Chicken skin bumps are a skin problem called keratosis pilaris (also known as “KP”). These are very small, thick lumps with a messy texture and are most often found scattered along the upper arms and thighs. However, the cheeks, back, and buttocks may be affected at one time or another. They are infuriating, ugly, chronic, and more common than we thought. This condition wreaks havoc on many people’s complexions as it forms a raised, uneven, bumpy surface and an uneven, nutmeg-grater appearance. It is often quite noticeable. Inflammation within each hair follicle can cause embarrassing little red or brown dots to form under each miniature mound of keratin.
Facts:
1. It affects 50% of the world’s population
2. This is more common in children and adolescents; 50% to 80% of children have this condition.
3. This condition affects 4 out of 10 adults.
4. Women are slightly more likely.
5. Most people with this condition are unaware that there is not only a designated medical term for the condition, but that there is a treatment.
6. It’s inherited, you need a gene from one parent to find yourself with a less than perfectly smooth complexion.
7. It could become more evident during puberty
We know that KP is not easy on the eyes, but now we know that we can control it with treatment. Yes, there is a treatment. We know what causes those unsightly lumps; excess skin cells accumulate around individual hair follicles. Occasionally, a hair is prevented from reaching the surface and becomes embedded under the skin. During puberty, this is how follicular acne occurs. But most of the time, the condition improves with age. But it doesn’t go away completely.
Managing this condition is all about leveling out the potholes. Therapy can remove them, improve texture, remove acne-causing plugs, and improve overall appearance. A chemical peel does not have to be irritating, or cause more redness or discomfort.
Rubbing dry, bumpy skin can make it a little smoother. But it doesn’t completely eliminate KP. Nor does it eradicate the pink dots. Adding a scrub, a series of microdermabrasions, or a chemical peel can certainly kickstart your way to smoothness. Then add a soothing skin treatment to control redness and irritation, and you can start on the road to relief. Just remember that since this is a chronic condition, committing to ongoing weekly sessions of more medically useful treatments adds up quickly financially.
The treatment is continuous; if interrupted, the skin begins to reform around the hair follicles. Maintenance is the best way to maintain silky smooth skin.
Is there anything you can do that is affordable and private? Yes, there is a treatment that you can perform in the privacy of your own home.
Dermatologists recommend the following form of treatment
1. Wet skin and gently massage a microdermabrasion paste over areas of concern.
2. Rinse and dry.
3. Apply a sensitive skin treatment to areas of concern
4. Repeat every day