Keratosis pilaris (dry skin): information and solutions

Keratosis pilaris (also known as keratosis follicularis, lichen pilaris and follicular keratosis) is a harmless, non-contagious dermatosis characterised by the presence of small, rough bumps on the skin (papules), particularly on the face, buttocks, thighs and back of the arms. But it can also affect the face, particularly in children. Small pimples appear, and the skin becomes rough and uneven, giving it a "chicken-skin" appearance. It is caused by severe skin dryness and an abnormal build-up of keratin in the hair follicles. The follicles become clogged with horny plugs, giving the skin an irregular appearance.

Keratosis pilaris affects almost 25% of French people, and is one of the most common skin diseases. It affects children, teenagers and young adults in particular, and women more often than men. From the age of 30, it diminishes. It may intensify with the seasons, with more papules in winter and fewer in summer.

The diagnosis of keratosis pilaris is purely clinical and based on observation of the lesions.

As we have seen, keratosis pilaris is caused by an accumulation of keratin. Keratin is the protein that gives the body's tissues their stability, and is the basic building block of our hair and nails. In keratosis pilaris, excess keratin accumulates in the hair follicles and clogs them. The skin thickens, and pimples become hard plugs.

The exact cause of keratosis pilaris remains unknown, but it seems that this skin disorder is hereditary and genetic, as it is frequently found within the same family. In fact, 30-50% of patients have a family history. Dry skin is also more prone to this condition, as are people with atopic dermatitis or ichytosis. Vitamin deficiencies (particularly C and A) may also be the cause.

In most cases, keratosis pilaris appears in childhood, may intensify in adolescence and persist into adulthood, with phases when it recedes and then returns. It is generally not painful, but it can be a source of stress and undermine self-esteem, as it is often considered unsightly by sufferers. Finally, it can sometimes cause discomfort or itching.

Symptoms of keratosis pilaris include:

• Small, rough pimples, flesh-coloured on fair skin and brown on black skin. These papules may be slightly raised and sometimes slightly red.

• Ingrown hairs or hairs that do not grow normally and appear to be trapped under the skin.

• A feeling of roughness or dryness of the skin.

• Slight itching or irritation of the skin.

Keratosis pilaris can be more visible and irritating during winter, when the skin is drier due to lower humidity. However, symptoms can vary from person to person and be more or less pronounced depending on the severity of the condition.

Unfortunately, there is no proven method for completely banishing keratosis pilaris, as it can be linked to genetic factors. However, certain preventive measures can help to prevent or reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris:

• Moisturise your skin regularly: use an unscented moisturiser after showering to reduce dryness and the appearance of papules.

• Exfoliate your skin: use a gentle exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells and soften the epidermis, while helping to unclog corneal plugs.

• Avoid skin irritants: cut out overly aggressive cleansers and products with synthetic ingredients that can irritate the skin.

• Avoid tight-fitting clothes: tight-fitting clothes can worsen the appearance of keratosis pilaris by rubbing against the skin and encouraging irritation.

• Choose natural cosmetics with simple, short, fragrance-free formulas.

• Eat a balanced diet: a healthy, varied diet can help maintain healthy skin and reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris.

Keratosis pilaris is a common dermatological condition that is benign, but it can psychologically impact those who suffer from it. It's non-contagious and takes the form of small light red or brown spots on the arms, thighs, face and buttocks. These are clogged hair follicles that give the skin an irregular appearance. Urea, salicylic acid, moisturisers, and so forth, there are various natural solutions in existence to reduce keratosis pilaris. We tell you our advice and the most effective active ingredients for relieving keratosis pilaris naturally.

The number one natural solution to keratosis pilaris is to keep the skin well hydrated. Always opt for skin care products with natural ingredients, rich in carrier oils and free from irritating or controversial ingredients.

Our All-In-One Cream is ideal for moisturising and softening skin prone to keratosis pilaris. It can be used on the body as well as the face, and is suitable for the whole family. Extremely gentle, it combines moisturising aloe vera, soothing calendula, protective cocoa butter and a restorative plant extract, Bisabolol. Our All-In-One Cream can be used pure, the perfect solution for children, or personalised with active ingredients (urea, salicylic acid) for adult skin.

All-purpose cream

It can be used as a neutral base or as a daily hair care product for all of your hair, right down to the ends. Use as is or customise!

There are multiple natural solutions to alleviate this 'chicken skin' appearance. As well as daily moisturising, regular exfoliation will unclog pores and hair follicles while softening skin texture. Targeted skin care products containing keratolytic ingredients such as salicylic acid and urea can improve the appearance of the skin. Carrier oils rich in vitamin E are also known to have a positive effect on keratosis pilaris. Finally, applypink clay masks regularly to the face or body areas prone to keratosis.

60 capsules

Salicylic acid

Purifying and keratolytic, it stimulates skin renewal, unclogs pores, combats ingrown hairs and reduces roughness.

Find out more: salicylic acid

Urea

Widely used in dermatological products, this active ingredient has moisturising and keratolytic effects. It smoothes out irregularities, exfoliates and promotes the renewal of corneocytes (cells in the stratum corneum).

Find out more: urea

Allantoin

Restorative, keratolytic and softening, allantoin helps maintain good skin hydration. Ideal for sensitive skin or skin prone to blemishes.

Discover: allantoin

Organic cranberry carrier oil

Highly moisturising and emollient, it restores and regenerates dry skin, soothes and softens damaged skin.

Discover: Organic cranberry carrier oil

Pink clay

Cleansing, purifying and restorative, it gently purifies the skin without damaging the skin barrier.

Discover: pink clay

Organic aloe vera gel

Ideal for fragile skin, this gel will hydrate and purify the skin, while encouraging cell regeneration. It can be used pure or personalised with active ingredients.

Discover: organic aloe vera gel

10% Déc & AHA Acid Face Serum Concentrate

This exfoliating, regenerating treatment for adult skin provides targeted action and a powerful peeling and keratolytic effect without irritating the skin.

This peeling serum should only be used in the evening. Use daily sun protection and avoid exposure to the sun for up to a week after the last application.

Discover: 10% Déc & AHA Acid Face Serum Concentrate

To reduce keratosis pilaris, choose moisturising, natural skin care products with simple, non-irritating formulas. Choose your skincare products and recipes according to your skin type. If you have oily skin, opt for light, penetrating gels. Go for creams and lotions if you have dry or dehydrated skin. Don't forget to cleanse and remove your make-up every evening to encourage cell renewal and eliminate impurities. Once a week, use a scrub followed by a clay mask to remove impurities.