or are currently using contain any of these ingredients.

The Effects of AHAs, Salicylic Acid and Vitamin A on Keratosis Pilaris Bumps

AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids are derived from different types of foods. The most common AHAs are glycolic acid (sugar cane), lactic acid (milk), citric acid (citrus fruits) and mandelic acid (almonds).

AHAs help control the formation of a new stratum corneum through diminished cellular cohesion between corneocytes at the lowest levels of the stratum corneum. This means that the stratum corneum can slough off at a higher rate than it did before. Which makes it difficult for keratin and dead cells to clog the hair follicles.

Unlike AHAs, salicylic acid has a double effect on keratosis pilaris. It acts on the surface in the same way as AHAs, but it can also penetrate the hair follicle and help regulate the rate of shedding from within. Salicylic acid can also help address acne problems.

Vitamin A can also help treat keratosis pilaris because it makes the outer layer of the skin grow at a faster pace. Therefore, it decreases the amount of keratin in the skin. As a result, the pores are less likely to get clogged because the surface layer of the skin has become thinner.

Mechanical Exfoliation & Keratosis Pilaris

Mechanical exfoliation is also a good option to help remove keratin, dead skin cells and keratosis pilaris bumps. You can slough off the keratin buildup using homemade or natural scrubs. Sugar is a good option if you want to use an inexpensive and natural exfoliant.

For sensitive skin, try using a natural acid exfoliator as your keratosis pilaris treatment. By this I mean grape juice or milk. Both of these products contain acids that can help remove excess sebum, debris, and dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.