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Keratosis Pilaris Treatment: What NOT to do for KP skin

Keratosis Pilaris: Toddlers, Babies, and Children Do’s and Don’ts 

Keratosis pilaris in toddlers, babies or kids of any age can be overwhelming for their parents. From hearing the diagnosis to finding the best keratosis pilaris treatment for your little one, there is a LOT to learn.

If you have a child with keratosis pilaris, eczema (atopic dermatitis) or sensitive skin condition, maybe you’ve read quite a bit online about what to do to treat your child’s skin.

From keratosis pilaris lotion and creams to scrubs and vitamins, to allergy medicines…You’ve likely been bombarded with hundreds of methods to try.

Take a deep breath. We’ve got you covered.

But before you start finding the best thing to DO for your child with KP, let’s talk about what NOT to do. As a parent of a KP kid, what should you AVOID?

Keratosis Pilaris Treatment in Toddlers, Babies, & Kids

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A Few Tips: Keratosis Pilaris Treatment

Hopefully, you’ve found a cleansing and moisturizing method, or a great product that works (like our favorite household staple for KP skin, Aquaphor Baby Gentle Wash & Shampoo). If not, keep trying.

Every child’s skin can be so different.

Browsing our list of the top KP skin products purchased by parents in 2017 might be helpful too.

See what we’re using in our home to treat our family’s keratosis pilaris here: Keratosis Pilaris Products in Our Home.

And don’t forget to grab your free KP Tip Sheet with 10 Things You can do Today to Improve Your Child’s KP.

(We’re talking about keratosis pilaris tips, products and advice daily in our free Facebook group, KP Collective!)

5 Things NOT to do for Keratosis Pilaris in Babies, Toddlers, and Children

1. Do NOT scratch or pick at their skin, especially when the skin is dry.

Every day, every hour, your child’s skin loses moisture. It dries out. Dry skin becomes itchy and tight, which will exacerbate any skin conditions, like keratosis pilaris, eczema or sensitive skin.

Avoid scratching or picking at any affected areas (and remind your child not to scratch as well), or scrubbing your child’s KP skin excessively while bathing, to prevent even more moisture loss, scarring or inflammation.  It’s a self-perpetuating cycle that is hard to break, but establishing a good habit of no scratching is extremely helpful. However, less skin damage is done if the scratching is done through clothing rather than to bare skin.

Some of our KP friends swear by the Konjac Sponges for Babies for very light itches and bathing. Let us know what you think in the comments below or in the KP Collective group.

 

Join the KP Collective, our private Facebook group, for KP tips and advice from hundreds of KP parents just like you (it’s free!).

 

Natural-Skin-Care-Tips-For-Baby | KPKids.net

2. Do NOT skip bathing.

Many parents think that fewer baths means less moisture lost in their child’s sensitive skin, when in fact, moisture care starts with bathing.

While some experts may disagree on the ideal frequency of bathing a child with sensitive or KP skin, most will agree that baths and showers should be short in duration and a bit cooler in temperature.

 

RELATED: Keratosis Pilaris Products in Our Home

 

Tell those teenagers to make it quick, because prolonged showers can actually deplete their skin of that much-needed natural skin oil. Cleansing and scrubbing should be extremely gentle and cleansers should be as mild as possible (which is why we recommend so many organic and baby keratosis pilaris products).

When bathing a toddler or baby, keep the same thing in mind. Don’t skip baths, keep the water cooler, and don’t spend too much time in the water to avoid drying out natural moisture. When caring for baby keratosis pilaris, getting in the habit of a great bathing routine is essential.

By far, our most popular product we suggest is Aquaphor Baby Gentle Wash & Shampoo. Other awesome favorites we love are Cetaphil Baby Ultra Moisturizing Wash and California Baby Super Sensitive Shampoo & Body Wash (my kids really LOVE all the California Baby products).

 

RELATED: How a Humidifier can Help your Child’s Dry Skin

 

Kids playing | KPKids.net

3. Do NOT forget to apply a moisturizer or emollient.

Moisture is key. Let me say it again, moisture is key.

When it comes to keratosis pilaris moisturizer is a must. Apply it every day, after every bath, and especially before bedtime (when it has plenty of time and warmth to soak in). The thicker the formulation of any moisturizer, or emollient, the better it will add moisture back into your child’s skin. If your child is scratching, it’s time to reapply.

