Keratosis Pilaris is a form of Keratosis (skin inflammation) that appears as small, raised bumps on the upper outer arms or the front of the legs. These bumps can also become inflamed and reddened. This condition may be caused by an excess of keratin becoming trapped within the pores of the hair follicles, resulting in congestion, irritation and sometimes infection or ingrown hairs.
In regards to your question concerning the use of topical creams Jojoba and Witch Hazel for this conditoin they may be of benefit due to their cooling and moisturising effects, especially if used as a base cream with some essential oils. Jojoba oil may help to alleviate dry skin and skin irritations and Witch Hazel is an astringent, cleansing, anti-inflammatory and cooling to skin conditions.
Natural treatments which may help to reduce Keratosis pilaris:- You may use a topical cream to ease the irritation, soothe the skin and help to promote healing. Some herbs which you may find to be beneficial are Lavender, Comfrey, Hypericum, Calendula, Chickweed, Chamomile, Aloe Vera, Calendula and Rose hip in a base of aqueous cream. The Fusion Health Dermaheal cream or Hopes Relief cream contains some of these ingredients.
- Many Naturopaths believe this skin condition to be a deficiency sign for either Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) or Bioflavinoids. EFA’s are an important part of any diet, they include healthy oils from fish, nuts, seeds, raw olive oil, flaxseed oil and avocadoes. Include some flaxseed oil or fish oil into your diet to increase the essential fatty acid component of foods. EFA’s help to nourish and moisturise the skin as well as provide potent anti-inflammatory components. It is also recommended to take a Vitamin C supplement which contains Bioflavinoids to further help reduce inflammation and aggravation of the skin and address the nutritional deficiency.
- Keep the area clean to avoid infection.
- Gentle skin brushing of the area may help to reduce the incidence of blocked follicles and promote circulation.
- Address liver heat as any skin condition which involves redness or heat may be linked to the health of the liver. A gentle liver detox can address liver congestion, support kidney function and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
- Ensure adequate hydration as dehydration can cause acidity, blood heat and inflammation.
- Zinc supplementation - Zinc is a mineral which is needed to reduce inflammation and to help the skin to heal. Check your Zinc levels; you can do this at Flannerys stores by asking a retail assistant to perform a Zinc tasting test. Consider taking a Zinc supplement such as the Ethical Nutrients Zinc Fix or eat more zinc rich foods such as nuts, seeds, grains, oysters, red meats, parsley and pepitas (pumpkin seeds).
- Reduce acid forming foods and increase alkalising foods as this may help to reduce inflammation. An acidic environment in the body occurs due to eating too much sugar, dairy foods, wheat, alcohol, preservatives, processed and refined foods and not enough alkalising foods such as water, lemon juice, vegetable juices, miso soup, fresh fruits and vegetables and brown rice.