Claire Thompson
Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, is a common skin condition that causes patches of rough bumps to appear on the skin. These bumps are caused by a buildup of keratin, a hair protein, in the pores, resulting in plugged hair follicles. While chicken skin can occur anywhere on the body where hair follicles exist, it is particularly common on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks, buttocks, forearms, and lower legs. It can also affect the underarms, where the skin is thin and sensitive. To treat chicken skin in the underarms, a consistent and patient approach is required, incorporating gentle exfoliation, moisturization, and the use of natural ingredients to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scientific term | Keratosis Pilaris |
| Cause | Buildup of keratin, a hair protein, in the pores |
| Appearance | Tiny, rough bumps that resemble goosebumps or the skin of a plucked chicken |
| Skin type | Common in people with fair skin |
| Treatment | Exfoliation, moisturizers, warm baths, hydrating lotions, laser treatment |
| Exfoliation techniques | Washcloth, mild scrub, sea salt, honey, natural oils, chemical exfoliants |
| Moisturizers | Body lotions or creams, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free |
| Laser treatment | IPL (intense pulsed light), CO2 fractional laser |
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What You'll Learn
Exfoliate with a washcloth or mild scrub
Exfoliating with a washcloth or a mild scrub is a great way to prevent and treat chicken skin. The skin in your underarms is thin and sensitive, so it's important to be gentle when exfoliating. Dermatologist Anna Palabyab-Rufino recommends using a washcloth or a mild scrub to lightly scrub your armpits in one direction. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can irritate the skin and cause darkening.
Exfoliating helps to unclog hair follicles by removing dead skin cells and deodorant residue, reducing inflammation in your underarms. It's best to exfoliate at least once a week, but not on the same day you shave, to avoid further irritation.
You can also make your own exfoliating scrub at home using natural ingredients like sea salt, sugar, or coffee grounds. For example, mix two teaspoons of sea salt with four teaspoons of raw honey, which has moisturising properties and is a natural source of skin-boosting nutrients and acids. Apply the mixture to your underarms, gently rubbing it into the skin, then rinse with warm water after 15 minutes.
If you prefer a simpler approach, you can use a mild, fragrance-free, moisturising soap to wash your underarms. Remember, the skin in this area is thin and sensitive, so always use products with caution and seek advice from a dermatologist if needed.
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Use a mild, fragrance-free moisturising soap
Using a mild, fragrance-free moisturising soap is a great way to prevent and treat chicken skin in your underarms. The skin in your underarms is thin and very sensitive, so using a harsh soap can irritate your skin, strip it of its natural moisture, and worsen chicken skin.
To avoid this, opt for a mild, fragrance-free soap that cleanses without causing irritation. Such soaps are formulated to be gentle on the skin, and they effectively cleanse the area without stripping away natural oils or causing further dryness.
When choosing a soap, look for natural, non-toxic, and mild options. One popular choice is Castile soap, which is traditionally made with olive oil. You can also find soaps with ingredients like retinol and glycolic acid, which help peel off the upper layers of the skin without scrubbing. These ingredients can be particularly effective in preventing and treating chicken skin, but always exercise caution and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns.
In addition to using a mild, fragrance-free moisturising soap, it's important to be mindful of other aspects of your skincare routine. For example, when shaving your underarms, use a mild shaving gel to reduce friction and avoid irritating the skin further.
By incorporating a mild, fragrance-free moisturising soap into your skincare routine and being mindful of other irritants, you can effectively prevent and treat chicken skin in your underarms.
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Try natural exfoliators like sea salt
Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, is a common skin condition that causes patches of rough bumps to appear on the skin. These bumps are caused by a buildup of the hair protein keratin, which clogs pores and blocks hair follicles. While there is no cure for this condition, it can be treated with home remedies such as exfoliation and moisturization.
