A patient of mine called me the other day wanting to resolve her Keratosis Pilaris (AKA Chicken Skin) before her upcoming wedding. She was worried about revealing her arms in her strapless dress and having the red, swollen bumps show.

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris is a common but harmless condition in which keratin (a skin protective protein) builds up and blocks the hair follicles. It typically appears on the thighs, butt cheeks and backs of the arms but for some these annoying small red bumps can appear on the face. These bumps often worsen when the skin is dry and in the colder, drier winter months.

What causes Keratosis Pilaris?

While the exact cause of Keratosis Pilaris is unknown there are a number of factors that contribute to its development: genetics, lack of dietary fats, nutrient deficiencies and hormone balance.

How do I get rid of these embarrassing little bumps?

Follow the strategies below to eliminate that frustrating Chicken Skin:

• Limit your use of hot water; it leaves the skin drier and the bumps more inflamed.
• Use unscented soaps that are rich in natural oils like coconut, argan, olive, castor, rice bran and shea.
• Avoid over exfoliating, rubbing or scratching the affected skin.
• Keep skin hydrated at all times. This means moisturizing throughout the day with natural oils and creams. I highly recommend products that contain grape seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, cranberry seed oil, rosehip oil and aloe. CV Skinlabs Body Repair Lotion is a great option.
• Run a humidifier in your bedroom throughout the night.

Within a few days of initiating the above plan my lovely patient reported that the backs of her arms had improved dramatically and she was no longer embarrassed to wear her gorgeous wedding dress.

While this simple protocol may benefit some, it is always encouraged to assess other contributing factors and ensure that it is not an indicator of more troublesome but less visible concerns. To learn more about how I can help you heal your skin from the inside out contact me here.

Have a beautiful day!

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