What is Keratosis Pilaris

It’s that time of the year when most of us start to resemble lizard people. On a side-note, if you are not one of the lizard people, we envy you. Dry, itchy, bumpy, flaky skin can be super annoying, not to mention uncomfortable. Chances are if you suffer from any type of skin condition, you will probably suffer a flare up in winter. One such skin condition? Keratosis Pilaris.

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris happens when a build up of keratin forms a plug and blocks a hair follicle. Keratosis Pilaris looks like tiny raised flesh coloured bumps and usually affects upper arms, thighs and bottoms. This area of your body will be drier. The condition usually worsens when the seasons change (and especially in winter time). Luckily Keratosis Pilaris doesn’t hurt. Yes, it might look (and feel) unpleasant and it can’t be prevented, but there are certain steps you can take to minimise the appearance of rough, bumpy skin.

How to treat Keratosis Pilaris

It goes without saying, but we’ll say it nonetheless. Don’t scratch your skin. It will only make it worse.

In winter we do love a nice, hot bath. But if you suffer from Keratosis Pilaris try to opt for warm, rather than hot showers. Hot bath will strip your skin of oils and make it even drier. Likewise while we love a nice shower gel, try to steer clear from harsh soaps and bath products. Some exfoliation is good, but do not use harsh body scrubs as these will only irritate the skin further.

It can be a pain to apply a moisturizing body lotion after every shower. But it is essential so moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Apply your body lotion on still damp skin. This will trap the moisture to the skin.

Ishtar offers 2 body products that can help keep your Keratosis Pilaris under control.

Ultralase 8% PHA Body Lotion contains 8% Gluconic acid and has a pH of 3.5. It gently, but effectively removes the build up of dead skin cells to improve the appearance of rough, bumpy skin. The formula also includes natural moisturizing factors and Hyaluronic acid to intensely hydrate the skin, while Chamomile and Ginseng botanical extracts soften and soothe.

Ultralase 8% PHA Body Lotion absorbs fast and has a non-greasy after feel. It is fragrance- and paraben-free, vegan and not tested on animals. Ultralase 8% PHA Body Lotion can be used by all skin types. However do no use it on broken skin or on active eczema.

Ultralase 12.5% Mandelic Acid Body gel contains 12.5% Mandelic acid and has a pH of 3.5. With Beta-Glucan to enhance skin repair, this is a concentrated formula that is designed to treat body acne, hyperpigmentation and Keratosis Pilaris.

In order to treat Keratosis Pilaris we recommend that you use Ultralase 12.5% Mandelic Acid Body gel once or twice per week on the affected area only. Also it should not be used on broken skin or on active eczema.

How do you deal with Keratosis Pilaris?

 

Roberta Striga