Home Remedies for Keratosis Pilaris (Bumps on the Skin)

Keratosis pilaris, also called “chicken skin”, is a common skin disorder characterized by small, acne-like bumps usually appearing on the upper arms, legs, buttocks or cheeks. These white or red bumps tend to be rough, dry, and at times, itchy. It is usually a benign condition that may improve or even disappear with age, generally by the age of 30.

Basically, it occurs when there is excess keratin protein in the skin that plugs hair follicles, causing bumps to form that make your skin feel like sandpaper and appear like goose flesh. The reason for the buildup of keratin is not known.

Keratosis pilaris often runs in families and is also associated with eczema and other dry skin conditions. Plus, it tends to worsen during the winter months.

Though there is no known cure for keratosis pilaris, several over-the-counter creams and lotions can help deal with this problem. You can also try some natural and easy home remedies.

Here are the top 10 home remedies for keratosis pilaris.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is great for keratosis pilaris bumps as its astringent properties help unclog the skin pores. It is also good for your overall health.

• Mix equal parts of organic apple cider vinegar and water. Apply it on the affected area, leave it on for a few minutes and then wash it off. Repeat a few times daily until you are satisfied with the results. If the solution is too strong for your skin, you can dilute it further by adding more water.
• Another option is to mix one-half cup each of apple cider vinegar and coconut oil. Add one tablespoon of soy lecithin. Use this ointment on the affected skin daily.
• You can also add one teaspoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drink it once or twice a day.

2. Coconut Oil

Pure, virgin coconut oil is another effective home remedy for keratosis pilaris because of its moisturizing properties. Plus, it promotes glowing skin and provides anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.

• Apply coconut oil on your skin several times a day, especially after bathing when your skin is still moist to help retain the moisture.
• Eat one teaspoon of coconut oil daily. You can gradually increase the amount to up to three tablespoons per day.
• You can also create a homemade scrub by mixing one part each of white sugar and brown sugar, two parts of coconut oil and one or two teaspoons of honey. Gently rub the mixture on your skin to exfoliate, wash it off and then moisturize your skin. Use it once or twice a week.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent exfoliant to remove dead skin cells that block the pores, thus helping get rid of bumps on your skin.

1. Mix enough water in two teaspoons of baking soda to make a paste.
2. Dampen your skin and gently scrub with the paste in a circular motion.
3. Wash it off with warm water and then moisturize your skin.
4. Repeat a few times a week.

4. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is another fabulous ingredient for your skin as it soothes dry, itchy skin. It can also be used as a skin scrub to get rid of the buildup of dead skin cells.

• Grind one-third cup of oatmeal in a food processor or coffee grinder to a fine powder. Add it to warm bath water and soak in it for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this at least once a week.
• You can also make a paste of one tablespoon of oatmeal and warm water. Gently rub it on your skin and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash it off and then moisturize your skin. Do this a few times a week.

5. Sour Cream

Sour cream contains lactic acid that helps exfoliate the skin to remove the buildup of keratin without drying out your skin. When combined with sugar, it makes a great skin scrub.

1. Mix one teaspoon of white or brown sugar and two teaspoons of sour cream.
2. Apply it on the affected skin and gently scrub in a circular motion.
3. Leave it on for a few minutes and then wash it off.
4. Repeat a few times a week.

As yogurt and buttermilk also contain lactic acid, you can apply either of these as well.

6. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is beneficial for your skin and overall health. Being rich in minerals, it helps soften dry, hard skin, soothes itching, removes toxins, reduces inflammation and relieves stress.

• Stir one cup of Epsom salt in warm bath water. Soak in it for about 20 minutes. Pat dry your skin and apply a moisturizer or coconut oil. Do this a few times a week.
• Another option is to mix a handful of Epsom salt with one tablespoon of olive oil. Gently scrub your skin with this mixture once or twice a week.

Note: Epsom salt baths are not recommended for those with high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes.