Expert Tips from Dr. Lee for Managing Keratosis Pilaris at Home.
Korean beauty has taken the world by storm, and for good reason! In a country known for its beauty and skincare industry, one expert stands out for his honesty and dedication to skin health: Dr. Lee, a renowned dermatologist who has been practicing for over 10 years in the heart of Seoul’s Gangnam district. Despite his success, Dr. Lee’s goal has always been to help everyone achieve healthy, glowing skin. His YouTube channel, where he shares skincare tips, has grown to over 710,000 subscribers, and his approach to skincare is trusted worldwide.
Dr. Lee’s mission is simple: to provide people with safe and effective skincare tips that they can incorporate into their routines at home. Unlike many in the beauty industry who prioritize profits, Dr. Lee is committed to sharing honest, professional advice—without unnecessary treatments. He believes that everyone deserves healthy skin, no matter where they are in the world.
In this blog post, Dr. Lee will walk you through two essential homecare tips for dealing with keratosis pilaris (often referred to as chicken skin), a condition that many people struggle with. Whether you’re dealing with this issue yourself or want to learn how to prevent it, these tips can help you maintain smooth, healthy skin.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThTcc3EJsIc
What is Keratosis Pilaris and Why Does It Happen?
Keratosis pilaris is a common condition that causes small, rough bumps to appear on the skin, often on the arms, thighs, and sometimes on the face. It is commonly referred to as “chicken skin” because of the way it looks. The condition occurs when keratin, a protein in the skin, builds up around hair follicles, forming small, hard bumps. Although it can be frustrating, it’s important to note that keratosis pilaris is not caused by poor skincare habits—it’s primarily genetic. If your parents have it, there’s a chance you might have it too. While it may cause some discomfort or self-consciousness, it’s not harmful.
This condition can become more noticeable during colder months when the skin is dry. While it’s not dangerous, it can certainly be bothersome for those who experience it. However, don’t worry—keratosis pilaris often improves with age, and there are simple steps you can take to manage it.
2 Homecare Tips to Help Manage Keratosis Pilaris
1. Moisturizing is Key:
The most important aspect of managing keratosis pilaris is ensuring your skin stays well-moisturized. Dry skin can exacerbate the condition, causing the keratin buildup to worsen. Dr. Lee recommends using a body lotion with a rich moisturizing formula. If you find that a regular lotion isn’t enough, mix in a small amount of Vaseline or petroleum jelly for extra hydration.
By keeping the skin hydrated, you can prevent further keratin buildup and help the existing keratin flakes naturally shed. Make sure to apply your moisturizer right after a shower, when your skin is still damp, to lock in moisture. Consistent hydration is the foundation of treating keratosis pilaris at home.
2. Use a Skin Softening Cream:
Another effective way to manage keratosis pilaris is by using a skin-softening cream. These creams contain ingredients that help break down the excess keratin and promote smoother skin. Dr. Lee suggests looking for products that contain urea or salicylic acid, which help to gently exfoliate the skin.
A good skin softener can help loosen the trapped keratin, allowing it to shed more easily. While there are many different brands available, Dr. Lee recommends looking for products that are specifically formulated to treat keratosis pilaris, which are often available at drugstores or through professional skincare lines.
What to Avoid: Habits that Can Worsen Keratosis Pilaris
To improve keratosis pilaris, it’s important to avoid certain habits that can worsen the condition. Hot showers and harsh scrubbing can dry out the skin, leading to more keratin buildup. Dr. Lee advises taking lukewarm showers instead of hot ones and applying a moisturizing body lotion immediately after drying off. If you enjoy using scrubs, be cautious not to scrub too aggressively, as it can cause irritation and dry out the skin further.
Additionally, it’s important to be consistent with your moisturizing routine. Many people neglect body lotion or skip it when they’re in a rush, but regular use is key to keeping the skin hydrated and preventing the condition from worsening.
When Homecare Isn’t Enough: Seeking Professional Help
If you find that homecare methods aren’t enough to reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris, you may want to consider seeing a dermatologist. Dr. Lee recommends professional treatments like chemical peels, which can help remove the excess keratin and smooth out the skin. In some cases, prescription-strength topical treatments containing retinoids can also help speed up the shedding process.
However, Dr. Lee emphasizes that these treatments should be approached with caution. Avoid harsh procedures, such as laser treatments or aggressive exfoliation, which can potentially worsen the condition or cause further irritation.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with keratosis pilaris can be frustrating, but it’s important to remember that this condition is not a reflection of your skin’s health. It’s often genetic and tends to improve with age. By focusing on proper hydration and using skin-softening creams, you can manage keratosis pilaris effectively at home.
If you or someone you know struggles with keratosis pilaris, share this article to spread awareness about effective and safe ways to manage it. Dr. Lee’s tips, rooted in his years of experience as a dermatologist, can help you maintain healthy, smooth skin.
By following these two simple homecare tips and practicing good skincare habits, you can reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris and feel more confident in your skin. Stay positive and patient, as it’s a condition that improves over time, especially with proper care.