Characterized by dry skin and papules, keratosis pilaris is a frequently occurring skin disorder. These bumps on the skin give it its nickname of 'chicken skin' or 'goose bumps.'

The bumps are formed due to keratin plugs in the hair follicles. Unfortunately, it is not known what causes the excess production of keratin. It is probably a genetic disorder and dry skin might also contribute to its manifestation.

There are a number of variants of keratosis pilaris. Red, inflamed bumps are categorized into keratosis pilaris rubra. Dry skin with bumps that are not irritated or painful are categorized into keratosis pilaris alba. Keratosis follicularis is characterized by scaly or warty-crusted papules.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

Keratosis pilaris prescription treatments include topical corticosteroids, retinoids, urea and topical immunomodulators. To combat inflammation resistant to over the counter solutions, a doctor might prescribe topical corticosteroids. Only a very small amount is needed at each application, smoothed on two to four times a day. Just as with any hydrocortisone ointment, extra precaution should be taken in its use as excessive application can lead to the inhibition of collagen production and lead to thinning or weakening of the skin. Do not apply to the skin of your face unless advised by a doctor; corticosteroids can cause unwanted lightening of skin tone. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying as this type of keratosis pilaris cream treatment can stain both skin and clothing.

Another type of remedy used to eliminate rough and dry skin associated with keratosis pilaris is a urea concentrated treatment. The body creates urea from nitrogen waste as a means of eliminating protein byproducts from the body and you, therefore, might want to rethink this prescription treatment.

Another treatment option is the use of topical retinoids. Application of topical retinoids increases the turnover rate of follicular epithelial cells. Apply a thin layer to affected skin at bedtime. Even if your suffering from a very bad outbreak, you should not apply product to more than 20% of your skin at one time as side effects include extreme dryness, redness and/or peeling. To avoid such restriction, you can also go for a lower concentration topical retinoid or find an emollient cream. Initial application should rotate every other day and slowly be increased as the skin adjusts to concentration. Pruritus and burning can be common for the first month but will generally disappear on their own. Retinoids should be avoided by women who are pregnant or are looking to become pregnant. Steer clear of eyes and mouth as well as harmful UV rays.

Topical immunomodulators can also be used as a last resort. Topical immunomodulators minimize inflammation by inhibiting T cells. Apply twice daily or as otherwise instructed to troubled areas. If you are prescribed both pimecrolimus and a deep moisturizer, make sure to apply the immunomodulator first. Be smart and take the necessary precautionary steps before exposing yourself to the sun. Initial side effects include skin irritation due to a warming or burning sensation; these effects typically subside before the end of the first week of treatment.

A plus with immunomodulators is that it can be used by young children, even as young as 2 years old. Collagen production is not inhibited by immunomodulator use and therefore does not thin the dermis. Until proven safe, those with immune deficiencies as well as pregnant women should not apply immunomodulators as a treatment for keratosis pilaris.

Keratosis Pilaris Natural Treatment

There are a number of natural treatments to fight keratosis skin. In addition to a cleansing program, a few simple changes to your diet can improve your skin. Make sure you are consuming enough essential fatty acids and vitamin E to ensure your body's ability to shed toxin-filled skin.

In conjunction with these healthy changes, find an all-natural keratosis pilaris lotion. Salix Nigra (Willow) Extract and/or Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder are good natural alternatives to look for in a natural keratosis pilaris remedy. These ingredients work to naturally dissolve keratin, thereby eliminating the hard keratin plugs that cause the formation of papules.

Be confident in the safety of your product when treating keratosis pilaris in children; choose a product without the harsh side effects found in prescriptions.