Keratosis pilaris is a big name for a very common skin condition. Keratosis pilaris, also known as KP, is characterized by benign bumps on arms and sometimes legs. Some people also get red bumps on their face.

This common skin condition is caused by a buildup of keratin. When the skin does not shed properly or sheds unevenly, both keratin and dead skin cells begin to clog the pores. This is what produces the visible skin bumps.

Keratosis pilaris normally goes away with age, 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.

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

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 moderate the formation of a new stratum corneum (outer most layer of the skin) 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 before. It is now more difficult for keratin and dead cells to block the hair follicles.

Salicylic acid, however, has a double effect on keratosis pilaris. It acts on the surface, much like AHAs, but it can also penetrate the hair follicle and help regulate the rate of shedding from within. Salicylic acid can also help treat acne problems.

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

Using Mechanical Exfoliation to Treat Keratosis Pilaris

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

For people with sensitive skin, a natural acid exfoliator will help them deal with keratosis pilaris treatment. By natural acid exfoliator 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.

KP may seem harmless but sometimes bacteria associated with kp causes infections that can lead to more serious problems. That is why it is important to keep it under control even if there is no actual keratosis pilaris cure. Luckily, natural skin care products such as BIOSKINTREATMENT can quickly and gently dissolve skin bumps.