Keratosis pilaris is a frustrating skin condition to work with. That it is distressingly common isn’t much consolation to those working to rid their arms, legs, buttocks and face of the hard white bumps that occur most often in dry, red patches. Keratosis pilaris is caused by an overabundance of keratin, a natural protein produced by the body to offer your skin protection.

The excess amount of keratin form plugs over hair follicles in a cluster on your skin and create the unsightly splotches of raised hard spots. The redness and dry skin that accompanies the raised spots makes it immediately noticeable in short-sleeve shirts or shorts. It is especially challenging to rid yourself of keratosis pilaris because it is caused by a hard protein designed to withstand infection and elemental attack. To relieve the symptoms of keratosis pilaris, you must first soften the keratin forming the plugs before exfoliating and removing it over time.

Keratosis Pilaris Creams

The most effective creams for treating keratosis pilaris achieve two things:

Dry skin tends to worsen the symptoms of keratosis pilaris and increase the affected area. Dry skin cells that build up on the skin’s surface can contribute to the problem as well. To soften the skin, especially the skin surrounding the hard protein plugs, rich moisture is needed. While any lotion will help to soften skin, the best creams are long-lasting and thick. Rub the cream into the area and you’ll be working to moisturize the area over the long-term while preventing additional dryness.

It is imperative that the lotion be noncomedogenic, one that does not clog the pores. Finding a heavy cream that can deliver a terrific amount of moisture without clogging the pores can be challenging, but looking for creams designed exclusively for skin conditions such as keratosis pilaris should simplify the search.

In addition to powerful moisture, keratosis pilaris creams have an exfoliating agent. Most commonly this is a small, but effective amount of acid. Lotions that contain 2% lactic acid or salicylic acid will help to break down the keratin plugs over time. The soft supple skin that surrounds the plug makes it easier for the exfoliating agents to work on the build up of keratin. The agents work to ensure there is no continuing build-up of keratin or dead skin cells on the body as well to prevent future outbreaks.

Finding Keratosis Pilaris Creams

It takes time and experimentation to find the right combination of treatments, specifically including body wash and creams. You’ll want to look for body washes designed to be moisturizing and acne fighting. As many acne washes are intensely drying, this can be a tricky. But moisture rich acne-fighting washes will ensure the soap won’t clog the pores further.

Keratosis pilaris creams vary in their make-up and therefore have different levels of effectiveness for different individuals. Look for a cream rich in moisture with a high amount of exfoliating properties. Use the washes and lotions for a time and watch to see how the area is affected by the treatment. An excellent keratosis pilaris cream should make the bumps become softer and less noticeable over time.