Keratosis Pilaris: Understanding and Treating “Flesh Buttons” Effectively

Keratosis pilaris, often called “chicken skin,” affects many people, causing small, rough bumps on the skin. Let’s explore this skin condition, practical tips, and some solutions to reduce the symptoms and improve the appearance of your skin.

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is a benign skin disorder characterized by the excess production of keratin, a protein that protects the skin from harmful substances and infections. The excess keratin causes hair follicles to become clogged, forming small red or white bumps, often on the arms, thighs, buttocks, calves, or sometimes the face.

Causes of Keratosis Pilaris

This condition is mainly genetic and is often associated with other dry skin conditions such as eczema. It is particularly common in adolescents but may persist into adulthood or resolve over time.

Symptoms on affected areas

Symptoms of this condition include rough, bumpy skin, areas of small red or white bumps that can sometimes be tender or itchy, especially when the skin is dry.

How to manage keratosis pilaris on a daily basis?
Recommended care and treatments

To manage keratosis pilaris, hydration is essential. Favor oily and superfatted soaps. Moisturize your skin daily to limit discomfort, itching and signs of skin dryness.

Gentle exfoliation

Exfoliation can be beneficial, but it should be gentle to avoid further irritating the skin.

What products for my daily hygiene?

Choose a soap that respects the specific needs of your skin. The oat milk and chamomile soap is suitable for sensitive skin, thanks to the soothing properties of oats, known to soothe eczema in babies. You can also opt for the Pavot exfoliating superfatted soap. Superfatted at 6%, without essential oils, it moisturizes and exfoliates gently.

Tips for everyday life

Moisturize your skin regularly, especially after showering.
Avoid hot, long baths which can dry out your skin.
Wear loose clothing to minimize friction which can worsen symptoms.

Natural Treatments and Home Remedies
Opt for gentle solutions

Natural treatments can also play a role in managing keratosis pilaris. Natural oils like coconut or monoi oil can help moisturize and soothe the skin. Some people find that regular application of aloe vera or shea butter helps soften the skin and reduce roughness.

Our whipped Face & Body Balm contains organic Shea butter, Monoi oil macerate, organic Jojoba oil, and Coconut oil. Its whipped texture protects, nourishes, soothes, and softens your skin. Let a small amount melt in the palm of your hand then gently massage over the entire area in circular movements.

There are also grandmother's remedies, which have made their way into the community of people suffering from keratosis pilaris. Remember, we revealed some of them in a dedicated article.

Medical Perspectives on Keratosis Pilaris
When to consult a dermatologist?

Although keratosis pilaris is often considered a cosmetic condition rather than a medical emergency, consulting a dermatologist may be helpful if symptoms worsen or if standard treatments don't work. A specialist may recommend more advanced treatments such as prescription creams or light therapies.

Living with Keratosis Pilaris

Living with it can be frustrating, but with the right routine, many people find ways to effectively manage their condition and improve the appearance of their skin. By adopting a proper skincare routine and consulting a healthcare professional when needed, you can significantly alleviate its symptoms.

To go further, our bibliography
Lemoine, P., & Girard, M. (2017). "Keratosis pilaris: clinical features and treatment options." Journal of Cosmetology and Dermatology, 32(4), 215-220.
The authors provide an overview of the clinical features of keratosis pilaris and available treatment options, detailing the mechanisms of action of topical therapies.
Renard, E., & Chaussain, C. (2019). "Treatment of keratosis pilaris: medical and cosmetic options." Cahiers de Dermatologie, 54(5), 289-297.
This article presents a review of medical and cosmetic treatment options for keratosis pilaris, discussing effectiveness and potential side effects.
Fanny Ickx, Axel De Greef (2024). "Atopic dermatitis from pathogenesis to treatments" Medi-Sphere 752. The author highlights the emergence of new systemic immunomodulatory treatments for AD.