The first step in managing Strawberry Skin (Keratosis Pilaris) is through gentle exfoliation.
It can be satisfying to use a physical scrub and vigorously rub your skin.After all, how can dead skin and build-up not be gone after that?
However, with aggressive scrubbing, you could cause an inflammatory reaction which will worsen the condition. You may notice increased redness or hyperpigmentation.
Exfoliate To Improve Strawberry Skin (KP)
There are many exfoliants to choose from; sugar scrubs, chemical acids, loofahs, and brushes. Yet many experts recommend using chemical acids since they are not as abrasive to the skin compared to other methods.
Sugar Scrubs– The best way to use sugar scrubs for KP is by gently rubbing the mixture over the skin without pressing intensely into the skin. Perform 2 to 3 times a week with a scrub containing ingredients to combat KP symptoms.
Chemical Acids– The name sounds harsh, but acids such as salicylic acid exfoliate on a cellular level, promoting new skin cells to form. It may feel like you are applying nothing more than a body wash since it is a cream or liquid base without visible exfoliants.
Loofahs & Brushes– When using these types of scrubs, you should be careful of applying bacteria to your skin. Loofahs, in particular, have been known to store bacteria after multiple uses.
Reduce Water Temperature
Hot temperatures can be alleviating at the moment, yet the aftermath is dryness and irritation. Hot water can damage and weaken the skin barrier, altering its natural oil balance and function.
In the winter months, our skin tends to become dryer. It is crucial to avoid hot showers during that time.
Many skin conditions, such as keratosis pilaris, dermatitis, acne, and eczema, can be improved by changing the water temperature to a lukewarm setting.
Showering in hot water can be addictive since it is known to relieve muscle aches and tension. If you can’t entirely give up hot showers for the sake of your skin’s health and improvement, consider these tips.
- Set a timer for your hot showers for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Shower or bathe in hot water only once or twice out of the week.
- Remind yourself of how healthy your skin will become, avoiding hot showers.
Moisturize Strawberry Skin (KP)
Some people wonder if Keratosis Pilaris is itchy, some sufferers have experienced pruritus due to dry and irritated skin. Moisturizing should alleviate the symptoms.
If pruritus does not go away, consult with a dermatologist for alternative methods and diagnosis. However, a change in the type of moisturizer used may prove to be effective.
Here are a few keywords to look for when shopping for an effective KP moisturizer.
*Non-comedogenic *Sensitive Skin *Hyaluronic Acid *Moisturizing *Bumpy Skin *Niacinamide *Salicylic Acid.
Brighten Hyperpigmentation
The inflammation and roughness have improved, yet you still have the appearance of chicken skin?
Melanin pigment is sent to keratinocytes to aid in inflammation reduction. Dark spots called hyperpigmentation form in the process.
Hyperpigmentation is common in darker skin tones, but anyone can be affected by it. There is no guarantee that you can entirely remove the spots.
However, you can make them less noticeable. To name a few, products that can brighten dark spots are Niacinamide, Licorice Root, and Azelaic Acid.
If you have hyperpigmentation, Urban Skin Rx has a line of products to lighten, exfoliate, and improve your skin’s appearance.
*This is an affiliate link, which means we may earn a small fee from your purchase at no added cost to you.
Genetic Factors That Cause Strawberry Skin (KP)
Keratosis Pilaris is not only influenced by external factors but internal ones as well. According to research, certain people are predisposed to Keratosis Pilaris.
The absence of sebum glands causes the epithelial barrier to break down. As a result, the hair follicle’s growth pattern is disrupted, resulting in ingrown hairs that cause skin inflammation. Another type of abnormality seen in some KP patients is that of Filaggrin and Tight Junctions.
Filaggrin is a protein located in the skin’s epidermis that multiplies to form a structure with a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) that supports Tight Junction molecules. Tight Junctions are connected protein membranes that create a barrier and distribute substances in a path surrounding epithelial cells.
An abnormality in either Filaggrin or TJ junctions can lead to reactions that weaken the other, making the stratum corneum vulnerable to pathogens. The immune system responds to these pathogens by releasing cytokines that can be mediators for Keratosis Pilaris and Dermatitis.
*A person with a Filaggrin deficiency is more at risk for trans-epidermal water loss.*
Despite the genetic predispositions mentioned, the methods above can alleviate and improve the symptoms of Strawberry Skin. Visit Keratosis Pilaris Treatment and Prevention for more tips.
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