Shower tips - Shower cleansers must be formulated for sensitive skin (little or no surfactant). Surfactants (soaps) work against keratosis pilaris by denaturalizing oils that keep much needed moisture from leaving the skin.

Using a body size buff-puff, nylon shower sponge or body brush with an alpha hydroxy based cleanser, or an acne wash can sometimes diminish the problem. Don't overdo exfoliation as this may cause irritation, specially when applying treatment products after the shower. Try observing how much your skin can handle without overdrying and adjust exfoliation accordingly.

Lotions and creams - Application of lotions or creams is recommended post-shower as skin is in its most receptive state at this time. Also, these will lock up added moisture on the surface of your skin. Remember, hydration of the stratum corneum (upper layer of the skin) is vital for the management of keratosis pilaris.

Some people find that certain lotions "feed" their keratosis pilaris by amplifying the appearance of the red marks/dots. This is true, especially if you have extensive scaring or marks left from previous kp episodes. Two reasons for this effect: 1) keratosis pilaris is a "dry skin disorder", dry skin tends to be opaque or ashy. This creates a camouflage effect that "hides" red marks/mini-scars partially. Heavy moisturizing lotions applied on keratosis pilaris affected skin have a "soaking" effect that will heighten marks/dots/scars, especially if the product has high oil content 2) Some "active" products cause mild stinging/irritation that intensify the characteristic redness associated with keratosis pilaris. For this reason, I prefer using "actives" overnight and then a light moisturizer during the day. The light moisturizer won't exaggerate the dots appearance.

Strong BHA (salicylic acid) products may have a devascularizing effect on the skin thus, reducing redness. Still, these can irritate and dry up your skin if used for long periods. Salicylate poisoning can also occur if used extensively (especially on children). When using strong BHA's (keralyt/hydrisalic), make sure you are letting skin rest accordingly. Take in consideration that over the counter treatments work differently depending on your skin type. As a rule of thumb, if you notice your skin is starting to feel irritated you should reduce the frequency of application or stop using the product altogether. If irritation occurs when applying "active" creams or lotions after the shower, use a regular moisturizer at that time and apply your "active" products before going to bed and/or morning.

Sun exposure - Sun exposure might improve symptoms temporarily, although it is not recommended by skin care professionals. Everybody knows sun exposure can cause premature aging, the destruction of skin texture, sun spots and skin cancer. I've come across statements on the net from keratosis pilaris sufferers claiming tanning beds improved their condition by "burning" the bumps. Although I DO NOT SUPPORT this statement myself, I'm looking forward to learn about everyone's experience on the message board! Sun exposure on People of Color dark spots the most! Dark-skinned individuals should always use a high SPF sunblock, specially if their blemishes have a tendency to over-darken.

Stress and Keratosis Pilaris - Several articles & reports support the fact that Keratosis Pilaris Rubra (red inflamed kp) may be linked to stress and anxiety. Note that the hereditary factor is still there. But inflammatory skin disorders in general are exacerbated by stress. I vow for this statement as I've experienced how stress management improves my KP tremendously.

Treatments available to boost your efforts - Professional glycolic and lactic acid peels can be useful in improving stubborn cases. They work by thinning the upper most layer of the skin, the stratum corneum. Microdermabrasion does mechanically what glycolic and lactic acid peels do chemically.

Sauna - I've noticed that using a sauna will help soften my skin considerably. This is not necessarily an option for everyone as some people have a heat sensitive kind of KP. Soon after having my second child, I started using a sauna twice a week. This, coupled with meditation and stress management has improved not only my KP but my general skin complexion as well.

Never stop the war against the bumps! - Keratosis pilaris is a genetic condition with no permanent cure. Home maintenance must be continued to prevent the symptoms from recurring.

NOTE: I'll include more helpful hints as they become available or discussed on the message board. Once a month, I'll provide an update through our Newsletter. To receive the Newsletter, send a blank email with the word "Join" on the subject field to melissa@keratosispilaris.org