Kerato pilaris (KP) is the most common skin condition characterized by minute goose flesh like follicular horny bumps. This rough acne like plugs normally arises on thighs, upper arms, buttocks and cheeks on the face. They are numerous in numbers and appear bilaterally. KP is most common in children and they become more apparent in teenagers.
The skin colored red or brown bumps are prone to occur in obese individuals and those who suffer from other skin conditions such as ectopic dermatitis and ichthyosis. The lesions persist throughout the year, but they are more severe in winter when the humidity is low and the skin tends to become dry.
It usually disappears after the age of 30. Kerato pilaris is harmless condition. There is no cure for KP, however most people seek treatment because of its unsightly appearance.
What Causes Keratosis Pilaris On Face?
The precise cause of kerato pilaris is not known, but it is believed to have genetic origin. Kerato pilaris occurs when body starts producing excess of keratin.
Many people get confused between acne and kerato pilaris as both the conditions look alike. KP is often observed in obese people and those suffering from certain skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Women are likely to get more affected than men.
Kerato pilaris on face remains throughout the year, but it often gets exacerbated in winter months when the climate is cold. During winter the humidity level becomes low and the skin tends to become dry, both factors aggravate the condition.
Home Remedies To Treat Keratosis Pilaris On Face
Kerato pilaris on face is a benign condition and most people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. This skin condition is difficult to cure, however multiple therapy may have better response in terms of treatment. Applying topical exfoliants, retinoid containing creams, anti inflammatory products, laser therapy may help to soften and open the plugged hair follicles. The treatment should be continued regularly as it has tendency to recur fast.
Besides the traditional dermatological methods, certain home remedies are also found effective in treating kerato pilaris on face.
- Baking soda is useful natural exfoliant. It helps to eradicate keratinized dead skin cells from the skin pores on face. Prepare a paste of baking soda by mixing it with water. Apply the paste on face where the bumps of kerato pilaris are present. After few minutes scrub the area and rinse the face with water. Do it on regular basis to remove the bumps.
- Coconut oil contains natural fatty acids which get easily absorbed in the skin. It acts as a moisturizer and also anti inflammatory agent. The substances in coconut oil helps to sooth the skin and reduce inflammation and redness. Apply coconut oil on the affected area of face and massage it gently until the coconut oil is completely absorbed into the skin. Wash your face after few minutes. Following this simple procedure will help to diminish the bumps over a period of time. The moisturizing effect of coconut oil is also an added advantage.
- Yogurt is another time tested home remedy to remove unwanted bumps of kerato pilaris. Yogurt contains lactic acid. It acts upon the accumulated keratin in the pores and exfoliates the skin after a good scrub.
- Keep your facial skin soft and supple by applying a moisturizer regularly in winter months. Avoid washing your face with hot water as it rubs away the oil and makes the skin dry. Instead use warm water. Also avoid using harsh chemical containing soaps to clean your face.
- Eat foods containing omega 3 fatty acid. Flax seed, salmon, tuna are rich source of this substance. Omega 3 fatty acid is known to enhance the healing of kerato pilaris on face.