Keratosis pilaris: how to remove small rough pimples on the skin?

March 30, 2023By Chloé Le Clerc de la Herverie

👉 Discover our keratosis kit composed of our three solids:

My family and I have very very dry skin, with atopic tendency and atopic eczema . We know keratosis pilaris well!

I was self-conscious for a long time when I was young about the little brown spots on my arms. My daughter Margot, 9, scratches herself regularly and a lot when the seasons change....

I started On Behalf to help us all combat these everyday discomforts.

Thanks to natural, organic and very effective products, but also practical and enjoyable, in order to really integrate them into our daily routine!

Very common, keratosis pilaris is no less disturbing! Here is our advice to relieve your skin with natural care.

Keratosis pilaris affects 40% of the world's population . This skin condition, which more often affects women, manifests itself as small, grainy pimples on the body . Benign and non-contagious, it is nevertheless annoying for those who suffer from it. Irregular skin texture, dryness and sometimes itching, keratosis pilaris can be relieved with natural care, but also through the use of superfatted soap. Focus on this skin disorder and the solutions to live better with it!

What is keratosis pilaris?

This is a common skin condition that usually appears on the back of the arms , thighs , buttocks , and also the face . Skin affected by keratosis pilaris has small pimples and a grainy texture to the touch, a bit like when you have goosebumps. It is also particularly dry and rough, which can cause itching and discomfort.

Children and adolescents are most affected by this skin problem. Although it does not cause serious complications, keratosis pilaris can affect self-esteem due to its unsightly appearance. Fortunately, in the vast majority of cases, the symptoms tend to diminish or even disappear from adulthood.

What causes those little rough pimples on the skin?

Keratosis pilaris is caused by the overproduction of keratin by the pores of the skin, which will block the hair follicles and therefore prevent the hairs from breaking through.

Result: the epidermis thickens, small red (on light skin) or brown (on dark skin) pimples appear. They then turn into hard plugs. These papules tend to be more discreet in summer and to appear more intensely in winter.

According to experts, the origin of keratosis pilaris is genetic . Yes, 30 to 50% of patients who suffer from it have a family history. It is therefore transmitted by one or both parents!

This skin disorder often accompanies other skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or ichthyosis . Finally, a deficiency in vitamins C and A can also explain its appearance.

How to remove keratosis pilaris?

There is no miracle treatment to eliminate keratosis pilaris. However, it is possible to reduce the symptoms while waiting for it to disappear on its own. And for that, exfoliation and hydration are the key !

👉 Gently cleanse your skin!

Cleaning your sensitive skin must therefore be done gently . You must absolutely avoid aggressive products that could irritate your skin even more. No more classic shower gels with dubious chemical composition. Hellonatural solid soaps ! On the program: hydration and maximum respect for your skin .

And for this,superfatted soap is your best ally ! Indeed, this cleansing treatment enriched with moisturizing agents strengthens your skin barrier . Thus, your hydrolipidic film retains all its power to protect your skin from external aggressions and bacteria. Deeply nourished , it regains all its suppleness day after day. And in addition, superfatted solid soap is so gentle that it can be used on the face and body.

So, which soap for keratosis pilaris should you choose? At On Behalf, we make solid superfatted soaps suitable for the most sensitive skin . Made from organic vegetable oils, our cleansing treatments are 100% natural. Result: they nourish your skin and soothe the discomforts associated with keratosis pilaris.

👉 Nourish your skin

Daily hydration is mandatory!

This will help restore the nutrition and suppleness your skin needs.

Opt for natural formulas rich in nourishing ingredients in quantity . Practical formats to have on hand.

It targets rough areas, deeply hydrates and smoothes the skin. An ideal and effective natural solution for soft, blemish-free skin.

👉 Gently exfoliate your skin

Exfoliation can help reduce the appearance of pimples. However, opt for a gentle exfoliation to avoid further irritating the skin. Our exfoliating superfatted solid soap smells delicious (Coconut-Sandalwood-Tonka bean) to feel like you're in a spa

👉 Keratosis pilaris and natural tips

There are also three essential natural tips to relieve this skin disorder:

Rosemary essential oil: thanks to its purifying, restorative and calming properties, it is the ally of choice for skin prone to keratosis pilaris. It is used by mixing it with a teaspoon of baking soda for an exfoliating effect, and another moisturizing vegetable oil (argan oil for example). Once your little potion is ready, all that remains is to massage yourself in the shower for 2 minutes, two to three times a week. Note: rosemary essential oil should not be used by pregnant women, children under 12 years old, and people who suffer from epilepsy

Castor oil: its high concentration of ricinoleic acid makes it an effective remedy for combating dry skin. Highly moisturizing, castor oil helps restore supple skin. For even more softness, you can alternate it with coconut oil.

Oat bath: this cereal is known for its emollient and calming properties, perfect for soothing skin sensitized by keratosis pilaris. In practice, simply add a small glass of oat flakes (or let them infuse in a small sachet) to the warm water of your bath. Let's go for 15-20 minutes of pure relaxation!