Keratosis pilaris, also known colloquially as "chicken skin," usually first appears in childhood and primarily affects girls and young women. While generally harmless from a medical perspective, keratosis pilaris is a significant burden for many sufferers due to its unsightly appearance. Proper skincare can provide relief.
Harmless keratin deposits
When the keratinization of the skin around the hair follicles is disrupted, resulting in the formation of nodules, this is called keratosis pilaris. It is not a disease, but rather a likely genetically determined condition that affects up to 80% of all children and adolescents. The nodules are harmless and are caused by deposits of keratin – a natural, endogenous protein found in the stratum corneum, hair, and nails.
Skin like sandpaper
The severity of keratosis pilaris varies from person to person, which also means that the associated negative effects differ significantly. Most sufferers complain of rough skin on the outer sides of the upper arms, the front of the thighs, the buttocks, and/or the cheeks. The skin in these areas feels like sandpaper. Furthermore, many people find the bumps unsightly – especially when they appear on the face. This, in turn, can be psychologically distressing.
All skin types are affected.
Unlike other skin conditions and diseases, keratosis pilaris affects both light and dark skin types equally. However, the keratin deposits differ in that the bumps appear more reddish on lighter skin, while they tend to look browner on increasingly darker skin tones. Keratosis pilaris is completely harmless in all ethnicities and usually resolves on its own, which is why it is significantly less common in adults.
cosmetic support
There is currently no cure, nor is one considered medically necessary. However, for those who wish to address keratosis pilaris cosmetically, there are a number of measures that promise relief:
- cleaning
The affected areas of skin should be cleaned regularly and thoroughly with pH-neutral soap or wash gel. Browse through our products – you're sure to find the right one for cleansing your skin.
- Care
Moisturizing skincare with creams or lotions containing urea can refine the skin's appearance. Skincare products containing salicylic acid can also be beneficial (e.g. , [W]ASH AWAY Purifying Gel Cleanser ).
- Peelings
Firstly, superficial calluses can be removed at home with scrubs. Secondly, regular treatments with fruit acid peels by a dermatologist or esthetician are recommended. These can open clogged pores and remove deeper calluses.
- Sun
Vitamin D is good for the mind and the skin. Regular sun exposure can strengthen the skin's resistance thanks to the positive effects of UV-A and UV-B radiation. Always ensure adequate UV protection, e.g., BGS sunscreen (SPF 30) .
- liquid
Proper skin hydration is essential. Besides using the right skincare products, this can be easily achieved by drinking enough fluids, such as water and unsweetened teas.
- Microneedling or laser treatments
The affected skin is perforated using very small needles or a laser. This promotes both the breakdown of keratin deposits and the formation of healthy cells.
Don't let keratoris pilaris worry you. There are things you can do about it!
