Hello,

I am very depressed about my skin. Tonight is the first time I could match a name to my skin problems, thanks to this site. I could not afford to spend my extra money on a dermatologist. I am 24 fem who has lived with kp since I can remember along with my mother and sister. My kp is mostly on my outer upper arms and the tops of my forearms and very mild kp on thighs and butt. In the five years I have been with my, just recently, husband I have never allowed him to really touch or see most of my arms. I wear no shorter than 3/4 length sleeves even in the summer. So, all summer long I suffer in the heat watching girls with perfect skin run around in tank tops. Kp has effected so many aspects of my life, especially the intimate and self esteem aspects. I am glad to know what my skin problem actually is finally. But I am sad to know now there is no cure. Any helpful advise would be very much appreciated since I am so knew to this.

One thing I'm hearing that helps a lot is drinking carrot juice, people who use it say that they notice immidiate results. Personally, I'm going to try forcing myself on a strict diet of un-cooked fruits and vegetables, I'm hoping that'll do something for me. The thing about ketratosis pilaris is that it seems to effect everyone differently, you just have to experiment with different treatments. There are many that you can find on this website, just try one you think sounds good.

Hey Jem 100805. This is a long term condition that we all need to come up with a way to cope and continue with our lives. I agree that it is difficult to watch others wear tank tops and what not. Its a horrible feeling and I agree with you and feel for you as so many other people do on this forum. Understanding is crucial and a higher level of thinking will help you overcome the exterior appearance of you. One thing that I have learned is that this condition is very inconsistent in its behavior and that one solution that works for someone else may not work for you. I know basics that work for everyone. Don't pick at your skin is number one. Moisturize and use AHA lotions that will help the natural process of your skin. I cover up as well and sometimes its difficult when I meet someone because I think they might not understand. But it might be me who is the judgemental one and the shallow one not giving that person a chance to really understand me. Well hope this helps.

Lostboy, this may be a dumb question, but what does AHA stand for in relation to lotion?