Keratosis Pilaris is a condition that affects approximately 80% of adolescents and 40% of adults. Because this issue is so pervasive, many people are searching for answers as to what causes keratosis pilaris, what it is, and how keratosis pilaris can be treated. But how can you be certain that the information you find is correct? At KP Elements, we want to provide you with the best understanding of this condition. That’s why we are debunking 5 common myths about Keratosis Pilaris.
Myth: Eating gluten free can cure KP
Some people claim to have cleared their keratosis pilaris by eliminating gluten from their diet. In reality, going gluten free will have limited impact on the keratin build up in your hair follicles. Keratosis Pilaris, which is caused by an overproduction of a protein called keratin, is not likely affected (and therefore not cured) by your diet.
Myth: You just need to exfoliate more
When you see tiny bumps on your arms or legs, it makes sense to want to exfoliate them away. Unfortunately, excess rubbing of your skin could be doing more harm than good. KP bumps cannot be scrubbed off, but some light exfoliation can be helpful. Try getting rid of that loofa and replacing it with a shower body scrub.
Myth: Any lotion will help reduce the bumps
While dry skin can exacerbate keratosis pilaris bumps, simply hydrating the skin may not be enough to fully eliminate your symptoms. A lotion with chemical exfoliants can help to gently exfoliate those bumps while hydrating your skin.
Myth: They’re just pimples, so you can treat them with acne medication
It is important to understand that Keratosis Pilaris is not the same as acne, psoriasis, or eczema. Keratosis Pilaris is its own condition. Because of that, it cannot be treated in the same manner as other skin conditions. Acne medications are intended to be drying, which can cause your KP bumps to get even worse.
Myth: There are no treatment options
While Keratosis Pilaris does not have a cure, there are things you can do to reduce the appearance of those tiny bumps! Using a Keratosis Pilaris treatment regimen like KP Elements is the most effective way to manage your KP. When using a body scrub in the shower and an exfoliating skin cream twice daily, you can see significant improvement in as little as 3 weeks!
