How to get rid of chicken skin

Jul 16, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

May I ask, I am 38 years old this year, and recently my skin has frequently developed goosebumps. I would like to know how to get rid of keratosis pilaris?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
"Chicken skin" usually refers to keratosis pilaris, a common skin condition characterized by small, grainy bumps on the skin. It frequently appears on areas such as the outer upper arms, inner thighs, and buttocks. This condition is primarily caused by hereditary factors and excessive keratinization of the skin, rather than a fungal infection. Below are some ways to improve the condition: 1. Moisturizing care: Use mild lotions or creams rich in moisturizing ingredients, such as products containing urea, retinoic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids, which can help soften keratin and alleviate symptoms. 2. Gentle cleansing: Avoid using harsh soaps and exfoliating products that may worsen skin inflammation. Choose mild bathing products and minimize rubbing the skin. 3. Lifestyle habits: Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water; follow a balanced diet and ensure sufficient intake of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are beneficial for skin health. 4. Topical medications: Keratosis pilaris is a chronic follicular keratinization disorder that may be related to vitamin deficiencies or endocrine factors. It causes the skin surface to develop a chicken-skin appearance. Under a doctor's guidance, topical medications such as salicylic acid ointment or tretinoin cream can be applied to soften or dissolve keratin. 5. Oral medications: If the skin symptoms are severe, oral vitamin A tablets or vitamin E soft gel capsules may be taken under a doctor's supervision to help alleviate the skin condition. 6. Laser therapy: For keratosis pilaris, laser treatment can also be an option to improve the condition. The thermal energy generated by the laser can accelerate epidermal cell metabolism and improve skin roughness.