Get into a moisturizing routine with your child. Diagnosing keratosis pilaris in toddlers and babies is common, so starting this routine early will help it become a normal part of their life later on.

Looking for products to treat KP?

Click to see our list of parent-approved solutions!

And my best advice is to find the BEST available product to get the most out of your time and effort, which usually means ointments (like Aquaphor) work better than creams, creams (like Eucerin) work better than lotions. The thicker, the better, is a good rule to remember for KP skin and keep fragrances to a minimum.

For teens who don’t want to use baby keratosis pilaris products, we suggest Amlactin Hydrating Body Cream or Dermadoctor KP Duty.  And I keep these little guys tucked everywhere. Tell us what’s working best for your family in the KP Collective group.

 

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE KERATOSIS PILARIS TIP SHEET:
Learn 10 things you can do in the next 24 hours to improve your child’s keratosis pilaris.

 

smiling kids with KP | www.kpkids.net

4. Do NOT forget to use sunscreen.

I repeat… do NOT forget sunscreen. Sun exposure can be HARD on the healthiest of skin. Be sure that your child’s sensitive skin is protected with sunscreen for kids and apply it often. You don’t necessarily need a specific keratosis pilaris sunscreen as long as you’re protecting your child’s skin from those harmful rays.

Regardless of the season, the sun’s rays can cause excessive dry skin and sunburn. This is really important when trying to treat keratosis pilaris on face, arms, and legs. Read ingredients and choose a gentle sunscreen for face and a great sunscreen for body that will moisturize and protect their skin (like Alba Botanica.)

 

RELATED: The Top Keratosis Pilaris Products Purchased by Parents in 2017

 

Carefully apply and reapply sunscreen to concentrated areas of keratosis pilaris in toddlers and babies during extended time in the sun. Use hats and rash guards for extra protection.

Remind teenagers to reapply sunscreen often, because many teens love to sunbathe and build their tan. Sunscreen is a great skin protectant and moisturizer, so remind them to use it daily. Because what does red, sunburned skin make them want to do? Scratch! And that’s no good (see tip #1).

For babies and young children, we suggest Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen 50+ and Alba Botanica Very Emollient Kids Sunscreen (it’s rich!).

 

RELATED: Recommended Products for Teens with Keratosis Pilaris

 

 

Pediatrician & Dermatologist | KPKids.net

5. Do NOT be embarrassed to speak with your child’s pediatrician or dermatologist.

If your child has irritated KP skin patches or areas of concern, do NOT be embarrassed to ask your doctor what they recommend. Keratosis pilaris in babies, toddlers, and children is more common than you think. Doctors will be able to help point you in the right direction.

Most often, extra moisturization is step one, then possible medicated creams as step two.

Depending on your child’s age, scrubs or oral medications may be recommended if their case is severe. Your child’s pediatrician may refer you to a pediatric dermatologist for a consultation or a more in-depth treatment plan.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ASK QUESTIONS about how long a treatment should be used to see results. The more you know, the better you can help your child maintain healthy skin. Then come share what you’ve learned with other parents in our private Facebook group, KP Collective.

 

WHAT WE USE: Keratosis Pilaris Products in Our Home

 

 

For more tips on the best keratosis pilaris treatment for your child, follow us on Pinterest.

Tell us what you try NOT to do with your kid’s KP skin below in the comments.  We always love to hear from you!

 

RELATED:  What Your Answers to our Skin Care Questionnaire have Taught Us

 

 

Click below to get your FREE KP Tip Sheet with 10 Ways to Improve Your Kid’s Keratosis Pilaris today.

 

Posted by kpkids in Keratosis Pilaris Treatment
Recommended Products for Children with KP:  5 – 8 years

Recommended Products for Children with KP: 5 – 8 years

Our children become more independent every year, and managing the health of their skin becomes very important during the ages of 5 – 8 years.

But how do you teach them the basics of good skin care at this age?

 

Products for children kids skin keratosis pilaris age 5 6 7 8 | KPKids.net

 

 

Show them daily.

Establish good habits from the beginning and your child will feel more comfortable taking care of their sensitive skin. Opt for shorter showers over long baths. Studies have shown that cooler showers are better for those children with sensitive skin, keratosis pilaris or eczema because less natural moisture is pulled from the skin than in a long, hot bath.

You can make showers fun for your child with a suction-cup mirror and even a lighted shower head. What kid doesn’t like to sing in the shower?  🙂

Give them an example.