One natural exfoliator that can be used to treat chicken skin is sea salt. Sea salt is a mineral-rich natural exfoliator that can gently sweep away dead skin cells and boost circulation, leaving skin looking fresher and clearer. To use sea salt as an exfoliator, create a mixture by adding your choice of oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, to a base of sea salt. The oil will act as a carrier, providing additional benefits such as moisturization and antibacterial properties. You can also add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender oil, to boost the aroma and provide additional benefits.
Once you have your sea salt mixture, it is important to prepare your skin before exfoliating. Ensure your underarms are damp, either by standing in the shower or taking a bath. Avoid exfoliating on broken or damaged skin. Begin by scooping a small amount of the sea salt scrub and cupping it in your hands to warm the mixture and release its aroma. Then, apply the scrub to your underarms using gentle, circular motions.
After exfoliating, be sure to rinse your underarms thoroughly with warm water. You can then pat your skin dry and apply a moisturiser to lock in moisture and prevent skin dryness. It is recommended to exfoliate 1-2 times per week, depending on your skin type.
In addition to sea salt, there are other natural exfoliators that can be used to treat chicken skin. For example, coffee grounds can be mixed with an antibacterial carrier oil to create an effective and gentle exfoliator for the underarms. Alternatively, you can use Epsom salt, which is especially suitable for sensitive or dry skin types.
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Avoid abrasive apparatus and harsh soaps
When it comes to treating chicken skin, it is important to be cautious about the products you use. While exfoliation is recommended, it is crucial to avoid harsh scrubbing tools and opt for gentler alternatives.
Dr. McNamara advises against using abrasive apparatus on the skin, except for on the soles of the feet for callus removal. Instead of an exfoliating sponge, loofah, gloves, or brush, consider using a washcloth or a mild scrub to gently exfoliate the skin. Dermatologist Anna Palabyab-Rufino recommends exfoliating in one direction and avoiding vigorous scrubbing to prevent irritation and darkening of the skin.
Similarly, when it comes to cleansing the skin, it is best to avoid harsh soaps. The skin in the underarms is thin and sensitive, and harsh soaps can irritate the skin, strip it of its natural moisture, and worsen chicken skin. Opt for mild, fragrance-free soaps that cleanse without causing irritation. Natural, non-toxic, and mild soaps are ideal for cleansing sensitive areas without triggering redness and buildup.
In addition to gentle exfoliation and cleansing, keeping the skin well-hydrated is crucial. Choose a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free moisturiser and apply it generously after exfoliating or bathing. This will help to soothe and protect the skin, reducing the appearance of chicken skin.
By avoiding abrasive tools and harsh soaps, and instead adopting a gentle and hydrating skincare routine, you can effectively treat chicken skin and improve the texture and appearance of your underarms.
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Use a mild shaving gel to reduce friction
Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, is a common skin condition that causes patches of rough bumps to appear on the skin. These bumps are caused by a buildup of the hair protein keratin, which clogs pores and blocks hair follicles. While the condition typically clears up by itself over time, it can be treated at home with regular exfoliation and moisturization.
One way to reduce the appearance of chicken skin is to use a mild shaving gel. Shaving gels create a thin layer of protection between the blade and the skin, reducing friction and minimising the risk of redness, razor burn, and irritation. They also help to keep the skin moisturised, making it easier to cut the hair without harming the skin. When shaving, it is important to use a clean, sharp blade and to shave in the direction of hair growth to further reduce irritation.
It is recommended to avoid shaving with a dull or blunt blade, as this can result in an uneven shave or even remove skin along with the hair. Additionally, mentholated shaving gels should be used with caution, as menthol can sometimes cause a slight reaction, resulting in red blotches.
When dealing with chicken skin, it is important to note that the skin in the affected areas is often thinner and more sensitive. Therefore, it is recommended to use mild, fragrance-free, moisturising soaps and to exercise caution when using products containing retinol and glycolic acid, which can help prevent chicken skin.
Overall, using a mild shaving gel can be an effective way to reduce friction and irritation when shaving areas affected by chicken skin, but it should be combined with other treatments and performed with care to achieve the best results.
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