Time for a little lesson on those weird bumps on your arms that pretty much everyone gets that almost look like goosebumps. In case you are in the dark like me and just called it “weird arm bumps,” let’s call it by its real name, keratosis pilaris… I think I preferred “weird arm bumps.” KP, for short, or often called “chicken skin” (definitely the worst name out of the three) isn’t anything to worry about medically. Essentially, it’s a build up of dead skin cells within your hair follicles. Oddly enough, It doesn’t have anything to do with oil production or hormones like a vast majority of other skin issues. Good news is KP can be treated if it’s something that really gives you grief. Bad news is, it never completely goes away (kind of like my ex). Let’s focus on the positive though because we can minimize KP in a few different ways.ExfoliationTopical exfoliation creams:Because KP is a build up of dead skin cells, exfoliation is pretty much a no brainer. You can use topical exfoliant creams (creams that contain alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid or urea) to help remove the dead skin cells. These creams usually have moisturizing properties as well to help soften the dry skin.
Is this stuff meant for your face? Yes. Does it still work for other parts of your skin? Yes. This toner has all the ingredients we love for unclogging the pores. Alpha-hydroxy acid, you the real MVP here.
"Supercharged blend of 10% AHAs gently exfoliates to restore and resurface dull and uneven areas, while its mix of soothing plant oils, deeply moisturizing butters, and barrier-supporting electrolytes replenishes dry and dehydrated skin.” Sounds like a winner to me!Physical exfoliation: Another technique for exfoliation is using a physical scrub or exfoliating glove/sponge (ex. hammam glove). Personally, I like to use Moroccan black soap with a hammam glove to scrub off the dead skin. It might just be the gross physical gratification I get from seeing actual crap (aka dead skin) coming off my skin, but I’m definitely a fan of the physical exfoliants. Yeah, sorry for that mental picture, but if you’ve ever been to a Turkish bath, they use this method and I’ve never felt so baby smooth in my life! Both types of exfoliants have merit, but be careful using scrubs or sponges because they can cause skin irritation if you use too much pressure. Learn more here.
If you google KP treatment, this is the first product that comes up because it’s literally meant for KP unlike some of the other products that work amazingly, but technically aren’t labeled specifically for keratosis pilaris. Best part about this one is that you can pick it up cheap at Walmart or Amazon, oh and the fact that it works of course. Learn more here.
Here’s that hammam glove and Morrocan black soap, I promised! This stuff is great for scrubbing off all dead skin cells, not just for KP. And, it’s super satisfying.
These types of creams are used to prevent the plugged follicles from ever happening. They promote cell turnover to keep the dead skin cells from clogging up the hair follicles. Topical retinoids contain Tretinoin and tazarotene, both of which are derived from Vitmain A. Retinoids come with a few caveats though, as they aren’t for everyone. They can irritate and dry the skin out. Some retinoids may also need to be prescribed by a dermatologist.
But you just told me that KP has nothing to do with oil production or hormones so why is an acne treatment on the list? Because retinoids have multiple uses, one of which is treating acne, they are a great way to help eliminate keratosis pilaris.
The great thing about all of these products is that they do in fact treat keratosis pilaris. Unfortunately, KP is one of those things that either goes away permanently over time, or has to be constantly treated in order for it to stay away though. Just work one of these lovelies into your weekly routine and you won’t have to worry about those “weird skin bumps” any longer.
