How You Can Treat Keratosis Pilaris On Your Child's Skin

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If your child has itchy white bumps on the backs of their arms, on the thighs, or on the cheeks, it may be keratosis pilaris. This is a skin condition in which dry skin cells form around hair follicles and clog the pores, resulting in these itchy white bumps. These bumps can worsen if they aren't treated, or they may simply go away on their own as your child ages. If these bumps are irritating your child, there are things you can do to help treat this condition at home. Read on for helpful information.

Slough Off Dead Skin Cells

Slough off the dead skin cells on your child's skin using a loofah or a skin brush. Use either of these along with a gentle body wash to gently slough off the dead skin cells. Don't be too rough or try to scrub too hard, as you can damage the skin instead and cause further irritation. You can use this daily on your child to help treat this condition. Be sure to use a gentle wash that is made for younger children or for sensitive skin.

Apply Moisturizer

Apply a daily moisturizer to your child's skin in the areas where your child has the keratosis pilaris. Apply the moisturizer daily, rubbing it in to soothe dry skin and to prevent dry skin cells from causing this condition again. You need to apply moisturizer after giving your child a bath, immediately when they get out of the bath when their skin is still moist to help hold in the moisture. Look for a thicker moisturizer that isn't too watery.

Keep Your Child Hydrated

Keratosis pilaris is caused by dry skin, but if your child isn't hydrated enough, it can lead to dry skin. Be sure your child is getting enough water to stay hydrated and is eating a healthy diet. If you notice your child's skin gets irritated with a certain type of food, get your child to the dermatologist for allergy testing to rule out food allergies, or other types of allergies.

If your child has keratosis pilaris and you have tried to treat it at home with the tips above, and it still is not going away, talk to the dermatologist about what else can be done to treat this condition. Certain medicated moisturizers or body/face washes may need to be used to help treat the condition and to heal your child's skin. Make an appointment with the pediatric dermatologist today.

For more information on pediatric dermatology, contact a professional near you.

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