Frequently Asked Questions

Causes

Q: What causes keratosis pilaris?

A: Our skin produces a protein called keratin that constructs 90% of the outer-most layer of the skin, protecting the skin from infections and other harmful environmental stressors. Keratosis pilaris is caused by the overproduction and buildup of keratin, which further plugs pores and blocks the opening of hair follicles. Researchers have yet to uncover exactly what triggers the build up.

Q: Where does keratosis pilaris occur?

A: According to one study; most commonly found on upper arms (92%), followed by thighs (59%) and buttocks (30%)¹

Q: Can keratosis pilaris appear suddenly?

A: Depending on one’s age, current skin issues and time of year, keratosis pilaris can appear suddenly or rapidly progress.

Since keratosis pilaris most commonly occurs in adolescents (usually after age 10), keratosis pilaris can get worse at puberty. Additionally, keratosis pilaris is present more often with eczema or dry skin and often gets worse in cold, dry weather.

Adults can develop keratosis pilaris as well and experience flare ups in tandem with other skin conditions and/or during the winter months.

 

Treatment*

Q: Is there any treatment for keratosis pilaris?

A: While KP is a common genetic skin condition, there is no cure for it. There are, however; highly effective products you can use to significantly diminish the appearance of KP symptoms. Look for products that approach KP treatment with a dual approach, starting with exfoliation and ending with a supremely hydrating lotion that helps retain moisture and prevent future plugged pores.

Additionally, be sure to assess the ingredients that are compiled within each KP treatment. With the right combination of powerful, safe ingredients, multiple KP issues can be addressed at once. After gradually moisturizing your skin to reduce the appearance of KP symptoms, over time you can maintain your skin’s newly soft, hydrated and healthy appearance with consistent use of the right product.

Q: Can keratosis pilaris go away on its own?

A: There’s no denying that keratosis pilaris and its signature red bumps are frustrating, but for anyone living with KP, it’s important to know that this skin condition commonly goes away on it’s own – decreasing or disappearing in your early 30s.

In addition to using an effective KP exfoliant/moisturizing treatment, you can support your skin and make it more comfortable by:

• Not scratching the bumps
• Not rubbing your skin
• Using warm water when bathing, as opposed to hot water
• Using pH balanced soap and washes that have added oil and lipids
• Limiting your skin’s exposure to excess water through long showers or baths
• Adding moisture to the air in your home during cold, dry months with a humidifier

 

Relationship to Pregnancy

Q: Does keratosis pilaris get worse during pregnancy?

A: There is a link between keratosis pilaris and the hormonal changes of pregnancy. Research indicates that the onset or severity of keratosis pilaris can get worse during pregnancy or after giving birth.²

 

Product

Q: How do ReTone’s Keratosis Pilaris products differ from other KP products that are commonly used to manage keratosis pilaris?

A: On multiple levels, ReTone’s Keratosis Pilaris Essentials stands alone, primarily for its combination of ingredients – including Urea, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Hemp Oil, Chamomile and Licorice Root – that reduce KP symptoms such as rough, bumpy skin, redness and irritation.

Urea – a remarkably underutilized substance in skincare- has anti-itch properties and boasts an incredible ability to hold on to water molecules and keep skin moisturized.

Salicylic acid has major bacteria fighting powers and doubles as a superior exfoliant, making it essential in our KP formula to dive deep into pores, hydrate the skin, and significantly loosen and remove dead skin cells.

Lactic acid is a necessary exfoliant in any good KP formula, but when combined with Urea is that much more effective.

Hemp oil, chamomile and licorice root are an added bonus to reduce the appearance of redness and calm irritation.

*Our KP products are always retinoid, paraben and phthalate free.

Q: Do ReTone Keratosis Pilaris Essentials work on all skin tones and types?

A: ReTone’s KP essentials are safe to use on all skin tones and types**. It is most effective for reducing the appearance of KP symptoms in mild to moderate cases.

*Avoid use on the face
*For use of any topical product in children, we recommend you consult your pediatrician

Q: What KP issues do ReTone’s Keratosis Pilaris Essentials address?

A: While there is no cure for keratosis pilaris, our KP essentials effectively tackle the appearance of rough, bumpy skin, redness, irritation, and dryness.

Q: Are ReTone Keratosis Pilaris Essentials safe to use during and after pregnancy?

A: Our KP products are made with your utmost safety in mind, and always retinoid, paraben and phthalate free. But, we always recommend you consult with your physician before using any topical product.

Q: How long do I need to use ReTone Keratosis Pilaris Essentials before I see results?

A: We recommend consistent use for 6-8 weeks to see reduction in the rough, bumpy skin, irritation and dryness.

Resources:

¹ Judge MR, McLean WH, Munro CS. Disorders of keratinization. In: Burns DA, Breathnach SM, Cox NH, Griffiths CE, editors. Rook’s textbook of dermatology. 7th ed. Oxford, England: Blackwell Publishing; 2004. p. 34. (60-34). 62.

² The National Center for Biotechnology Information. Keratosis pilaris in pregnancy: an unrecognized dematosis of pregnancy? Accessed May 6, 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15119494.

*Disclaimer: ReTone® products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or skin condition. With ReTone® 2-Step Keratosis Pilaris Therapy, our intention is to reduce the appearance of KP symptoms, such as rough bumpy skin, redness and irritation.