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Unfortunately, as it is a genetic skin disorder, keratosis pilaris does not have a simple or direct cure. When the keratotic papules form wart-like or crusty bumps, you have keratosis follicularis. Armed with the right knowledge and treatment plan, you can reduce the symptoms of keratosis pilaris.

Treating keratosis pilaris requires a long-term commitment. Your body will continue to overproduce keratin, a hard protein that has been found to plug up follicular pores, causing protrusive bumps. You might hear keratosis pilaris called 'chicken skin' due to the disorder's typical manifestation of unsightly bumps.

If you want to get rid of these bumps, there are a few easy keratosis pilaris home remedy rules to follow. You might be one of the many who are afflicted by this skin disorder and have probably tried a number of different skin care solutions. These steps are simple and inexpensive ways to get relief, without paying a visit to your doctor or dermatologist.

6 Basic Keratosis Pilaris Home Remedies

The following are home remedies you can use to treat your keratosis pilaris problem.

#1: Loofah

When you shower or bathe, use a loofah with your body wash. By exfoliating, you remove dead skin and help your body in removing toxins and follicle-clogging elements.

#2: Wash Your Face Gently

If you suffer from keratosis pilaris of the face, take extra care when washing your face as skin here is extra sensitive. Exfoliating is important, but doing so in excess will only further irritate the plugged follicles.

#3: Pat You Skin Dry, Gently

While drying yourself after a shower or bath, pat your skin dry with a towel. The reason for doing so is to retain moisture in your skin. Keeping your skin moisturized has been shown to keep keratin production at bay.

#4: Lotion

Purchase a good moisturizer and use it. Read up on different options but some suggested moisturizers include those containing retin-A or vitamin A, alphahydroxy acids or urea. Remember to slather on moisturizing lotion after bathing.

#5: Light Skin Peel

To treat already plugged follicles, try a mild peeling agent with alpha hydroxy acids that may open up the plugged follicles. These peels are readily available at your nearest drug store.

#6: Humidify Your Home

Put moisture back into the air with a humidifier. Portable or systems that attach to your furnace are equally helpful. After purchasing one, make sure to use it, especially during the dry winter months.

If, even after following these simple steps, you are still bothered by bumps and dry skin, visit your dermatologist; he or she can prescribe a number of different keratosis pilaris cream options. This might include lactic acid, corticosteroids, topical immunomodulators and retinoids. If you really are at you wit's end, discuss with your dermatologist a keratosis pilaris laser treatment. If you prefer a natural option without harsh side effects, research products with natural keratolytic properties. Try a product with salix nigra extract or amorphophallus konjac root.