You've just found the dress of your dreams! It hugs your curves, glistens with every step you take, creates the 'Young & The Restless' sparkley blur effect when you walk into a room, and it's strapless.
STRAPLESS. Not so big a deal, except for the unsightly, uncomfortable patch of dryness and discoloration on the back of your arms. *sad face*
STRAPLESS. Not so big a deal, except for the unsightly, uncomfortable patch of dryness and discoloration on the back of your arms. *sad face*
In sterile med terms, it's called Kerotosis Pilaris... or what we call 'Chicken Skin'. If you have keratosis pilaris, you are not alone. Worldwide, keratosis pilaris affects an estimated 40 to 50% of the adult population and approximately 50 to 80% of all adolescents. A genetic complication that forms build up of keratin around hair follicles on the skin.
KP tends to be worse during the winter months or other times of low humidity when the skin dries out. It may also occur and/or worsen among pregnant women or show up after childbirth. Although incurable, it is absolutely treatable!
If you've just picked out your dress, your wedding date is most likely one year away. The perfect amount of time to treat, and yes -- it does take time.
There are a few Do's & Don'ts when treating KP:
1) While you may be tempted to scratch the bumps away, STOP! The aggravation only stimulates more build up of keratin, as well as creates scars that you see as discoloration.
2) Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Although skin has a saturation point, its always best to have more than less. The excess acts as a barrier.
3) Gently exfoliate in the shower. The steam and warm water will soften the skin and allow for effective sloughing. Use a soft sponge, or loofah. Nothing too abrasive. You don't want to tear at the skin, simply 'wipe' away dead cells on the surface.
4) Steer clear of moisturizers, lotions or emollients that are heavy in fragrance. The perfume is often alcohol based which is counter-effective for your KP. Think 'Perfume--> Dries Fast' ...which is the opposite effect you want for your skin.
5) Look for moisturizers that are jojoba oil based. Jojoba oil is the closest natural oil to that of our own skin. It absorbs into the skin at a moderate rate - slowly feeding skin without over-saturating, yet quick enough that it does not get wiped away before being effective.
Deux Luxe Favorites for Moisturizing:1) Aveda Beautifying Composition - Jojoba oil based, natural and organic. The light oil is a combination of several natural ingredients (including rosemary and bergamot) that nurtures skin and hair and promotes a 'Calming' effect.
2) NeoStrata Ultra Smoothing Lotion AHA 10 - A silky-smooth lotion that contains 10% AHA (glycolic acid). Glycolic Acid is a gentle exfoliant that sloughs skin without skin abrasion. Best to use alternately with another gentle moisturizer. Also fantastic for dark elbows and knees!
3) Dr.Brandt Pore Effect - Powerful and clarifying, this formula stimulates cellular turnover, calms redness and irritation and sweeps away blockage. Dr.Brandt recommends this product specifically for keratosis pilaris.
Once the skin has regained the proper amount of moisture, discoloration will subside and bumps will begin to soften giving the skin a smoother, healthier appearance. And then you can shed that shawl! I never liked the look of them as a bridal accessory anyways! ;)
Until next time Deux Luxe Darlings,
Kiss kiss, Hug hug!
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