Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition in which keratin forms hard plugs within the hair follicles. Keratin is a kind of hard protein that protects the skin from infection and other harmful substances. A buildup of this protein clogs the opening of the hair follicles and forms a scaly plug as a result of which rough patches which consist of small acne like bumps appear on the skin. The bumps are red or white and have sandpaper like texture.
These goose bumps generally appear on the buttocks, thighs, arms and cheeks. Though this condition is harmless, it can be very frustrating if the bumps become inflamed and cause scarring. Often there is no itching but some people experience intense and unbearable itching. The reason for the keratin buildup is unknown but it is generally associated with genetic diseases and people who have a dry skin or atopic dermatitis are more prone to suffer from it. The flare-ups are much worse during the winter months and often clear during the summer.
Easy Remedies For Keratosis Pilaris
Olive Oil
It is of paramount importance to keep the skin well moisturized at all times. Instead of using commercial moisturizers and lotions which contain chemicals, it best to resort to natural moisturizers like olive oil.
Take some olive oil and rub it all over your affected skin for five to ten minutes. Apply the oil again as soon as your skin begins to feel dry and you must rub it on your skin each night before going to bed.
Curd And Whole Grain Wheat Flour
It is important to exfoliate your skin so that all the accumulated dirt, oil, dead skin cells and other impurities come away leaving the pores clean and well able to breathe.
Mix some curd and whole grain wheat flour to form a paste. Apply the mask all over your skin and leave it dry. Rub off the mask with a gentle pressure then bathe with warm water.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is very good for all kinds of skin conditions and infections. It has great healing and cleansing powers. Take a fresh aloe vera leaf and after cutting away the thorny edges, slit it in the center.
Rub the gel side onto your skin for five to ten minutes. Keep for fifteen minutes then rinse with normal water. Apply two or three times daily to remove the buildup of keratin.
Sugar And Honey
Make your own scrub by combining sugar and honey to form a paste. Then rub the paste all over the affected skin. Rub, in circular motions so that the buildup of dead skin, oil and keratin can be dislodged from within the pores. Wash off with warm water. Use this scrub once everyday before you take your shower.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has huge nourishing, healing and moisturizing properties. It works wonders for the skin and keeps it soft, smooth and in a healthy condition. Rub coconut oil all over the skin two or three times during the day and each night before you go to bed at night.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.