Keratosis Pilaris – otherwise known as KP or ‘Chicken Skin’—is just about one of the most common skin disorders you can find. It affects more than 40% of Australian women and is also particularly common in teens.
But what exactly is it? KP is a totally harmless disorder that develops when the skin produces too much of a protein called keratin, which can block hair follicles and cause bumps to develop. Bumps are small, rough and sometimes scaly in texture, and are typically found on the upper arms and buttocks.
Get your skin smooth, soft and summer ready with three simple and effective tips.
Steer clear of tight clothing
This is pretty easy to do in summer, when all you want to do is lounge around in your underwear, but it’s a good reminder for all year round – especially for those who are prone to KP. Tight, non-breathable fabrics or synthetic materials can trap sweat and heat, which can cause itching and irritation. It can also cause friction against hairs, which can trigger blocked hair follicles.
Opt for looser cuts and more breathable fabrics like cotton and bamboo to stop skin irritation before it starts.For instance, if you noticed that the rash has started to spread to the lower parts of your body, such as your buttocks, some experts would recommend switching undergarments with natural materials as soon as possible. Nowadays, women underwear made of bamboo fabric is becoming a popular choice because of its moisture-wicking and thermo-regulating benefits. Thus, preventing skin irritations and providing better comfort all day.
Resist the urge to scrub
Once upon a time we all thought mechanical exfoliants (i.e., those gels and creams with the tiny, gritty bits that were meant to buff your skin to smoothness) were the Holy Grail of skincare. Oh, how we were wrong. In actual fact, mechanical exfoliants are typically too abrasive for human skin, and can end up causing more harm than good – like micro-tears, fine lines, and redness.
Though KP tends to make skin feel dry, bumpy and rough, don’t try to ‘sand yourself smooth’ with a harsh exfoliant. You’ll only end up irritating the bumps further and potentially causing the rash to spread.
Invest in a quality chemical exfoliant
The difference between mechanical and chemical exfoliants is that while mechanical exfoliants work much like, uh, sandpaper, chemical exfoliants contain no rough, gritty beads, and instead work on a molecular level to shift dead skin cells. They work by breaking down the ‘glue’ that binds skin cells to increase cell turnover and rejuvenation. They speed up the cell’s lifespan so that you can slough away the damaged cells faster, and bring out the new, healthier cells that give your skin a smooth, radiant glow.
However, be aware of chemical exfoliants that are too strong, like retinols. Opt instead for products high in AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) like glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid which work to exfoliate AND hydrate in one hit.
Some stellar products to fight KP include:
LANATÉ Face & Body Cream: LANATÉ is a dermatologically developed face and body cream, specifically formulated to fight Keratosis Pilaris. Its unique formula includes 17.5% ammonium lactate, a naturally occurring AHA which helps to exfoliate skin on a molecular level while also hydrating deeply.
LANATÉ, RRP: $29.90
Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion with 10% AHA: Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion 10% AHA is a lightweight leave-on AHA exfoliant. It provides a non-abrasive, gentle way to shed built-up layers of dead skin, resulting in smooth, younger-looking skin.
Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion with 10% AHA, RRP: $34.40
Glycomide Body Cream: Glycomide Body Cream is a rich body cream with 9% glycolic acid formulated to help gently shed dead skin cells, leaving a smoother, more refined texture. High in nourishing oils like rice bran oil, organic cranberry seed oil, and organic jojoba oil Glycomide Body Cream works smooth rough bumps and lumps to reveal smooth, hydrated skin.
Glycomide Body Cream, RRP: $29.99
Keep your skin moisturized
Keratosis pilaris usually don’t cause skin itchiness. However, some people with KP develop skin itchiness because of other existing skin conditions and improper skin care, such as the use of harsh skin products and too much washing. This leads to the skin losing its moisture and triggers itchiness. Thus, people with KP have to ensure to keep their skin moisturized as much as possible.
Aside from using creams and lotions, taking short, warm baths can help maintain moisture in your skin. This home remedy can help loosen and unclog pores. Again, remember to limit your time taking a bath, around 15 minutes or less, because longer wash times can potentially remove the skin’s natural oils. Mind also the temperature of the water as it should be lukewarm rather than hot.
Another solution is to use a humidifier inside your room. Humidifiers can add moisture to indoor air. Thus, it also helps hydrate your skin and avoid itchy flare-ups. Consider the room size when shopping for the right humidifier. A small humidifier can add enough moisture to a compact space.
Takeaway
You can get rid of chicken skin by combining proven conventional treatments and home remedies. Wear comfortable and breathable clothes and underwear. Be careful of the skin products you’ll apply to your skin. Most importantly, consult a dermatologist to ensure that you are using safe products.
