Tips from Leading Dermatologist, Dr. Alan Fleischer

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is an inherited skin disorder that develops in up to 40 percent of the population. I see many patients in my practice who come to me about extremely dry skin and unexplained red bumps, and for relief from itching that can occur from KP. To confirm that little red bumps are the result of KP, you should visit a doctor or dermatologist, since some other medical conditions can mimic KP. Your doctor or dermatologist can also help you determine if a moisturizer to help with the dry skin associated with KP should be part of your skin care regimen. There is no cure for Keratosis Pilaris but as an expert, I can tell you that you can manage the dry skin associated with Keratosis Pilaris by keeping the skin moist with a serious moisturizer, like AmLactin® Moisturizing Body Lotion and Cream or extra strength AmLactin XL® Moisturizing Lotion. AmLactin® products are cosmetic moisturizers for exfoliating and smoothing rough, dry skin. AmLactin® is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition.

Here are a few additional tips that a dermatologist may recommend to help manage KP:

1. Keep your skin well-hydrated and moisturized, particularly in the winter months.
2. Limit your bath or shower time to about 15 minutes or less, and use warm, rather than hot, water.
3. Use a mild soap or cleanser that has added oils and fats.
4. Use a mild loofah to gently scrub the area weekly.
5. After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel so that some moisture remains on the skin.
6. For dry skin associated with KP, apply an exfoliating moisturizer everyday, one that contains lactic acid, like AmLactin® or AmLactin XL®. For best results, apply to dry skin twice a day after a bath when skin is still moist.
7. For severe cases of dry skin, start with AmLactin XL® and then maintain healthy skin by switching to AmLactin® twice a day.
8. To keep skin from getting dry or sunburned, avoid unnecessary sun exposure and apply sunscreen. This is especially important if you use Amlactin® moisturizers.
9. Avoid deodorant and antibacterial detergents, which are especially harsh.
10. Use a portable home humidifier or one attached to your furnace to add moisture to the air inside your home.