What exactly is Keratosis Pilaris?

Many experts believe that Keratosis Pilaris is a chronic, genetic skin condition.  It appears most often on the upper arms (both on the back and outer areas), but also occurs on the trunk of the body, thighs, and buttocks.  In severe cases it can be found on the lower arms, legs, and on the face (which can be confused with acne)… basically, it can be found anywhere on the body except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.  Yikes.

KP typically consists of scattered, rough patches on the skin with 10-100 very small bumps (similar in appearance to goose bumps).  Dryness and redness often accompany the patchy, bumpy areas.            

What causes it?

Keratosis Pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin (a protein and key structural agent of the skin, hair, and nails) around the hair follicle.  If a hard cap is formed over the follicle, resulting in coiling the hair inside, it can lead to an ingrown hair.  “Picking” or scratching bumps/hard caps can result in scarring.  So, while treatment and exfoliation options are recommended, care and caution should always be considered.    

Normally, the body’s natural exfoliation process sloughs away dead skin cells and debris.  In the case of Keratosis Pilaris, an excess of keratin is not only being formed, it is not being sloughed off in a timely fashion.  Remaining on the skin, this keratin surrounds and, ultimately, clogs the follicles.  The end result is bumpy, rough, dry skin. 

What can be done?

Numerous options are available for KP sufferers, from over-the-counter creams and lotions to professional treatments and prescription products.  Though varying degrees of success and satisfaction have been reported among individuals, there seem to be some general rules of thumb:

• Consistency is key, there is no overnight cure- be patient and prepared to dedicate time and effort to seeing results.

• Exfoliate regularly: try a combination of mechanical (scrub) and chemical (hydroxy acids) exfoliants.  Lactic acid and salicylic acid are great choices; lactic acid is naturally hydrating and less irritating (versus other AHAs) and salicylic acid (if a 2% or less concentration) offers both exfoliation and anti-inflammatory benefits.  In addition to exfoliating agents, look for products that also contain vitamins, like A, C, and E.

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  If your skin is dehydrated, KP seems to be a little more persistent.  Drink water and moisturize regularly.  Make sure you don’t confuse dehydrated skin with dry skin- dehydrated skin lacks water, dry skin lacks oil.  Therefore, a light-to-medium weight moisturizer can be perfect, focus on humectant ingredients (like hyaluronic acid) not necessarily an oil-based formulation.

• Soothe & protect: if redness is present, it seems natural to use soothing agents (like botanicals) to calm it down.  Also, make sure that your skin is protected with at least an SPF 15 on a daily basis.  Sun damage can lead to additional conditions and issues- let’s try to limit these whenever possible!

When you join us on Thursday, July 28^th from 12:00pm-4:00pm for our Summer Skin Therapy Event, you’ll receive a professional-strength exfoliation treatment and get a one-on-one consultation with a skin care expert … 

It’s the perfect way to start saying “Bye-Bye” to your Bumpy Arms this summer!  Call us at 916.481.7994 to reserve your spot!  

Be featured in our next RADIO AD (with a CLIENT TESTIMONIAL) and as a bonus you’ll receive a Fabulous THANK YOU GIFT! 

Here’s the skinny:

on TUESDAY, JUNE 28th

from 11:00am to 6:00pm

We’ll be recording Client Testimonials (Fan Reviews) to be featured in our Summer Radio Spots

To top it off, all participants will receive a “Thank You” Gift

Call 916.481.7994 to reserve your space!

We ask that you anticipate spending 20-30 minutes with us to record your testimonial. 

We hope to see (and HEAR from) YOU!

Yes, 3 Simple Steps is all it takes!  Join us for this exclusive event on Monday, June 27th from 11:00am to 5:00pm.  

This is your chance to get advice from a jane iredale mineral makeup expert, who will:

• Give you a custom color match (choosing your perfect shade based on your skin type, tone, and your personal preference)

• Teach you expert application techniques (including the best applicator to use)

• Put it all together with finishing and setting (this final touch helps you get all-day coverage)

Call 916.481.7994 to reserve your appointment! 

A $15.00 reservation fee is required and will be applied toward any jane iredale product purchased at event.

Flawless Face
Don’t get caught in front of a camera without these essential Smashbox cosmetics! Create flawless-looking skin by applying Photo Finish Foundation Primer followed by Camera Ready Foundation. Blend Camera Ready Concealer under eyes, nose and over any uneven areas using Concealer Brush #4. Add soft liminosity by dusting Fusion Soft Lights in Baked Starburst across forehead, down bridge of nose, and under cheekbones using Face & Cheek Brush #2. Sweep Blush Rush in Bare over cheeks using Blush Brush #16 for a hint of color.

Eye-Catching Eyes
Apply Photo Finish Lid Primer to smooth and perfect lids. Turn heads with a subtle wash of Eye shadow in Champagne – use Crease Brush #10 for a disffused effect. Sweep Jet Set Waterproof Liner in Midnight Black along upper lashline and along the lower inner rim using Arced Liner Brush #21. An encore of Lash DNA Mascara inJet lack completes the eyes.

Luscious Red Lips
For a defined red lip that stays in place all night, first line lips with Doubletake Lip Color in Cranberry, then apply a geerous coat of Photo Finish Lipstick in Legendary using a lip brush.

Find all the essential Smashbox Cosmetics at Total Beauty Experience!

Visit Total Beauty Experience Saturday, March 13 between noon and 2 p.m. for an exclusive demonstration of the amazing GHD Hair Straightener. A GHD consultant will be visiting us to demonstrate how to get different hair styles, from curls to flicks, with this all-in-one styling tool.

Click here for more details.