Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that shows up as rough, bumpy skin, often on the arms or thighs. While it may not be harmful, it can be frustrating to have it happen! Conventional treatments like exfoliating creams and lotions can help, but there are integrative strategies you can use to help tackle the root causes of the problem.
KP is often linked to genetics and environmental factors, but it can also be tied to imbalances inside the body. Nutrient deficiencies, gut health problems, and immune system dysfunction may contribute to the severity of KP. That’s why addressing both internal and external factors can lead to more effective, long-term results.
Testing
Identifying offending foods, micronutrient deficiencies, and gut health imbalances may reveal clues about why your child’s skin isn’t functioning optimally. By addressing these root causes, you may be able to reduce the appearance of KP naturally.
Supplements and foods
While topicals like exfoliating lotions are important, supplements that support skin and immune health can complement them. Some of the most common ones used are:
Vitamin A: Often deficient in people with skin issues, vitamin A plays a critical role in skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3s can be helpful in reducing inflammation in the skin, improving overall texture and smoothness.
Zinc and Vitamin C: Both are vital for collagen production and wound healing.
The right supplements can help boost the immune system and improve skin health. You can also get my proven step-by-step roadmap along with supplements and dosing to build your child’s protocol.
BUT… you can’t out-supplement a diet lacking in the first place, so start with foods rich in these nutrients, like:
Vitamin A: Beef liver, cod liver oil, eggs, grass-fed butter, sweet potato, pumpkin, carrot, cantaloupe, mango, spinach, broccoli, kale, collard greens, butternut squash (essentially all red, orange, yellow, and green plant foods)
Omega 3s: Flaxseed, chia seeds, eggs, fatty fish and fish oils, other marine sources (sea vegetables/seaweeds), avocado, coconut oil
Vitamin C: Bell peppers, papaya, Brussels sprouts, strawberries, kiwi, grapefruit, orange, lemon, lime, broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, apple, spinach, banana
Zinc: Oyster, beef, crab, turkey, pork, chicken, pine nuts, cashews, sunflower seeds, pecans, Brazil nuts, chickpeas, almonds, lamb, pumpkin seeds, quinoa
Gut Health
Gut health plays a significant role in skin conditions, including KP. Imbalances in gut bacteria (dysbiosis), and leaky gut syndrome can contribute to inflammation that worsens skin issues. Appropriately tackling gut issues and avoiding inflammatory foods like gluten and dairy can help improve skin conditions like KP.
Lifestyle Changes
Beyond testing and supplements, certain lifestyle changes can make a noticeable difference in managing KP. For example:
Moisturize regularly: Hydrated skin is less likely to develop those rough patches.
Gentle exfoliation: Using mild exfoliants can help slough off dead skin cells without irritating the skin.
Dietary adjustments: Eating a skin healthy diet rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory foods can help nourish your child’s skin from within.
Taking a Whole-Body Approach to Skin Health
Managing KP holistically means looking at your child’s overall health, not just treating the symptoms. By addressing root causes like nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and gut health, you may find that your child’s skin improves significantly. Combining internal treatments with external care, like gentle exfoliation and moisturizing, can lead to smoother, healthier skin in the long run.
Reference
Rupa Health. Integrative dermatology approaches to keratosis pilaris: Specialty testing, supplements, and treatment. Rupa Health. Published June 28, 2023. Accessed October 19, 2024. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/integrative-dermatology-approaches-to-keratosis-pilaris-specialty-testing-supplements-and-treatment.