Do you currently have small, white bumps on your upper arms and legs? If the answer is, yes, then you probably have a common skin condition called keratosis pilaris (also known as KP, for short). Keratosis pilaris is a very common problem skin problem that poses no real threat other than the fact that it is unattractive and bothersome.

This skin condition is caused by a buildup of keratin in the hair follicles. Keratin mixes with dead skin cells and results in the characteristic skin bumps. And some people may even be affected by red bumps on their face.

Fortunately, the appearance of keratosis pilaris will subside with age, but you don't have to wait a lifetime to see the end of your KP condition. In fact, this condition reacts quite well to exfoliants, both mechanical and chemical.

Treating KP Bumps on Arms and Legs with Mechanical Exfoliants

The use of scrubs is a great option for two main reasons:

*KP may affect larger areas

*The skin on your face is thinner and more sensitive than the skin on the rest of your body

Commercial scrubs are also a great option because they are effective, cheap and relatively easy to clean up. You can choose from a variety of different scrubs.

Homemade scrubs are inexpensive, but a mess to work with. Although, if you prefer to use natural scrubs then try using these in the shower to minimize any mess.

Some common homemade scrubs include:

*coffee grinds

*sea salt or sugar

*baking soda

*oatmeal

Using Chemical Exfoliants to Treat Keratosis Pilaris

You can easily find keratosis pilaris lotions that contain AHAs, salicylic acid, or even Vitamin A. These types of products are best for the facial area. Keep in mind, however, that these ingredients can cause irritation, so proceed with caution especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.

AHAs or alpha hydroxy acids are a type of scrub that is derived from different types of foods. The most common AHAs are glycolic acid (sugar cane), lactic acid (milk), citric acid (citrus fruits) and mandelic acid (almonds).

AHAs help moderate the formation of the outer most layer of the skin, or stratum corneum, by reducing the cohesion of the skin cells. This means that the stratum corneum can slough off at a higher rate which helps prevent keratin and dead cells from clogging the hair follicles.

Salicylic acid is very special keratosis pilaris treatment that produces a double effect on KP. It acts on the surface of the skin in the same way as AHAs, but unlike AHAs, this ingredient can also penetrate the hair follicle and help regulate the rate of shedding from within.

Vitamin A (also known as retinol or retinoids) can help treat keratosis pilaris by increasing the skin's rate of growth and therefore, decreasing the amount of keratin in the skin. As a result, the surface layer of the skin becomes thinner and pores are less likely to get clogged.