How can keratosis pilaris be eliminated?

≈ 40%

adults worldwide have keratosis pilaris.

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1. Exfoliate the skin once or twice a week to reduce keratosis pilaris.

Exfoliation is another useful step in the treatment of keratosis pilaris, as it helps to remove the build-up of dead skin cells that blocks the hair follicles and gives the skin its rough, bumpy appearance. An exfoliating scrub for keratosis pilaris can be used once or twice a week to help gradually smooth the skin’s texture and reduce the “strawberry skin” appearance often seen on the legs. Mechanical scrubbing or chemical exfoliation– both are effective options! However, if you choose a scrub, make sure you opt for micro‑granules to avoid irritating your skin.

Tip : Do not forget to apply a moisturising cream after you have exfoliated your skin, to restore its hydrolipidic film.

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2. Avoid shaving or waxing the skin so as not to worsen keratosis pilaris.

The preferred hair removal method among French men and women, shaving can lead to skin irritation, accompanied by redness and itching. This mild inflammation can then worsen keratosis pilaris and cause new bumps to appear. However, epilation using electrical devices or wax is not recommended either. The former, which uses an electric current to destroy hair follicles, promotes the formation of ingrown hairs due to follicle rupture or improper technique. Similarly, by pulling hairs out from the root, waxing can disrupt regrowth and lead to ingrown hairs.

If you have keratosis pilaris and wish to remove your hair, we instead recommend one of the following two hair removal methods: depilatory cream or laser hair removal. The principle of depilatory cream is simple and is based on the presence of thioglycolic acid in its formulation. This molecule alters the structure of the keratin in the hair, weakening it and allowing it to be removed gently. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, relies on the principle of selective photothermolysis. The infrared rays it emits target the melanin concentrated in the hair and are converted into heat to destroy the entire follicle. It should be noted that this technique is only suitable for people with dark hair.

3. Use dermatological treatments to target keratosis pilaris.

When moisturising care and exfoliation are not sufficient, a dermatological treatment for keratosis pilaris may be considered. The prescribed active substances often help to improve the appearance of the skin by acting directly on the build-up of keratin in the hair follicles. Among the most extensively studied molecules are retinoids, such as tretinoin, adapalene or tazarotene. These vitamin A derivatives accelerate cell turnover and reduce blockage of the hair follicles by promoting the elimination of dead skin cells. They can therefore help gradually to smooth the skin and lessen the characteristic grainy appearance of so-called “chicken skin”.

Other active agents have also been investigated in the treatment of keratosis pilaris. Azelaic acid, known for its keratolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, may help to reduce thickening of the stratum corneum and improve skin texture. Calcipotriol, a vitamin D derivative used in dermatology, has also shown some potential in a few studies by modulating keratinocyte proliferation.

These treatments can improve the appearance of the skin and help to partially get rid of keratosis pilaris, particularly on the arms or legs. However, results vary between individuals.

4. Undergoing laser treatment sessions.

If conventional treatments are not sufficient, laser sessions may be considered.

Several technologies can be used. The Nd:YAG laser, the CO₂ laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) devices act by targeting cutaneous structures involved in keratosis pilaris lesions. Depending on the type of device, the treatment can reduce inflammation around the hair follicles, improve skin texture or stimulate the production of collagen. These mechanisms help to progressively smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of strawberry skin.

The results generally appear after several sessions spaced a few weeks apart. However, as with most approaches aiming to get rid of keratosis pilaris, the effects are not always long-lasting. The lesions may reappear once treatment is stopped, which means maintenance sessions may be required to preserve the results. Finally, this method is not suitable in all situations. Laser sessions are not recommended during pregnancy and for individuals taking photosensitising medications, such as isotretinoin, for example, an anti-acne treatment.