Keratosis Pilaris Fast Facts

What is KP?

Keratosis Pilaris aka KP is a hereditary skin condition affecting a vast amount of people of all ages and backgrounds. There can be a lot of information out there on this common skin condition so we wanted to let you in on some quick facts about Keratosis Pilaris.

What causes Keratosis Pilaris? 

To break it down easy, KP is caused by blocked hair follicles due to the production of excess keratin. Although physically harmless, aesthetically, Keratosis Pilaris can take its toll on a variety of body parts. Many report having KP on the back of their arms, thighs, and even their face. This condition presents itself as tiny red, raised bumps on the skin’s surface. It’s also commonly referred to as “chicken skin” due to these red bumps resembling the skin of a plucked chicken.  

The clogged hair follicles are quite tiny in size, but as a collective, these bumps leave the skin rough, red, and raised. KP can also cause the skin to feel dry, resulting in heightened itchiness and irritation. Individuals who have Keratosis Pilaris are happy to report that their condition gets better in the summer and gradually increases in noticeability as the air gets colder and drier come the Fall and Winter months. It’s important to note that KP itself is harmless and painless.

Who is affected KP?

As a hereditary condition, KP affects a vast range of individuals. People of all ages and backgrounds have this skin condition. Research does show, however, KP will present itself more commonly in the earlier stages of life. If you have the genetic makeup, keratosis pilaris typically appears by the end of the toddler-stage or around adolescence and subsides by adulthood.

KP affects approximately 40% of adults & 80% of adolescents.

How does the change of seasons, temperature, or climate affect KP?

Have you ever wondered why Keratosis Pilaris worsens as the temperature cools down? Because colder weather brings low to no humidity, the dry air takes a toll on the skin, leaving it extra itchy and flaky. The Fall and Winter months can be daunting for those dealing with KP due to the lack of moisture worsening the existing skin condition.

With moisture sucked out of the skin, KP bumps become drier and more noticeable. During these dry times, it’s crucial to treat KP with extra-hydrating products to keep the irritation and any flare-ups at bay.

Do you know how to take care of your KP during the chillier months?

Learn more here! 

Common KP Flare-Up Causes 

Although KP is a hereditary condition and doesn’t have a cure, some triggers can cause a more significant flare-up. Whether it’s a factor like colder weather or the lotion you’re choosing, these choices can negatively affect the presence of your KP.

Usually, anything that induces dry skin or irritation can be a cause for a KP flare-up. Some common causes include:

• Puberty or other hormonal transitions/fluctuations (i.e., pregnancy)
• Overly-hot showers leave your skin dehydrated
• Artificial fragrance and other harsh chemicals in certain skincare products
• Diet choices (try eliminating certain reported trigger foods like gluten, dairy, and over-processed foods, Instead, add in more skin-nourishing, hydrating options)
• Rough exfoliation and/or over-exfoliating

Want to learn about go-to solutions on clearing up those

KP outbursts?

Click here!

Is Keratosis Pilaris Curable? 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Keratosis Pilaris. This skin condition comes and goes depending on varying factors; however, with the proper, consistent treatment, KP can be managed indefinitely. With a combination of a gentle exfoliation paired with a product that can hydrate and soothe, you can treat and ease the appearance of KP. By incorporating this routine daily, you can treat KP, as well as, help prevent further flare-ups and irritations.

Our go-to KP skincare combo!