Dry Brushing Keratosis Pilaris: Is It Effective?
One of the many things we are most insecure about is our complexion. It is the first thing that we notice because it is the largest organ of the body.
Being the largest, it requires the most care, too. Signs of unhealthy complexion can visibly appear that sometimes affect our confidence.
Most especially skin conditions that leave unsightly marks on our skin. Take Keratosis Pilaris as an example.
Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a skin condition that affects children and progresses up until 30. The common symptoms are as follow:
- Tiny bumps (mostly appears around upper arms, cheeks, or buttocks)
- Either brown or red bumps depending on the skin color
- Rough and dry patches
- Sometimes it’s itchy
Keratosis Pilaris or commonly known as Chicken Skin is a protein build-up called Keratin in the pores. And because of this, it blocks growing hair follicles which results in tiny bumps.
The reason for the protein build-up is still unknown but claimed to be genetic. Also, it is commonly associated with atopic dermatitis.
Can you get rid of Keratosis Pilaris? The answer is yes.
Usually, keratosis pilaris fades when you reach 30. But it can flare up during hormonal changes like pregnancy or puberty.
Dry weather can worsen your condition, too.
The recommended treatments are moisturizing creams or gentle exfoliants that help remove dead skin.
That includes our favorite exfoliating method, Dry Brushing.
DRY BRUSHING KERATOSIS PILARIS
Dry brushing effectively removes dead skin, which makes it ideal for getting rid of KP.
Eliminating the top layer of the skin encourages cell turnover. It helps diminish the appearance of bumps and rough patches.
And if you are new to dry brushing, you can read this helpful guide before you start your dry brushing journey.
For this exfoliating method, you will need a natural body brush like our CSM Body Brush.
How To Dry Brush Your Keratosis Pilaris
It is important to remember that you need to be gentle when dry brushing KP. Follow these simple steps:
- Make sure that your body brush is dry and cleaned. You can check this guide for the deep cleaning method. A dirty brush cannot exfoliate your skin well.
- Clothes off and do it inside the bathroom. It’ll be much easier to clean after your session.
- Brush in long strokes upwards on areas like your arms, legs, thighs, and back.
- Brush in circular motions on areas like the stomach and buttocks.
- Dry brush the areas for at least 5 minutes.
- Let your skin relax for at least a minute before lathering your favorite moisturizing cream or lotion.
As mentioned, KP naturally fades when you reach 30. If you are past 30 and still experiencing KP, you may start treating it with recommended treatments.
There is no instant solution to KP. But you have to be consistent, especially with dry brushing, to improve your skin’s condition. And don't forget to moisturize your skin!
Related Article: Dry Brushing Stretch Marks And More Surprising Benefits