How to fix your bumpy skin with CeraVe
When it comes to skincare, CeraVe have a solution for a huge range of concerns. Whether your skin is dry, oily, sensitive or somewhere in between, CeraVe’s range will have you covered.
Their products aren’t just for your facial routine though - they can be used for a variety of skin concerns all over your body. That includes keratosis pilaris, a common skin condition that affects approximately 40% of adults worldwide.
In this guide, we’ll be learning all about keratosis pilaris and how you can improve the appearance of your skin with CeraVe.
What is keratosis pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris - also known as ‘chicken skin’ - is a common condition where small bumps appear on the skin. It’s a completely harmless condition that usually affects your upper arms, thighs or buttocks.
The tiny bumps usually appear red or brown in colour and can make your skin feel dry, but they don’t cause any discomfort or itching.
What are the symptoms?
The main sign of keratosis pilaris is the appearance of bumpy skin - it will usually look like goosebumps. The general symptoms of the condition can include:
- Painless bumps on your skin
- Redness around the bumps
- Dry, rough skin
- Itchy, irritable skin
You might find that your skin is better during the summer and worse during the winter when your skin is more prone to dryness.
What causes keratosis pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin, a hard protein that makes up your skin and protects it from infection. Keratin can block the opening of your hair follicles (pores), causing tiny bumps to form.
The exact cause of keratosis pilaris isn’t known, but it may be associated with your genes or other skin conditions like dermatitis.
Who is likely to have keratosis pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris can affect anyone, but it’s particularly common in children, teenagers, young women and pregnant women.
You might be more likely to develop the condition if you also suffer from dry skin, eczema or ichthyosis vulgaris (scaly skin). People with hay fever or obesity can also be more likely to have keratosis pilaris.
The condition will usually clear up by itself during your mid to late 20s and it should be gone completely by the time you’re 30.
How to improve bumpy skin
Keratosis pilaris isn’t something to worry about, but there are some steps you can take to improve the appearance of your skin if it’s bothering you:
- Moisturise regularly
- Use mild and unperfumed soaps
- Have cool or lukewarm showers and baths
- Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing
Whilst you might be thinking about manually scrubbing your skin smooth, physical exfoliation won’t help keratosis pilaris and may actually make it worse. Instead, CeraVe have a range of skincare products that are specifically designed for dry, rough, bumpy skin.
CeraVe’s award-winning SA Smoothing Cleanser and SA Smoothing Cream both contain salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliant that will gently unclog your pores and improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris.
Including the SA Smoothing Cleanser & Cream in your skincare routine will remove dirt and oil, moisturise your skin and protect your skin’s natural barrier. Both products are fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and ideal for people with sensitive skin.
