Does glycolic acid reduce keratosis pilaris?

Author: Prof. Silas Boyer Sr.  |  Last update: Wednesday, May 14, 2025

This study proved that a high concentration of glycolic acid was a safe and efficacious treatment for keratosis pilaris, and that improvement was achieved rapidly.

Can glycolic acid get rid of keratosis pilaris?

11 BEST CLEANSING/MOISTURIZING SET TO TREAT KERATOSIS PILARIS. Dr. Gohara recommends this duo, which includes an exfoliating body wash to slough off dead skin cells and a soothing body lotion, both with glycolic acid. “The glycolic acid breaks down the keratin spikes that cause the bumps,” she explains.

Which acid is best for keratosis pilaris?

Creams containing alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid or urea help loosen and remove dead skin cells. They also moisturize and soften dry skin.

What is the fastest way to get rid of keratosis pilaris?

Combining skin exfoliation, moisturizers, and laser treatments is the fastest way to get rid of keratosis pilaris. Sometimes, it is not an easy fix, and people may need to consistently use treatments for at least 4–6 weeks before seeing results.

What's better for KP, glycolic or salicylic?

For these types of skin condition, glycolic acid is better than salicylic acid, because these conditions don't need deeper exfoliation. Keratosis pilaris can be understood as a condition in which thick skin tissues that can occur anywhere on the body.

KERATOSIS PILARIS: Q&A WITH A DERMATOLOGIST| Dr Dray

Should you exfoliate KP everyday?

Q: How often should I exfoliate if I have keratosis pilaris? A: Exfoliating 2-3 times per week is generally recommended for treating keratosis pilaris. This frequency helps remove dead skin cells and keratin buildup without over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin.

Can I use glycolic acid every day?

Everyday usage is acceptable while using a rinse-off product, like a cleanser with glycolic acid. But, while using a leave-on glycolic acid product (such as a serum, gel, cream, mask, or peel), one should only apply it one to three times per week.

What is the root cause of keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is caused by the buildup of keratin — a hard protein that protects skin from harmful substances and infection. The keratin blocks the opening of hair follicles, causing patches of rough, bumpy skin. It's not clear why keratin builds up in people with keratosis pilaris.

What not to use on keratosis pilaris?

Avoid scrubbing your skin, which tends to irritate the skin and worsen keratosis pilaris. Apply a product called a keratolytic. After exfoliating, apply this skin care product. It, too, helps remove the excessive buildup of dead skin cells.

Is there a permanent solution to keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is commonly referred to as a harmless skin condition that leads to dry, rough patches and tiny bumps. They typically appear on the thighs, upper arms, cheeks, or buttocks. These bumps do not tend to itch or hurt. This skin disorder cannot be cured or prevented.

What can be mistaken for keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris may resemble the following uncommon skin conditions:
  • Lichen spinulosus.
  • Pityriasis rubra pilaris.
  • Ulerythema ophryogenes (ulerythema)
  • Ichthyosis vulgaris.
  • Eruptive vellus hair cysts.
  • Erythromelanosis follicularis faciei et colli.
  • Keratosis follicularis (Darier disease)
  • Kyrle disease.

How to dissolve keratin plugs?

How can I treat keratin plugs?
  1. Gently exfoliate your skin. Scrub your skin gently using a washcloth, sponge or soft facial brush. ...
  2. Keep your skin hydrated. Moisturize regularly with a lotion or cream that's noncomedogenic, which means it won't clog your pores. ...
  3. Take care of your skin.

What causes too much keratin in skin?

Genes may cause the skin to create the extra keratin. It's linked to eczema or atopic dermatitis.

Can I use glycolic acid everyday on my arms?

However, as with all chemical exfoliants, using glycolic acid too frequently, at too high a concentration, or incorrectly can result in skin irritation or damage. In this article, we discuss glycolic acid in detail, including its properties, benefits for the skin, and potential side effects.

Can glycolic acid get rid of strawberry arms?

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is commonly used in skincare products to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture. It is particularly effective for people with strawberry skin because it can help reduce the appearance of open pores and prevent acne and blackheads.

What deficiency causes keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris Causes

It's usually worse in the winter months when there's less moisture in the air and then may clear up in the summer. It often affects people with certain skin conditions, including eczema (also called atopic dermatitis). Some evidence suggests it's linked to a vitamin A deficiency.

What flares up keratosis pilaris?

With keratosis pilaris, there is a build-up of keratin in the skin. This is a hard protein that is perfectly normal within the skin. But too much can block the hair follicles, leading to keratosis pilaris. We do know that it tends to be worse when the weather is drier and there is less humidity.

Is keratosis pilaris related to gut health?

Keratosis pilaris.

Two gut health issues— vitamin A deficiency and malabsorption of nutrients—are two possible causes of this skin condition.

What autoimmune disease causes keratosis pilaris?

The exact cause of keratosis pilaris is not known, but heredity often plays a role. Also, people with atopic dermatitis and seasonal allergies are more likely to have keratosis pilaris. However, keratosis pilaris does not seem to be a hypersensitivity or immune system disorder.

Is CeraVe good for keratosis pilaris?

2 The CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser is a gentle exfoliating cleanser that is suitable for skin prone to keratosis pilaris on the face and body. Containing salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid , and 3 essential ceramides, the CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser helps to maintain moisture and strengthen the skin's barrier.

What not to mix with glycolic acid?

What NOT to mix with Glycolic Acid. Retinol, other AHAs/BHAs, Vitamin C: Using these ingredients alongside Glycolic Acid in the same routine could irritate the skin. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.

How to know if glycolic acid is working?

Signs that glycolic acid is working include smoother skin texture, fewer breakouts, and a more even skin tone. Some people may also notice a light tingling sensation on application, which is normal.

Can I leave glycolic acid on overnight?

If you do not face any skin reaction or irritation and want quick results, you can use 10% glycolic acid products 5 days a week. You can leave it on your face overnight and let it absorb into your skin. Wash it out the next day with water.

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