So todays Reader’s Request is a lengthy one and it’s from M. C. who wrote:

Hi my name is [M. C.] and I’ve been a reader of your blog SCforM for months now I have to say great work! I was wondering if you would have any information on good skincare products for men that have (KP) Keratosis Pilaris? I’ve had it since I can remember but never had any luck in getting rid of it =/ if you can offer any information it would be greatly appreciated.

So what is Keratosis Pilaris?

That trusty source Wikipedia tells us:

Keratosis pilaris (KP, also follicular keratosis) is a very common genetic follicular condition that is manifested by the appearance of rough bumps on the skin, hence referred to as chicken skin. It most often appears on the back and outer sides of the upper arms (though the lower arms can also be affected), and can also occur on the thighs, hands, and tops of legs, flanks, buttocks, or any body part except glabrous skin (like the palms or soles of feet). Less commonly, lesions appear on the face, which may be mistaken for acne.

You cannot ‘cure’ KP and it is notoriously difficult to treat but there are now a plethora of treatment options for those suffering from this common skin complaint.

Treatment options usually take at least one of three routes:

1. Retinoids such as Retin-A thin the suface of the skin (whilst making the layers underneath thicker). A thinner skin surface means less clogged pores and this mechanism makes retinoids great for acne and KP. If you’d like to try a retinoid, as your doctor or dermatologist about using them for Keratosis Pilaris.
2. Exfoliation is probably the best thing you can do to lessen the appearance of skin with KP. This can include products with AHAs and physical body scrubs.
3. Skin creams containing Urea or other deep moisturisers are a favourite with KP sufferers because they provide intense hydration without making the skin look worse.

Now for product recommendations!

DERMAdoctor KP Line

The Keratosis Pilaris line from DERMAdoctor is fantastic. Definately check out their website if you’d like to educate yourself further about KP. Highlights from their line include the famous KP Duty moisturiser. This combines the most effective KP treatments into one moisturiser; Glycolic acid to exfoliate, Urea to moisturise, Green Tea to soothe and a few other goodies to keep your skin calm, smooth and soft. This comes in a set with a body scrub too.

Amlactin

AmLactin is another hugely popular KP treatment that contains 12% Lactic acid (an AHA) to smooth and moisturse the skin. This one is inexpensive and a good place to start.

M2 Body Refinish 15%

I talked about their Skin Refinish here and the body refinish is just as fantastic. This contains AHAs to blitz away any bumps and flaky bits. Pricey but I think it’s worth it, you can even use this on your face!

Avene Akerat

This moisturiser combines Lactic and Salicylic acid as well as moisturisers to really hydrate your skin, leaving it ridiculously smooth and supple.

Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion with 10% AHA

Another great body exfoliant containing 10% AHA without a fussy ingredient list that could irritate your skin.

Glytone KP Kit

This kit comes with a shower gel and lotion both containing AHAs and both suited to sensitive skin, perfect for those with Keratosis Pilaris.

As with any condition, do your research before you make a purchase. Unfortunately, with KP a lot that works for others may not work for you. It’s a case of trial and error until you find what you like best but it is manageable so have hope!

Some other tips to note if you have KP:

• Dont scratch or pick at your bumps! You know it’s bad, don’t do it.
• Buy a filtered shower head. The chlorine in your water can aggravate your KP further, filtered shower heads are relatively inexpensive and make a huge difference.
• Zinc supplements have been documented to calm down KP so work them into your daily routine to see if they make a difference. This is a long-term treatment so dont expect instant results!
• Read that Head and Shoulders post I wrote today.

If you have KP and have any other suggestions, please let me know by leaving a comment or sending me an email.

Disclaimer: I am not paid or sponsored by any of the companies mentioned in this article, all these suggestions are based on what’s popular amongst professionals and regular people dealing with KP.