ou have random bumps on the skin of your arms and other parts of your body over the past few months. You initially thought they were acne, but these bumps are not budging at all. You may be suffering from Keratosis Pilaris, which is commonly referred to as chicken skin. It is mostly inherited, and there is no sure shot cure for treating this condition (1).
However, using proper methods can reduce its severity. Would you like to know more? Keep reading.
What Is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition that occurs when the keratin component of the skin forms hard plugs in your hair follicles. This chicken skin-like appearance does not lead to any serious health complications, but it can be annoying and can affect your confidence. It is usually seen in people with very dry skin or eczema. Sometimes, especially in the winter months, it can cause itching. However, it is not contagious (2).
How To Get Rid Of Keratosis Pilaris?
While chicken skin or keratosis pilaris cannot be eliminated altogether, you can reduce the severity and make the red marks fade away with the right methods. You will need to opt for both internal and external solutions.
1. Coconut Oil For Keratosis Pilaris
You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
What You Have To Do
- Warm the oil slightly and mix the sugar in it.
- Massage this on the affected areas for two to three minutes.
- Rinse with water.
How Often You Need To Do This
Do this every day.
Why This Works
Coconut oil acts as an excellent keratosis pilaris home remedy, and it is good not only for your hair but for your skin as well (3). Its unique fatty acids soften the skin and provide nourishment from within. The strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of coconut oil help heal skin inflammation over time (4).
2. Essential Oils For Keratosis Pilaris
You Will Need
- 2-3 drops lemon essential oil
- 2-3 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
What You Have To Do
- Mix all the oils and massage on the skin for a few minutes.
- Let it air dry.
How Often You Need To Do This
Repeat this twice a day.
Why This Works
Lemon oil contains antioxidants that will keep your skin healthy (5). It also has antifungal properties that will keep the skin infection-free (6). Lavender oil aids the lemon oil in keeping the skin healthy with its antibacterial properties (7). It also soothes the skin and the mind (8).
3. Diet To Help Keratosis Pilaris
To combat keratosis pilaris and its symptoms, merely applying products and extracts externally is not enough. You also need to eat the right kind of foods. This will offer your body the required nutrients and antioxidants to battle skin conditions like Keratosis Pilaris better. Include these in your diet to improve skin health:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables. Have at least five servings in a day.
- Vitamin A and E-rich foods such as mangoes, pumpkins, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, etc.
- Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean meat.
4. Cod Liver Oil For Keratosis Pilaris
Image: Shutterstock
You Will Need
Cod liver oil capsules
What You Have To Do
Take two capsules in a day.
How Often You Need To Do This
Continue taking the liver oil capsules for a few weeks to heal the keratosis pilaris.
Why This Works
Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory and healing properties (9). Cod liver oil is often recommended for a healthy body and skin.
5. Glycolic Acid For Keratosis Pilaris
Image: Shutterstock
You Will Need
Cream or lotion containing glycolic acid
What You Have To Do
- Apply this on the affected area and massage for a few minutes.
- Rinse with water.
How Often You Need To Do This
Do this twice a day till the keratosis pilaris is gone.
Why This Works
Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid. It has skin exfoliating properties. It will remove the dead skin cell build-up and exfoliate the accumulated keratin (10). It also reduces the skin inflammation (11).
