Beauty FYI: There’s Hope For Chicken Skin
Here’s how you can minimize the appearance of those pesky bumps.
Dermatologists and skin experts refer to it as keratosis pilaris, but for us ordinary folks, we call it chicken skin, a.k.a. a common condition characterized by rough and unsightly bumps that can appear anywhere from your arms to your thighs, legs, and buttocks, and sometimes even on your face! Sounds familiar?
In case you didn’t know: These bumps are actually caused by the buildup of keratin, or the hard protein that’s naturally found in your skin and hair, which then blocks the opening of hair follicles, resulting in raised, bumpy skin that can sometimes appear pink, red or brown in color. They can also feel sandpaper-like and resemble goose flesh, like the skin of plucked chicken. (Hence, the term “chicken skin.”) “Keratosis pilaris is associated with dry skin conditions, the most common of which is atopic dermatitis,” says Dr. Maximin Navarro, Bella Pelle’s resident dermatologist and a Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow. Those with skin asthma and allergies are also more prone to this skin dilemma.
The sort-of-good news? It is pretty common—and completely harmless—so don’t feel too bad if it’s something you’re currently dealing with or have been experiencing for a while. (It can occur at any age, by the way!) The bad news, though, is there’s really no cure for it. You can take heart in knowing, though, that there are things you can do and products you can use to help manage and minimize their appearance.
Keratosis pilaris, managed
Itching to have smoother skin? Read on for our derma-approved tips on how to deal with chicken skin anywhere in your face or body:
Tip #1. Bathe with warm water. Short warm baths don’t just feel relaxing, they can help loosen and unclog your pores, too, preventing buildup. While at it, make sure to use a gentle cleanser—preferably one that’s non-comedogenic and unscented so as not to cause any further skin irritation. Avoid too-hot baths, though, as they can strip away skin’s moisture and dry up the skin.
Try: Vanicream Cleansing Bar, P500
This mild soap bar for the face and body is free of dyes, fragrance, and parabens, and is ideal for use on the face and body.
Froika W Plus Emollient Wash, P1,750
This moisturizing face and body wash gently cleanses while also soothing irritation and redness, as well as restoring normal skin function. It’s ideal for those with sensitive skin and those suffering from atopic dermatitis, too.
Tip #2. Exfoliate on the reg. Regular exfoliation can minimize keratin and dead skin buildup by sloughing them off, freeing pores from chicken skin-causing debris. You can use a physical exfoliator, like a loofah, or an exfoliating product like a wash, scrub, lotion or toner.
Try: Neostrata Exfoliating Wash, P2,780
This soap-free foaming cleanser with PHAs or polyhydroxy acids effectively removes dirt and oil while leaving skin hydrated, soothed, and refreshed.
Neostrata Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Lotion, P2,850
Infused with 8% glycolic acid and 2% citric acid, this lightweight exfoliating lotion helps smoothen the skin, diminishing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and rough skin.
Tip #3. Moisturize well. Aside from helping maintain healthy moisture, a hydrating lotion can also help smoothen rough skin and minimize the appearance of raised bumps. Even better: Products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can stimulate cell turnover, adding to the skin-renewing effect. You can also try soothing formulas or even hydrating mists to soothe inflammation.
Try: Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion, P1,100 to P1,600
A premium moisturizing lotion for dry and sensitive skin, this mild hydrator is perfect for soothing red, irritated, cracking, itchy, or bumpy skin. It’s ideal for use on the face, hands, and body.
Neostrata Bionic Lotion, P3,550
This is formulated with 12% Gluconolactone, 3% Lactobionic and Vitamin E to provide soothing moisture for dry, irritated skin, as well as complexions riddled with keratosis pilaris.
Neostrata Gel Plus, P2,950
This features an AHA formula to smoothen rough skin and even out the skin tone.
Froika W Plus Bath Oil, P1,730
This body emollient relieves severe dryness by intensely moisturizing and protecting skin. For best results, apply after your last rinse in the shower.
Ivatherm Eau Thermale Herculane (Thermal Spring Water), P750 to P900
Great for moisturizing on the go, this nutrient-rich water decongests, hydrates, and refreshes skin with just a few spritzes. It’s a great skin refresher on hot days, too!
Tip #4. Talk to your dermatologist
If you’re really keen on seeing dramatic improvements, your dermatologist may recommend going for in-clinic skin treatments. Some options that Dr. Navarro recommends are chemical peels, low-level light therapy (Healite), and the aqua dermabrasion peel.
For customized skin care recommendations, you can book a virtual dermatological consultation with Dr. Navarro here or inquire at the Bella Pelle Skin Solutions Center via (+63) 999-887-1944.
In the meantime, discover how you can build a skincare routine for your skin type, and learn more about the finest skincare products thoughtfully selected for you by Bella Pelle Philippines here.
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SHOP OTHER PRODUCTS:
 Neostrata Smooth Surface Daily Peel, P3,400 |
 Neostrata Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Cream (Ultra Smoothing Cream), P2,650 |
 Froika W Plus Cream, P2,250 |
 Froika Froicalm Cream, P1,850 |
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