5 things to know about keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition. It manifests as a grainy appearance of the skin. What are the causes of the disease? What daily care? Dr. Paul Dupont, dermatologist in Toulouse, enlightens us on this subject.

Keratosis pilaris, quésaco?

Hair keratosis is characterized by an overproduction of keratin, a protein found in the epidermis which is blocked in the hair follicles. This results in small pink or red buttons and " a roughness at the level of the orifice of the hairs, on various parts of the body, the arms, the thighs, the buttocks or even on the external part of the face », Specifies Dr Paul Dupont, dermatologist in Toulouse. Rest assured, this disease is mild and not contagious.

What are the symptoms of keratosis pilaris?

The symptoms of this disease are considered unsightly but are not bothersome as such. The skin is "rough", dry and strewn with small pimples on the various areas of the body concerned. In the event of an inflammatory reaction, red patches around the hair follicles may occur on the posterior surface of the arms, thighs, buttocks or even the face. In rare cases, keratosis pilaris (atrophic keratosis) is characterized by a rarefaction of the hairs and an obstruction of the pores. Symptoms worsen with low humidity and improve with higher humidity. This grainy appearance of the skin also tends to decrease in summer with the sun. But once the skin is unbridled, the symptoms reappear.

Who is affected by keratosis pilaris?

" This disease is much more widespread than you might think "Says the dermatologist. One in four people will be affected by keratosis pilaris. " The roughness of the skin may be more or less important depending on the person. », Explains the dermatologist. Genetic hair keratosis occurs in childhood and tends to improve with age. People with dry skin are particularly susceptible to this condition.

What are the causes of keratosis pilaris?

" The origin of this disease can be genetic and hereditary "Says Dr. Paul Dupont" but it's rather rare " In this case, it is often associated with dry skin or eczema. But keratosis pilaris occurs, more generally, " in case of vitamin A, B or C deficiency "Says the dermatologist, or with other dermatoses that affect the follicle like eczema, psoriasis, or certain diseases of the hair follicle.

What are the treatments to fight against keratosis pilaris?

A keratosis pilaris linked to a hereditary ground persists throughout the year. " She doesn't heal but she relieves herself ", Specifies the dermatologist by setting up a daily beauty routine. The idea is to alleviate symptoms by using mild soap, emollients and moisturizers. " Applying emollients reduces the feeling of dry skin ", Specifies the dermatologist. Lotions that contain Urea are particularly suitable for dry skin. In all cases, be sure to use a lotion, oil or cream without perfume and without dye so as not to irritate the skin. Apply the product several times a day to the affected areas. In case of vitamin A, B or C deficiencies, multivitamin creams should be used to moisturize the skin. " I generally recommend taking a course of vitamins A and C in summer and vitamins A and D in winter "Insists Dr. Paul Dumont. " Generally, by applying all of these tips, the condition improves "

Our product selection:

This treatment has been designed for dry to very dry skin. This emollient is often used as a treatment for keratosis pilaris. This product helps remove dead skin cells and makes the skin softer and more supple. Price: 16.19 euros

This treatment is recommended by the dermatologist. It combines the beneficial action of antioxidant vitamins A, E and regenerating vitamin C. This soft and creamy cream is certified ecological and organic. Price: 16.90 euros

This cream is rich in salicylic acid helps to eliminate dead cells on the surface of the skin. This treatment gives softness and hydration to acne-prone skin (rough and with irregular relief). Price: 33 euros

This treatment restores suppleness to the skin by eliminating the thick scaly patches located at the elbows, knees, feet, hands and hair. Price: 9.36 euros

Also read on aufeminin:
– The best moisturizers: say goodbye to dry skin!
– The products you need to take care of your skin
– How to make a homemade body scrub
– What is the solution to my skin problem?

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Video by Clara Poudevigne