LacHydrin 5% and LacHydrin 12%

LacHydrin 12%

LacHydrin 12 might be most dermatologists firsthand treatment for keratosis pilaris. It is "the one" product that triggers many conflicting comments among users. Some find it very effective while others report minimal improvement. The active ingredient is 12% Ammonium Lactate. LacHydrin 5 is available OTC while LacHydrin 12 is available with prescription only.

AmLactin 12

AmLactin 12

AmLactin is manufactured by Upsher-Smith as an OTC version of Ammonium Lactate 12% (same active ingredient as LacHydrin 12%). AmLactin is available in cream and lotion form. The cream form might be better for very dry skin due to its thicker/occlusive nature.

Retin-A

Retin-A

Tretinoin is used to treat acne and aged, sun damaged skin. It works by increasing the turnover of skin cells and by speeding up the shedding of dead cells. In general, tretinoin gels are stronger than tretinoin creams because the medicine penetrates better when in a gel form. However, the alcohol base gel will dry skin more (not good for kp!). That's why most doctors prefer the cream or liquid base instead. Like LacHydrin, some people find Retin-A to be very effective with regular use while others don't. Note that when using this treatment, you should stick with it even if you don't see immediate results as it may take some time. Sun protection is a must since tretinoin makes the skin more sensitive to sun light (easier to get a sun burn). I've tried to have my insurance cover Retin-A, and found out they only cover if prescribed to a patient under 26 years of age; this treatment could be very expensive.

Carmol 10, Carmol 20 & Carmol 40

Carmol 10 & 20 and Carmol 40

The active ingredient in Carmol 10 & Carmol 20 is 10/20 % Urea respectively. It is available over the counter on most pharmacies. Someone reported good results from Carmol 40. Note that at very high concentrations, Urea could cause irritation to sensitive skin individuals. Carmol 40 (40% Urea) is available by prescription only.

Glytone Lotion (20% Glycolic Acid)

Glytone Lotion

AHA based body lotion. Contains 20% Glycolic Acid in a moisturizing base. Alpha Hydroxy products work by exfoliating the upper most layer of the skin thus, reducing follicle blockage.

MD Forte Hand & Body Cream (20% Glycolic Acid)

MD Forte Hand & Body Cream

AHA based cream. Contains 20% Glycolic Acid in a moisturizing base. Alpha Hydroxy products work by exfoliating the upper most layer of the skin thus, reducing follicle blockage.

Epilyt

Epilyt

Epilyt is a keratolytic humectant containing propylene glycol and lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid.