What is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that results in dry, rough-feeling bumps on the skin, usually on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks. These tiny bumps are often compared to goosebumps or the skin of a plucked chicken, hence the term “chicken skin.” It results from a buildup of keratin, a complex protein that protects the skin from harmful substances and infections that clogs the hair follicles.
Although these bumps are harmless, they appear unsightly and can cause confidence issues.
How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris
Laser Treatments
Laser treatments such as laser hair removal, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), and laser resurfacing can treat KP skin conditions. They work by targeting the hair follicles with short pulses of light, causing the hair follicle to close so Keratin can’t get locked into it anymore. It also can reduce the redness caused by KP. It can take anywhere from 6-12 sessions to see optimal results with laser treatment. After you are done with your sessions, you should come 2-4 times a year for maintenance treatments.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels resurface and gently exfoliate the skin with a combination of acids such as glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acid. Chemical peels help break down the bumps caused by KP and dissolve away dead skin for a smoother one. We recommend receiving chemical peels for chicken skin treatment bi-weekly until you achieve desired results and coming in monthly for monthly maintenance treatments.
Skin Care
Cleansers and creams aren’t just for the face – they can also be used on the body! Here are three skincare products we recommend using to help reduce the appearance of KP:
1. Retinols: Retinols are considered the gold standard of skincare. Regular use of retinol can minimize the appearance of acne, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation and also works well to smooth KP. Retinols are derived from vitamin A, which helps regulate skin cell turnover and encourage appropriate shedding of skin cells.
2. Essential Clarifying Cleanser: Our powerful acne-fighting and a resurfacing blend of Salicylic and Glycolic Acid in their purest and most potent form is found in this cleanser and can be used to treat KP without over-drying the skin. It powerfully and effectively removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, while the Green Tea Polyphenol Technology allows it to be gentle, calming, and soothing on the skin.
3. Essential Toning Pads: Similar to the Essential Clarifying Cleanser, our Essential Toning Pads combine Glycolic and Salicylic Acid but are convenient easy-to-use pads. These pads gently exfoliate the skin to remove surface oils, clear blemishes, and refine pores for an even-toned, clear complexion. These pads can treat KP bumps on smaller areas, such as the face and upper arms.
All three of these products are available for purchase in our clinic.
Achieve Clear, Smooth Skin Today
Interested in treating Keratosis Pilaris? Let our office provide you with a customized treatment plan! Our office is ideally located for clients from San Ramon, Orinda, Blackhawk, Alamo, Livermore,and throughout the Bay Area. To learn more about the different types of approaches to treating Keratosis Pilaris, call or text our office at 925.855.1773, or submit an online consultation form.