Characterized by dry skin and papules, keratosis pilaris is a frequently occurring skin disorder. These bumps on the skin give it its nickname of 'chicken skin' or 'goose bumps.'

An excess of keratin, plugging the hair follicles, causes the papules. Research is still being conducted to discover the root cause of the surplus keratin. It is probably a genetic disorder and dry skin might also contribute to its manifestation.

There are a number of variants of keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris rubra describes the manifestation of red, inflamed bumps. Keratosis pilaris alba refers to rough, dry skin with bumps and no irritation; they are not painful. Warty or scaly papules are categorized as keratosis follicularis.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

Keratosis pilaris prescription treatments include topical corticosteroids, retinoids, urea and topical immunomodulators. If over the counter solutions are ineffective against skin inflammation, corticosteroids can be prescribed to treat inflammation. Only a very small amount is needed at each application, smoothed on two to four times a day. Be careful to follow your doctor's orders as application in excess can slow collagen production and cause thinning of the skin. Do not apply to the skin of your face unless advised by a doctor; corticosteroids can cause unwanted lightening of skin tone. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying as this type of keratosis pilaris cream treatment can stain both skin and clothing.

Urea can also be used to cure rough skin symptoms. Urea, however, is created by the body to eliminate nitrogen waste and one might want to take a moment to consider this type of remedy before putting urea back into the body.

Topical retinoids can also be prescribed as a solution to keratosis pilaris. Retinoids increase the rate at which follicular epithelial cells reproduce. Unless otherwise directed, apply a very small amount at bedtime. At one time, you should not apply to more than 20% of your skin as side effects are redness, extreme dryness, and/or peeling. To avoid such restriction, you can also go for a lower concentration topical retinoid or find an emollient cream. To assist your body in becoming accustomed to the strength of the treatment, apply initially every other day and work up to daily. Additional side effects include burning and pruritus, but these typically disappear within a few weeks. As retinoids are teratogenic, women planning on becoming or who already are pregnant should not use this form of treatment. Steer clear of eyes and mouth as well as harmful UV rays.

Topical immunomodulators can also be used as a last resort. This type of treatments inhibits T cells in order to reduce inflammation of skin. Apply twice daily or as otherwise instructed to troubled areas. If your remedy consists of an immunomodulator and moisturizer, remember to apply the moisturizer afterwards. Protect yourself against sunlight and UV rays when you leave; don't go outside uncovered. Manifested symptoms include warming or burning of the skin; this irritation typically disappears within a weeks time.

A plus with immunomodulators is that it can be used by young children, even as young as 2 years old. Unlike corticosteroids, immunomodulators do not thin the skin due to the inhibition of collagen production. Although not fully research, until instructed safe, pregnant women and those with immune deficiencies should avoid this type of treatment.

Keratosis Pilaris Natural Treatment

Solve your keratosis skin problems without the chemicals in a prescription. Start over with a clean slate by undergoing a cleansing or detoxifying program and then make a few lifestyle and dietary changes. By upping your intake of essential fatty acids and vitamin E, you can help your body in its natural shedding and recovery process.

Furthermore, you can apply a biological keratosis pilaris lotion. Salix Nigra (Willow) Extract and/or Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder are good natural alternatives to look for in a natural keratosis pilaris remedy. These natural elements have a keratolytic effect that dissolves the keratin plugs that cause keratosis pilaris bumps.

These ingredients are safe for treating keratosis pilaris in children as they do not contain the harsh chemicals used in prescription treatments.