Keratosis pilaris sounds like something you wouldn't want to get, but it is actually a big name for a very common skin condition. KP, which is short for keratosis pilaris, is characterized by benign skin bumps on arms. Some people also get red bumps on their face.

This common skin condition is caused by a buildup of keratin. When the skin does not shed properly or sheds unevenly, both keratin and dead skin cells begin to clog the pores. This is what produces the visible skin bumps.

Keratosis pilaris will usually fade as we age, but it can be a nuisance especially if the bumps get infected. If you want to treat this condition then look for products that contain chemical exfoliators such as AHAs, salicylic acid, and Vitamin A (or retinoids). Look for keratosis pilaris lotions that contain any of these ingredients.

Effects of AHAs, Salicylic Acid and Vitamin A on Keratosis Pilaris Bumps

Alpha hydroxy acids are derived from different types of foods. The most common AHAs are derived from sugar cane, milk, citrus fruits, and almonds.

AHAs help control the formation of a new stratum corneum through diminished cellular cohesion between corneocytes at the lowest levels of the stratum corneum. This means that the stratum corneum can slough off at a higher rate than normal. It now becomes more difficult for keratin and dead cells to clog the hair follicles.

Salicylic acid has a double effect on keratosis pilaris. It acts on the surface, much like AHAs, but it can also penetrate the hair follicle and help regulate the rate of shedding from within. Salicylic acid can also help you deal with acne problems.

Vitamin A (retinol or retinoids) can help treat keratosis pilaris because it makes the outer layer of the skin grow more rapidly. Consequently, decreasing the amount of keratin in the skin. As a result, the pores are less likely to get clogged because the surface layer of the skin has become thinner.

Mechanical Exfoliation & Keratosis Pilaris

Mechanical exfoliation is also a good way of removing excess keratin, dead skin cells, and keratosis pilaris bumps. You can either use homemade or natural scrubs to slough off the keratin buildup. Sugar is a good option because it is much more gentle with your skin than salt and it is inexpensive.

If you have sensitive skin, try using a natural acid exfoliator as your keratosis pilaris treatment. By this I mean grape juice or milk. Both products contain natural acids that can help to safely remove excess sebum, debris, and dead skin cells from the skin's surface.