What is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis Pilaris (ker-uh-TOE-sis pih-LAIR-is) is also known as KP because, well, the name is long and can be tricky to pronounce. KP is a common, harmless skin condition that’s considered a variant of normal skin. These patches of dry, rough, tiny bumps that resemble pimples are actually a build up of keratin, or dead skin cells, under the surface that cause hair follicles to become trapped.
How to know if it’s KP
- Typically found on the upper arms, cheeks, thighs, and buttocks
- Patch of skin feels rough and dry like sandpaper
- Bumps resemble pimples
- Worsening happens when seasonal changes cause low humidity and dry skin
- Appear in different colors, including the same color as your skin, white, red, pinkish purple (on fair skin), and brownish black (on dark skin)
How to treat KP
To help smooth out the skin affected by KP we suggest using Glow Peel Pads. The key ingredient being glycolic acid, which helps exfoliate and remove dead skin cells to keep hair follicles from getting trapped under any build up.
For best results, we recommend:
- Using the Glow Peel Pads daily on the body to keep dead skin cells from building up.
- Moisturizing 2-3 times a day (we love Hydrating Lotion or BodiFirm) to help the dry, rough texture of the skin.
- Applying a moisturizer within five minutes of getting out of the shower for maximum hydration + results.
The key ingredient to find in a moisturizer is urea. Urea is a component of the natural moisturizing factor produced by the skin. Urea is a humectant, which means it is able to absorb moisture from the environment and draw it to the skin. In addition, urea is also an emollient that softens and smooths the skin.
Not sure if the bumps on your cheeks are KP or something else, like milia? Check out our ‘All About the Eyes’ post here.
