What is Keratosis Pilaris, and how do you get rid of it?

Chicken skin, the never ending goose-bumps, whatever you want to call it, we want to see the back of Keratosis Pilaris...

Chicken skin, the never ending goose-bumps, whatever you want to call it, Keratosis Pilaris can be the absolute pits.

But, if your arm yourself with a bit of knowledge and the best treatments available, you can keep the symptoms at bay. Here's what you need to know about managing the condition.

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris is a common condition (up to 1 in 3 people in the UK have it) in which your skin becomes rough and bumpy, as if covered in goose pimples.

It most commonly affects the skin on your back, your upper arms and sometimes the skin on your thighs, but that's not to say that you can't get keratosis pilaris anywhere else. Other variants include eyebrows, face scalp, or your entire body.

Patches of affected skin will be covered in tiny bumps and almost look like 'chicken skin'. It also tends to get worse in winter, due to the harsh weather and better in summer when your skin is exposed to more Vitamin D.

What causes Keratosis Pilaris?

Unfortunately it's usually hereditary, so if your parents suffered from KP, it's likely that you'll suffer from it too. This is because your skin is prone to a build up of keratin in the hair follicles.

Keratin itself is a protein found in the tough outer layer of your skin, which causes the surface of the skin to thicken. When this excess keratin blocks your hair follicles, it widens your pores, causing a bump.

How to treat Keratosis Pilaris

The bad news is you can't 'cure' Keratosis Pilaris as such, but you can relieve the symptoms a great deal. Non-fragranced, non-soap cleansers will be your best friend, as will the best body scrub you can find. Both of these will soften the area, making KP a lot less visible and far more comfortable.

Aveeno Skin Relief Body Lotion With She Butter, £8.09 Beauty Expert

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You don't want to wash your skin with anything that will dry out your skin or clog pores further; look for products that will speed up cell turnover (usually with the inclusion of salicylic acid), unclog pores and soften your skin.

Ameliorate Fragrance Free Transforming Body Lotion, £22.50 Space NK

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If you're a sufferer - don't let it stop you wearing vests or t-shirts this summer.

Where there's a will, there's a way.