Characterized by dry skin and papules, keratosis pilaris is a frequently occurring skin disorder. These skin papules lend the disease its nickname of 'goose bumps' and 'chicken skin.'

The bumps are formed due to keratin plugs in the hair follicles. Research is still being conducted to discover the root cause of the surplus keratin. Keratosis pilaris has a genetic component and dry skin might also contribute to its appearance.

There are a number of variants of keratosis pilaris. Red, inflamed bumps are categorized into keratosis pilaris rubra. Keratosis pilaris alba refers to the symptoms of dry skin and papules. Keratosis follicularis is characterized by scaly or warty-crusted papules.

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

A doctor might prescribe topical immunomodulators, corticosteroids, retinoids or urea as a keratosis pilaris remedy. Prescription strength corticosteroids can be used on affected skin if over the counter solutions are ineffective. Apply a very thin layer two times daily, or as indicated by your doctor or dermatologist. Similar to over the counter hydrocortisone ointments, do not over apply to skin as this can cause weakening and slowed collagen production. Do not apply to the skin of your face unless advised by a doctor; corticosteroids can cause unwanted lightening of skin tone. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying as this type of keratosis pilaris cream treatment can stain both skin and clothing.

Urea can also be used to cure rough skin symptoms. Urea, however, is created by the body to eliminate nitrogen waste and one might want to take a moment to consider this type of remedy before putting urea back into the body.

Retinoid creams and ointments are another form of treatment. Application of topical retinoids increases the turnover rate of follicular epithelial cells. Unless otherwise directed, apply a very small amount at bedtime. At one time, you should not apply to more than 20% of your skin as side effects are redness, extreme dryness, and/or peeling. You can find lower concentrations of topical retinoids or as an emollient cream to reduce the degree of these adverse effects. Initial application should rotate every other day and slowly be increased as the skin adjusts to concentration. Burning and pruritus are common side affects of the first four weeks and normally end with time. As retinoids are teratogenic, women planning on becoming or who already are pregnant should not use this form of treatment. Steer clear of eyes and mouth as well as harmful UV rays.

Topical immunomodulators can also be used if other treatments are not successful. This type of treatments inhibits T cells in order to reduce inflammation of skin. Application is usually instructed as twice daily. If your remedy consists of an immunomodulator and moisturizer, remember to apply the moisturizer afterwards. Be smart and take the necessary precautionary steps before exposing yourself to the sun. Side effects include burning but typically fade away within a week.

A plus with immunomodulators is that it can be used by young children, even as young as 2 years old. Unlike corticosteroids, immunomodulators do not thin the skin due to the inhibition of collagen production. Pregnant women and those with an immune deficiency should avoid delving into immunomodulators as adverse effects have not been fully studied.

Keratosis Pilaris Natural Treatment

In addition to prescription medications, one can treat keratosis skin naturally. Improve your skin by ridding and keeping your body free of toxins; try a cleansing or detox program followed by a change in diet. Make sure you are consuming enough essential fatty acids and vitamin E to ensure your body's ability to shed toxin-filled skin.

Furthermore, you can apply a biological keratosis pilaris lotion. Salix Nigra (Willow) Extract and/or Amorphophallus Konjac Root Powder are good natural alternatives to look for in a natural keratosis pilaris remedy. These ingredients work to naturally dissolve keratin, thereby eliminating the hard keratin plugs that cause the formation of papules.

A plus for seeking out a natural remedy is that you can more safely treat keratosis pilaris in children.