Defeating 'Strawberry Skin': Strategies for Flawless Beauty

Hello Moms! Welcome back to our weekly blog, this week we will be discussing what the internet calls “chicken skin” or “strawberry skin.” The clinical name for it is Keratosis Pilaris. Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common and benign skin condition characterized by small, red or flesh-colored bumps that often resemble goosebumps or the skin of a plucked chicken. These bumps typically appear on the outer areas of the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or even the face. Keratosis pilaris is caused by the buildup of keratin, a protein that protects the skin from infections and other harmful substances. In individuals with KP, the excess keratin forms plugs in hair follicles, leading to the characteristic bumps.

While keratosis pilaris is generally harmless and doesn't cause itching or pain, its appearance can be a source of concern for some individuals. The condition often becomes more noticeable during the winter months when the skin tends to be drier.

Keratosis pilaris (KP) can affect individuals of various demographics and age groups. It is a common condition that often manifests in childhood and adolescence, with estimates suggesting that up to 50-80% of adolescents may experience some degree of KP. However, it's not limited to these age groups and can persist into adulthood.

While KP is prevalent among children and teenagers, it can affect people of all ages, including adults. The severity of symptoms and the areas affected may vary among individuals. It is also noteworthy that there may be a genetic predisposition, and individuals with a family history of KP are more likely to develop the condition. 

Keratosis pilaris (KP) typically manifests in specific areas of the body, commonly in regions where hair follicles are more prevalent. The most frequent sites of manifestation include:

Arms: The outer areas of the upper arms are a common location for KP. Bumps often appear in clusters, resembling goosebumps or the skin of a plucked chicken.

Thighs: The tops of the thighs, particularly the back part, can also be affected. The bumps may vary in size and texture.

Buttocks: KP can present on the buttocks, often with small, red or flesh-colored bumps that may be surrounded by rough skin.

While these are the primary areas where keratosis pilaris is commonly found, it's worth noting that in some cases, the condition may also occur on other parts of the body. It can occasionally affect the face, especially in children, or other less common areas, though this is less typical. 

A critical aspect of managing KP is resisting the urge to pick or scratch affected areas. Emphasizing a gentle approach is crucial to prevent symptom exacerbation and potential scarring. KP does not leave scarring, when the condition is done your skin just goes back to normal without pigment or bumping, but if you pick, scratch or try to pop the bumps you will be left with scarring. 

First I have to be very clear that this condition clears up on its own and does not need any intervention. If you have a newborn, baby, toddler, adolescent or anyone under the age of 14 you should not do anything to try and treat this condition with the recommendations below, as treatments to clear this are exfoliants and harsh for young skin. Instead you should wash the skin with a gentle cleanser or body wash using a washcloth or loofah (if old enough) to keep the skin clean. This is enough exfoliating for this demographic of kids, adolescents continuously undergo a process called skin cell turnover. The skin is constantly renewing itself through a natural exfoliation process where old, dead skin cells are shed, making way for new ones. Just be patient with their skin process. 

As we age our skin cells take more time to turn over. The skin cell turnover rate in adults varies but is generally estimated to occur approximately every 28 to 40 days. This means that, on average, it takes about a month for new skin cells to replace the old ones. However, this rate can be influenced by various factors such as age, overall health, environmental conditions, and skincare practices. To get rid of our KP we need our skin to turn over faster, so we need to exfoliate it. The only pregnancy and breastfeeding safe ingredient that is effective in exfoliating KP is Glycolic Acid. If you've read any of my other articles you know pregnant and postpartum skin is sensitive, so do not over do it. Start off with exfoliating 2 times a week and slowly build yourself up to every other day if your skin can tolerate it. I like to use a glycolic acid wash and that is the easiest way I found to get my exfoliation accomplished. 

**Wearing sunscreen is essential when using glycolic acid because glycolic acid increases skin sensitivity to the sun. This acid is a champion exfoliator, encouraging skin cell turnover, but it also makes your skin more susceptible to the sun's harmful UV rays. Without proper protection, the risk of sunburn rises, and the potential for hyperpigmentation and premature aging is heightened. Incorporating broad-spectrum sunscreen into your skincare routine is crucial to preserve the benefits of glycolic acid while safeguarding your skin against the damaging effects of sun exposure. 

Continue to moisturize your skin as this will minimize the appearance of rough patches and keep the itchiness at bay. 

In wrapping up our exploration of Keratosis Pilaris, or "chicken skin," it's essential to grasp its broad impact across ages. The characteristic small bumps, mainly on arms, thighs, and buttocks, call for a gentle, hands-off approach to prevent scarring. For those under 14, let the skin's natural processes unfold. As we age, glycolic acid proves a safe exfoliant, but proceed gradually, especially during pregnancy. Sunscreen is non-negotiable, shielding against sensitivity and preserving glycolic acid benefits. This comprehensive approach empowers individuals to confidently manage Keratosis Pilaris, fostering happy, healthy skin for all.