Natural Control of Common Body Acne - Keratosis Pilaris

Also Called Chicken Skin

A common skin condition called 'keratosis pilaris' appears as rough bumps similar to acne. Approximately 40-50% of adults and up to 80% of adolescents are affected by KP. This common skin condition is recently being referred to as 'body acne'. The most common areas of the body to have KP are the arms, legs, buttocks and sometimes the back and chest. Less frequently, the face is affected and the condition can be mistaken for acne.

There are many different body care and pharmaceutical products to relieve the symptoms of KP. These products work by chemically removing the very fine top layers of skin to allow trapped oils and hairs to escape. However, there are risks and side effects of chemical methods you may choose to avoid. The most common side effects are redness, irritation, peeling and flaking skin.

Mechanical exfoliation uses a more gentle approach without the risks and side effects of chemical exfoliants. With mechanical exfoliation, the skin is softened with natural oils and warm water. A course substance such as ground nuts, seeds, oats or baking soda is rubbed over the affected area to remove the dried skin blocking the pores. This allows the blocked pore to be opened and the blocked oils or hairs to escape.

Considering the risks associated with chemical exfoliation, you may want to try a natural remedy to control your keratosis pilaris. All you need is plain old oatmeal flakes, usually found in the big round cardboard box. Powder the oats in a blender or food processor. Store the powdered oats in the original container. You will also need some vegetable oil such as extra-virgin olive oil, sunflower oil or coconut oil and some baking soda.