4 Methods to Treat KP--Over the Counter Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris

Today I'm sharing something personal--I have KP (keratosis pilaris). It's a common skin condition that causes rough, red patches that look like acne, but aren't. It's most commonly found on the back of arms or the top of the legs, but can be found in other places. It's not contagious and doesn't hurt. KP is not the same thing as eczema. It is caused by a buildup of excess keratin. It is common in dry skin. Sometimes it clears up on its own, and sometimes products are needed. Today I'm sharing 4 methods to treat KP--all over the counter. Try these before heading to your Dr. or dermatologist. All of these have worked on others, and might work for you. Check with your Dr. if needed before beginning.

1-Prenatal Vitamins--These did nothing for me, but I have heard of these working for other women. If you get cystic acne, check with your Dr. first. Some hair/skin/nails vitamins have Biotin, which can cause some to break out.

2-Granule Exfoliation--Try using a salt or sugar scrub on the areas every time you shower. These can be purchased or made. Try my DIY section. I've got lots of recipes there. LUSH makes a great one (pictured). I prefer sugar scrubs.

3-Manual Exfoliation--I have tried brushes and gadgets, but nothing worked like these Italian Washcloths (pictured). They're actually Asian, they're cheap and come in fun colors, like red and green. I would also suggest Konjac Sponges. These are a really popular sponge for the face, but I like them on my arms.

4-Cream Exfoliation--I have tried oils, various lotions and potions, and thick creams with ingredients like AHA, lactic acid, or salicylic acid really work. I use these in conjunction with the washcloth. Some of my faves include CeraVe, KP Duty, Amlactin, and Curel Rough Skin Rescue.

What else didn't work for me: coconut oil, dandruff shampoo, ingesting various oils, thin lotions. If I stop exfoliating and moisturizing, the roughness comes back. 

In the video above, I go into more detail about KP and these treatments. I also share some additional methods that didn't work at all for me. Thanks for checking it out!

Extra Elle

• Hanging in there, y'all! Please be patient as I get caught up on emails and blogs. I'm trying to establish a normal life again and get over a cold. Again, thanks for your thoughts and prayers.
• I had a low-key weekend of watching Theory of Everything (it was ok) and finishing my audiobook of Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham. She is a great writer, but her voice drove me crazy sometimes!