Do you have keratosis pilaris? Here’s how to treat KP naturally

By Gaelyne Leslie September 04, 2023

Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that most people have never heard of—even if they suffer from it. This common condition appears as little bumps on the skin, but aside from that, symptoms are relatively mild, and often shrugged off as dry skin. That’s why many people never receive a diagnosis, and wouldn’t even know they have KP!

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris, while irritating, is totally benign. It does not pose a serious health threat. That being said, KP presents as small, painless bumps on the skin, around hair follicles, usually the arms, legs, and buttocks. The bumps contain excess keratin, the protein that feeds your hair, nails, and epidermis, which becomes clogged in the pore instead of releasing.

The bumps may appear red, brown, white, or similar to your skin colour.

KP is also incredibly common—ask certain dermatologists and they’ll tell you it’s a skin type, not a medical condition! Estimates say 50-80% of teenagers will experience KP, and 40% of adults will have KP at some point in their lives.

Why keratosis pilaris occurs

Researchers haven’t identified the cause of keratosis pilaris, but it’s widely believed to be tied to a genetic trait. If parents have KP, it's usually found in their children too.

KP most typically occurs in babies, toddlers, children, and teens, and can often become worse during puberty. Many people grow out of KP in adulthood.

Studies have found that keratosis pilaris is more likely to be found in people with fair or light skin, those who suffer from asthma, Cushing’s syndrome, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.

What are the symptoms of keratosis pilaris?

The most common symptom of KP are tiny hard bumps that appear on the surface of the skin. Many people experience no other symptoms besides the bumps, but some have reported itchy, or dry skin, irritation on the bumps, discolouration of the skin, rough skin, and worsening of the bumps during drier, colder months.

How to treat keratosis pilaris

While completely harmless and fine if left untreated, many people do find the bumps irritating and look for remedies to clear their KP. Thankfully, keratosis pilaris is easily treated with natural remedies.

Keratosis pilaris is often made worse by dry skin, so maintaining a healthy routine to hydrate skin is key for battling KP! Gently exfoliate skin once or twice a week with one of our body polishes. This will help slough off dead skin and product buildup, which prepares skin to receive hydration.

Speaking of hydration…using a rich lotion, like our Body Butter, will deliver immediate relief to dry skin, and with daily use, you’ll maintain deep-seated hydration for nourished, soft skin.

Along with regular exfoliation and moisturization, it’s best to avoid long, hot showers or baths, which can dry out your skin, and avoid shaving or waxing areas where you suffer from KP.

Thankfully, the treatment for keratosis pilaris is part of a healthy skin care routine. You shouldn’t have to buy new, chemical-laden peels and scrubs. With natural Crawford Street Skin Care, and healthy self care habits, you can treat keratosis pilaris pain-free.