Keratosis pilaris is a harmless skin condition which is quite common. It results from an excess buildup of keratin plugging the hair follicles. This can cause tiny, hard bumps that make your skin feel almost like sandpaper. The bumps usually appear on your buttocks, thighs, and upper arms and are sometimes accompanied by redness and swelling. Keratosis pilaris may worsen during puberty, winters, and pregnancy and may itch a little sometimes. It cannot be cured completely, but it can be reduced to a great extent by using home remedies. Here are some remedies for keratosis pilaris you can use at home for softer and smoother skin.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer for your skin as its unique fatty acids easily absorbed by our skin. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which will help reduce the redness and inflammation of your skin. Apply coconut oil generously on your skin an hour before bathing. You can also mix equal parts of coconut oil and apple cider vinegar, add a teaspoon of honey, apply it on the affected area, leave it until it dries, and wipe it off with a moist towel. You can repeat this procedure every day for best results.
2. Yogurt
Applying some yogurt on the affected areas will help make your skin feel smoother. Yogurt contains lactic acid that prevents the excess deposition of keratin in the hair follicles. It also moisturizes your skin and soothes irritation. Apply 3 to 4 tablespoons of yogurt on the affected area, let it dry, then wash it off with water. You can repeat the procedure as many times as you like.
3. Baking Soda
You can use baking soda as an exfoliant. Since it is gritty in nature, rubbing it on your skin will get rid of dead skin cells and other impurities that block your pores, which will reduce the appearance of bumps on your skin. Make a paste using baking soda and water, gently scrub the affected area for 5 minutes, and rinse it off with water. You can repeat the procedure regularly for best results.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps reduce the swelling of your skin because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It also has antibacterial properties that prevent infections and heals keratosis pilaris heal quickly. Dab apple cider vinegar on the affected areas using a cotton ball and allow it to dry on your skin. You can dilute apple cider vinegar with 1 part water if your skin is too sensitive. Repeat the procedure 2 to 3 times a day.
5. Oatmeal Bath
Soaking in an oatmeal bath is a relaxing way to minimize the appearance of keratosis pilaris on your skin. Oatmeal exfoliates dead skin cells and impurities from your skin while moisturizing it at the same time. Add a handful of oats to lukewarm water in a tub, soak in it for 20 to 30 minutes, and wipe dry using a towel. Repeat the procedure 2 to 3 times a day.
6. Olive Oil
Olive oil moisturizes your skin without clogging your pores. It also contains vitamin E, which softens the bumps and encourages skin repair. You can just massage it on to the affected areas 2 times a day, or you can use it as a scrub by mixing it with sugar 2 to 3 times a week.
As you try these home remedies, try and expose yourself to sunlight for 15 to 20 minutes each day as vitamin D deficiency can cause dryness, which leads to keratosis pilaris. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water each day and if you stay in a dry area, use a humidifier in your room when you sleep. Moisturization is key if you want to prevent or treat keratosis pilaris.
