If you are experiencing a skin condition where you see reddish or pink patches to your skin, and it looks like sandpaper. You may be suffering from what is commonly known as ‘chicken skin’.
These rough patches usually appear on your upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. Your face may suffer in some cases but it’s very uncommon.
Many children and teens get it, and it usually disappears as they get older. This problem is quite common in children, teenagers, and people with dry skin, but it mostly fades out with time.
So What causes chicken skin?
It is caused by the buildup of keratin, a protein that protects your skin from infections. These accumulations sometimes block the opening of hair follicles hence causing the itchy bumps on your skin, but the exact reason for the accumulation is still unknown.
People with dry skin are more prone to chicken skin and the situation may get worse in winters.
Although the condition gets better with time, there are many home remedies that might help in reducing the irritation due to chicken skin.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is not just beneficial for your hair, but it is also one of the best remedies to treat chicken skin. Unique fatty acids present in coconut oil soothe the skin and provide nourishment and the strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of coconut oil help heal skin inflammation.
Simply take 2 tablespoons extra-virgin coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Slightly warm the oil and mix sugar in it. After mixing wait for it to cool down a bit and then apply on the affected area. Finally, rinse with water and repeat the same process the next day.
Apple Cider
Apple cider acts as a chemical exfoliant. It means it removes dead skin cells, including the excess keratin that’s the main reason for the chicken skin.
To use this remedy you will need, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon coconut oil, and 1 tablespoon honey. Mix all ingredients and gently apply. Wait for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse with water.
Tea Tree oil
Tea tree oil acts as a skin purifier hence making it clear and healthy. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil help in treating the rough skin without causing any irritation or infections. Mix, 2 drops of tea tree oil with 10 drops of coconut oil and apply to the affected area.
Aloe Vera
When it comes to home remedies Aloe Vera is the super ingredient that can treat almost every skin issue. Aloe Vera gel does not only moisturize the skin but it has the magical healing abilities to treat different skin anomalies.
Take aloe Vera gel either organic or the one available in stores and apply it to the affected area with the help of a cotton pad. After gently massaging, leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing with water. For quicker results, you can also repeat it twice a day.
Baking Soda
Baking soda removes dead skin cells and reduces skin inflammations. To use it as a home remedy for chicken skin, take 2, 3 tablespoons of baking soda and make a paste by mixing enough water. Apply it to the skin and massage in circular motions for 3 to 5 minutes and then rinse with clean water.
Oatmeal bath
You have probably heard the benefits of the oatmeal bath as it cures skin inflammations and cleanses the skin as well. It has a soothing effect that reduces dryness, skin itchiness, and irritations.
Take a handful of oatmeal powder and mix it with lukewarm water in the bathtub. Soak your body in the water and stay inside the tub for 15 to 20 minutes. Then take a shower, pat dry your skin, and apply a moisturizer.
Olive oil
Olive oil has amazing moisturizing properties that can help in treating any kind of skin inflammation. Its rich vitamin E content decreases the dry patches on the skin. Just take a few drops of olive oil and gently massage on the bumpy area.
Use creams with lactic acid
Lactic acid exfoliates and hydrates your skin hence reducing the redness and irritation. Use creams that contain at least 10% lactic acid and massage it on the affected area for 2 to 3 minutes. You can repeat this twice or thrice a day to constantly keep your skin hydrated and smooth.
Argon oil
It is a non-greasy oil that provides nourishment to your skin, plus its rich vitamin E content helps in maintaining clear, healthy, and glowing skin.
Take a few drops of argan oil and gently massage for 5 to 10 minutes. You can repeat this twice a day to get better results.
Cod liver oil capsules
Cod liver oil is rich in omega 3 fatty acids that have magical effects on your skin and body. Its anti-inflammatory and healing abilities make it one of the best remedies to get rid of the chicken skin.
Take 2 capsules of cod liver oil daily and see the amazing results.
All these remedies can soothe your skin and help in eliminating the symptoms of chicken skin. But in order to get the best results, you will have to take care of your diet as well. If you take a proper diet, your body gets all the required nutrients to maintain its functions, so if you want to take care of your skin issues, focus on your diet. Take fresh fruits and vegetables, Vitamin A, and vitamin E-rich foods like tomatoes, pumpkins, mangoes, or green leafy vegetables. Also include foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids and consume enough meat.
Apart from the remedies, here are a few tips that might help in reducing the itchiness and redness on your skin
- Do not roughly scratch your skin.
- Avoid using hot water for baths, instead, always take a warm water bath because it helps unclog the pores and loosen your skin. Plus reduce your time in the water because it removes your natural body oils and causes dryness.
- Use soaps that contain a high oil or fat content. Â Â Â
- Use a loofah to properly exfoliate your skin. Â Â Â
- Generously apply moisturizing lotions. Lotions that contain lactic acids or other alpha hydroxy acids hydrate your skin and keep it moisturized for a longer period of time. You can also use commonly available glycerin to soften the bumps.
- Avoid tight clothes because they irritate your skin. Use cotton or any other softer fabric.
- Chicken skin is mostly caused by dryness in the environment, so use humidifiers to add moisture into the air in your room or apartment.
Try using any of these remedies and you will see a noticeable difference within a few days to weeks.