We all can learn by example. If your child is reluctant to all the attention you’re paying to their skin, show them a simple experiment. Do a side-by-side spot test on their skin with the cleanser, scrub or moisturizer you’d like for them to use…

For example, one arm untreated after their shower and one arm with the right skin care routine complete. Ask them to decide which area feels better, looks better and seems healthiest. Explain the benefits of good skin care early-on so they’ll be encouraged to continue to take care of their sensitive skin.

Show your child the best products to use after bathing (and before bed), how to use them and create a daily routine. The more independent your child can feel and the more they can do for themselves, the more confident they feel about their skin and body.

 

 

RELATED: Keratosis Pilaris Products we use in Our Home

 

Keep trying until you find something that works.

We’ve tested many products in our home through the years, and have come across our favorites through trial and error.  These are some of our top mom-tested products (and brands) for treating keratosis pilariseczema and sensitive dry skin in children…

 

Grab your FREE KP Tip Sheet with 10 Ways to Improve your child’s Keratosis Pilaris!

 


Posted by kpkids in Keratosis Pilaris Treatment, Recommended Products to Treat Keratosis Pilaris
How this $10 Lotion has Improved my Kids’ Keratosis Pilaris

How this $10 Lotion has Improved my Kids’ Keratosis Pilaris

How this $10 Lotion Dramatically Improved my Kids' Keratosis Pilaris | KPKids.net

After having three children in nine years, each with their own sensitive skin issues, I began to believe that I had tried every product, treatment and method available to clear up my kids’ skin (maybe not all, but close). Our children have dealt with keratosis pilaris, eczema, lichen striatus and extremely dry skin for years and finding a solution has been been exhausting. So when I found a lotion that made a noticeable difference, I just had to share it with you.

What we’ve been trying…

Keeping their skin healthy, moisturized and smooth has been an uphill battle during their early years and we’ve certainly tried our fair share of drugstore and prescription treatments, scrub mitts and brushes, and diet changes. While we have found a few favorite products that have brought some improvement to the appearance and feel of their skin, like Buf-Puf Reusable Facial Sponges and the Clarisonic Cleansing Brush, these products require some gentle exfoliation and scrubbing of their skin (which at times can already be irritated).

And when you’re dealing with a skin problem that usually affects half their body, the process of exfoliating their entire body (or yours, if you’re a KP sufferer too) can be time-consuming for those with “chicken skin”. But there’s hope. We’ve begun using a lotion every day in our home that is making a huge difference in the look, feel and health of our kids’ skin.

 

So what has made the biggest difference?

Fast-forward 3 months of (almost) daily use of our new favorite lotion, CeraVé Renewing SA Lotion, and I’m really liking the results that I see.

My pre-teen daughter’s keratosis pilaris is barely noticeable, my sports-loving son’s skin looks healthier (considering all the sweaty games and numerous showers he needs), and my toddler daughter’s skin looks and feels as smooth as the day she was born. Not only does that make ME happy… but having good skin makes THEM happy. #winning

CeraVé Renewing SA Lotion | KPKids.net

 

CeraVé Renewing SA Lotion contains salicylic acid to loosen and release those dead skin cells, and hyaluronic acid to draw in and retain moisture for longer. It has a light feel to it without being greasy (which kids hate, by the way) and it absorbs quickly (always a bonus, if you’re trying to dress a toddler).

This $10 lotion is our new go-to moisturizer that I have stashed in every bathroom. We use it (almost) daily to keep the kids’ skin smooth and soft, especially in those extremely dry, rough skin patches like the upper arms, thighs and cheeks.

This could honestly be the best thing that has happened to their “bumpy” arms and legs ever. Happy kids = happy mama.

 

CeraVé Renewing SA Lotion, $10

See more KP products we use in our home.

 

Looking for more product recommendations?

Click to see our list of parent-approved solutions!
Posted by kpkids in Living with Keratosis Pilaris, Recommended Products to Treat Keratosis Pilaris
What causes Keratosis Pilaris in children?

What causes Keratosis Pilaris in children?

Keratosis pilaris (ker-uh-TOE-sis pih-LAIR-is) is a common, harmless skin condition that causes dry, rough patches and tiny bumps, usually on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks.  The bumps generally don’t hurt or itch, but can become unsightly or embarrassing to young children and teens.

But what causes keratosis pilaris in children?

