Keratosis Pilaris: The Acne that Isn’t
Keratosis Pilaris is anything but rare. It is a skin condition that effects 40% of us, and is frequently mistaken for acne. Taking a look at it, it’s easy to see why so many make this mistake. Keratosis Pilaris (KP) appears as small, rough red bumps that most commonly form on the back of your upper arms, though it can crop up in other areas of the body as well. Similar to white or blackheads, your pores are usually visibly clogged, with tiny pustules surrounding your hair follicles. Other common problem areas include your thighs and chest.
If you’ve tried to treat KP with typical acne treatments, chances are you’ve found that they don’t work (of course, most of those treatments don’t work for acne either, but that’s another story…). There is no cure for KP, and while it is harmless and often less visible than a bad acne cyst, it can still be unpleasant to live with. One giveaway that separates KP from acne is that KP bumps don’t go away. Most acne blemishes will heal and eventually vanish if the pustule is removed, but KP is stubborn. Even if you pop a KP bump, it will come right back, right in the same place, over and over and over.
KP can occur at any age, and often goes hand-in-hand with dry skin. Keeping your skin properly moisturized can at least help diminish its appearance. This doesn’t just mean using a topical moisturizer. Drinking plenty of water is always the place to start when it comes to dry skin. Get those 8 glasses of water per day. Furthermore, supplementing with vitamin E and/or fish oil (or better yet, krill oil) can be a powerful way to keep your skin healthy and supple.
Proper exfoliation can also be somewhat effective against KP. I’d stay away from salicylic acid. Glycolic acid appears to give many KP sufferers better results. Just remember not to nuke your skin too bad (apply twice per day at the most!). Warm showers and a textured bath sponge can also make a difference. However, DO NOT just scrape at your skin with your fingernails. This will often lead to scarring, and can get you the exact opposite result that you want.
If you’ve got KP, stay calm. With the right steps you can minimize its appearance. Get desperate and take the wrong steps, and you’ll make it worse. I’d start with a daily krill oil supplement and regular (gentle) scrubbing in the shower every morning. It’s not acne, so don’t treat it as such, and for heaven’s sake don’t attack it.
