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Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a skin condition in which dead skin cells clog the pores of your skin, causing dry patches or bumps according to The American Academy of Dermatology. The bumps usually show up on the back of the upper arms or on the upper thighs. These bumps are not contagious, but are simply a nuisance for some as they can be unsightly, preventing you from wearing certain clothing or causing you to try to cover it up. For some, this condition can clear up and go away, but for others, it can flare up during a dry season, such as winter. See below for ways to help treat this condition at home.

Exfoliate

To help remove the dead skin cells, you can exfoliate your skin using a loofah. Gently massage your skin with the loofah in the shower/bath daily. You can also use a microdermabrasion kit at home to gently exfoliate skin. These kits can be found at most local big box stores or at beauty stores. Use oatmeal with sugar and water to create a paste, which can help exfoliate your skin as well. Rub on the affected area for 15 minutes and then rinse it off.

Apply Body Wash

There are over-the-counter body washes used to treat body acne that can help with your Keratosis Pilaris as well. Look for washes that contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These washes may be a little pricier than most other washes, but they will help. You can find these types of body washes at your local pharmacy or big box stores.

Moisturize

Apply moisturizer or cream daily, immediately (within 5 minutes) after getting out of the shower while your skin is still moist. Use a thick moisturizer that contains lactic acid, vitamin E or oatmeal, and that is free of oils. Oily moisturizers can clog your pores, which can worsen your condition. If need be, apply the moisturizer several times per day, especially during cold, dry months.

If your skin condition doesn't clear up at all or worsens, you should contact your dermatologist. A dermatologist may be able to prescribe a skin care product that is stronger than what you can get over the counter. Keratosis Pilaris cannot be cured, but it can be treated. You just need to stick with a daily exfoliating and moisturizing routine, which will help clear up your skin and can also help prevent flare-ups during dry seasons.

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