Keratosis Pilaris - Editor's Choice

Discover Keratosis Pilaris treatment using inexpensive natural cures like apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, goat’s milk, coconut milk and borage oil. Although this can be been a frustrating condition to have and to cure, keratosis pilaris can be cured naturally.  Another bit of good news about keratosis pilaris is that it is usually gone before someone reaches the age of 30.

What Is Keratosis Pilaris?

A fairly common condition, keratosis pilaris affects the skin, causing rough patches and small, acne-like bumps, typically on the arms, thighs, cheeks and buttocks. Unlike typical acne, however, keratosis pilaris bumps are usually white and rarely red. The condition generally does not itch or hurt but can be difficult to treat. Inflammation, redness and scarring may occur.

Keratosis pilaris can occur at any age, yet it is most common in young children and typically disappears after age 30. This condition tends to appear worse  in the winter. Because keratosis pilaris may resemble goose or chicken flesh, it sometimes goes by the unfortunate name of "chicken skin".

What Causes Keratosis Pelasis?

Keratosis Pelasis is caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that forms to protect the skin from infection and foreign substances. However, when too much keratin develops, a scaly plug forms that blocks the opening of the hair follicle. As several plugs form, rough, bumpy skin is often the result. The exact reason for the buildup of keratin is unknown, but it may be linked to genetic disease, another skin condition or dry skin.

Natural Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris

While most cases of keratosis pilaris resolve naturally, treatment can shorten the duration of the condition. Keratosis pilaris treatment often requires the application of topical treatments including apple cider vinegar amd coconut oil. Fish oil and borage oil are other useful home remedies. Dietary changes such as avoiding dairy and drinking raw green juices may also be tried.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Virgin Coconut Oil

When used as topical treatments, ACV and coconut oil have been successful in treating keratosis pilaris.

Dietary Changes

Some feel that keratosis pilaris reflects an intolerance for animal proteins and casein, found in dairy products.  It will require trial-and-error testing to determine which food(s) are causing the problem. Juicing raw, organic, green leafy vegetables is recommended.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fish oil supplements have been a successful cure.  Other sources of omega-3 fatty acids are sprouted chia and flax seeds and black cumin seeds and oils.  Borage is very good for the skin in general; it has omega-6 fatty acids and is included with fish oil in some supplements.

Additional treatment options include MSM, DMSO and aspirin applied to the site of the condition. Continue reading below for more many detailed tips from Earth Clinic readers.