Keratosis Pilaris on Face

Keratosis pilaris is a condition where small bumps appear on the skin, especially on the areas like the upper arms, legs, thighs and the buttocks. The reason for the development of these bumps is over production of keratin, which is the fibrous scleroprotein found on the outer layer of the skin. Sometimes, it can also affect the face, especially the cheek. This type of keratosis pilaris is known as keratosis pilaris rubra faceii, or in short, KPRF. This skin condition can often be mistaken for acne. It usually causes bumps to appear in patches, for which the entire cheek can look red and inflamed. Apart from KPRF, there are two other common types of keratosis pilaris, known as keratosis pilaris rubra and keratosis pilaris alba.

Causes and Symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris
It is generally considered a genetic follicular condition, characterized by the over production of keratin. Excess production of keratin clogs the hair follicles, and causes the appearance of small bumps on the skin. The bumps are usually painless, and can be red or skin colored. Usually, the patches of skin affected by this condition become very dry and chapped, and may itch at times.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatment
No cure is available for this condition, however, it can be managed to a great extent with regular skin care and certain prescription medications. Such medications include topical retinoids, ammonium lactate cream, and moisturizers containing urea and topical corticosteroids. These topical creams and lotions can help to soften the dry and rough skin patches, caused by this condition. Even exfoliating the skin with urea and glycolic or salicylic acid containing lotions, and exfoliators can help to remove the dead skin cells, and soften the affected area. However, scrubbing the face vigorously in order to get rid of dead skin cells can aggravate the condition. So, the affected skin needs to be treated gently.

Keratosis Pilaris Home Remedy
Exfoliation and moisturizing are the most effective ways to keep it under control. In this regard, one can get significant benefits from using lotions that contain alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids. Even the moisturizers with urea and propylene glycol can provide significant relief in this skin condition, by helping to soften the rough skin patches. People with this skin condition should take every possible measures to ensure that their skin does not dry out, especially during the winter days. Hence, they should avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers, and always keep the area well moisturized. the skin. Using a humidifier in the room can help to prevent excessive dryness of the skin.

Lactic acid is an effective natural remedy. Milk contains lactic acid and hence, using yogurt on the affected area can improve the condition. Otherwise, you can go for the creams or lotion that contain lactic acid. You can also mix sugar and sour cream to make your natural exfoliator for removing the dead cells from the affected area. Evil coconut oil can prove quite beneficial for reducing the symptoms. The ideal way to use it is to gently rub some coconut oil on the affected area, before taking shower and then rinse off the excess oil. Another home remedy that can be used is raw apple cider vinegar. Just dip a cotton ball in cider vinegar and then gently apply on the affected area of the skin.

Along with these treatment options and home remedies, your diet could also play an important role in controlling the symptoms. The ideal diet for skin problem is the one that is rich in vitamin A, E and essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 essential fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Daily sun exposure for 15 to 20 minutes too can help to manage the condition. However, if your symptoms are severe in nature, or a large number of bumps appear on the skin, then be sure to take the help of a dermatologist.