What Causes Keratosis Pilaris in Children? | KPKids.net

Keratosis pilaris is a hereditary condition, which means your child likely inherited the condition from their mother or father.  If you have it, or had it as a child, there’s a greater chance that your child will develop it as well.

 

RELATED: If I have it, will my child develop Keratosis Pilaris?

 

What is keratosis pilaris?

KP is caused by the excess build-up of keratin and dead skin cells around individual hair follicles.  Keratosis Pilaris is a genetic condition and is NOT caused by parental neglect and bathing too infrequently.  Sometimes overly frequent bathing can actually make your child’s keratosis pilaris worse (see 5 Things to NOT do for Kids with Keratosis Pilaris).

Keratosis pilaris is commonly seen in children and teens, but can begin as early as infancy.

Unfortunately, keratosis pilaris can not be cured or prevented.  But you can treat it with moisturizers and prescription creams to help improve the appearance of the skin. The skin condition usually disappears by age 30, but some adults deal with symptoms for many years.

RELATED:  Keratosis Pilaris Products in Our Home

How is KP diagnosed in childhood?

If you believe that you or your child may have the skin condition Keratosis Pilaris, be sure to visit your child’s Physician or Dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.

In most cases, your child’s doctor can diagnose KP simply by examining and touching the affected area of the skin. No testing is needed.

Looking for products to treat KP?

Click to see our list of parent-approved solutions!

 

To learn more about KP and caring for your child’s skin,
be sure to subscribe to our KPKids Community and join us in our private Facebook group. Together, we can find something that works.

 

10 Ways to Improve your Kid's Keratosis Pilaris Today | KPKids.net

 

Posted by kpkids in FAQ & Tips, Keratosis Pilaris Causes & Symptoms
If I have it, will my child develop Keratosis Pilaris?

If I have it, will my child develop Keratosis Pilaris?

Recent dermatological surveys tell us that over 40% of the population has some form of keratosis pilaris. Many adults with keratosis pilaris often wonder about the possibility of their children developing the same skin condition.

If I Have Keratosis Pilaris, Will my Kids Have KP too? | KPKids.net

While keratosis pilaris is commonly thought to be a genetic skin disorder, not all children will inherit this skin condition from their parents. Other factors may contribute to the genetic component, like seasonal allergies, food allergies and some dietary conditions.

However, your child is more likely to develop keratosis pilaris if they have any of the following:

  • Close blood relatives who have keratosis pilaris
  • Asthma
  • Dry skin
  • Eczema
  • Hay fever

If the bumps on your child’s skin bother them (or you), applying one of the following treatments can help reduce the itchiness and visibly reduce the appearance of the redness or white bumps.

  • Ammonium lactate cream or lotion (12%): Apply it as directed by your dermatologist. The most common brand is AmLactin.
  • A moisturizer: A cream or ointment works best. Apply it after bathing and gently massage it into the skin with keratosis pilaris 2 – 3 times a day. One of our favorites is Ceravé SA.

 

RELATED: 5 Things NOT to do for Kids with Keratosis Pilaris

 

 

Source: American Academy of Dermatology

 

Posted by kpkids in Keratosis Pilaris Causes & Symptoms, Living with Keratosis Pilaris
Can Keratosis Pilaris be completely cured?

Can Keratosis Pilaris be completely cured?

As anyone with Keratosis Pilaris knows, the search for a treatment and cure can be exhausting. But what many don’t understand is that Keratosis Pilaris is an inherited skin condition.

The recommended treatments for KP are only for the *temporary* relief of symptoms and must be used continuously to see improvement.

Can Keratosis Pilaris be Completely Cured? | KPKids.net

The treatment plan recommended by your child’s doctor or dermatologist should be maintained on a regular basis to ensure the best results in lessening the visibility and texture of the bumps on their face, arms and legs.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Keratosis Pilaris.

 

RELATED: What Your Answers to our Skin Care Questionnaire Have Taught Us about Keratosis Pilaris

 

Although the condition may remain for years, symptoms usually lessen by age 30. Keratosis pilaris symptoms may go away with age, but there is currently no cure.

Results will vary from case to case.  This simply means that what may work for one child, may not work for another.

Each child’s skin, diet and sun exposure is different. So keep trying different remedies until you find the best product with the best results for your child.

 

Posted by kpkids in FAQ & Tips, Keratosis Pilaris Treatment