Keratosis Pilaris: Battling KP

Written By Nayla

So…

What is KERATOSIS PILARIS?

The Latin term keratosis means ‘scaly skin’, and pilaris means ‘hair’.

More officially, keratin is what our hair and nails are made of:

A type of protein found on epithelial cells, which line the inside and outside surfaces of the body. Keratins help form the tissues of the hair, nails, and the outer layer of the skin.

In other words, the keratin forms layers within the hair follicles, piling on top of each other. Left unchecked this may create the hardened bumps we recognize as keratosis pilaris, aka KP.

These bumps tend to be rough, and sometimes itchy. They are effectively harmless, NOT contagious…really more of an eyesore than anything else. KP usually presents as skin-coloured, however bumps may show signs of PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or PIE (post-inflammatory erythema) depending on an individuals’ skin tone or if they have been scratching areas in question.

What are the most common areas, you ask?

Keratosis pilaris most commonly presents on the extensor surfaces of the upper arms and thighs.

The buttocks, trunk, chest, face, and distal extremities can also be involved.

But, what causes it?

Contributors include tight clothing, dry skin, and lack of exfoliation. There may also be a hereditary component, i.e., some people are more prone to getting it than others.

If you think about it - our skin is designed to protect us; it responds differently on different parts of your body. For example, the skin on your hands and feet has to accommodate a range of motion and tactile functions, whereas the skin at your joints has to accommodate a wide range of motion and friction. These are expressed differently but are uniquely suited to their tasks.

When your body compensates for friction by creating excess keratin to protect itself on your arms, legs, etc. it’s simply trying to do its job, albeit too effectively.

Alright…so what can I do to battle KP?

The method or specific products, that YOU find most effective will boil down to personal preference, and may change depending on the season or even your environment. Luckily there are several:

  • dry brushing,

  • chemical exfoliators (aha, bha, or retinol in the form of body washes or creams),

  • scrubs,

  • occlusives (oil, heavy moisturizer),

  • laser hair removal*

*Last year I almost forgot I used to have KP. After completing a laser hair removal series for my upper legs I realized how unbelievably smooth they were when it clicked:

With less hair growing in the problem areas there was less available keratin to start the process in the first place(!!!).

I should add, that, by no means did I have a severe case & it was concentrated to a small area (backs of my thighs) but it’s 99% gone now - my only reminders are when I get lazy and don’t moisturize well.

Here are some body care products I’ve used personally that helped with staying silky smooth and keeping KP at bay (updated periodically):

Nayla
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Retinol: The holy grail?