Top 10 Essential Oils for Keratosis Pilaris And How They Work

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is characterized by small, bumpy rashes on the outer upper arms, thighs, and cheeks. The bumps, skin-colored or red, are often mistaken for eczema or acne but are a separate, non-harmful condition.

Causes of KP

KP results from dead skin cells plugging hair follicles and has a genetic link, often appearing in multiple family members. It is associated with dry skin and eczema and tends to worsen in dry, cold weather. The condition is common among children and teenagers and often improves over time.

Treatment

Treatments for KP focus on alleviating symptoms. Moisturizers can address dry skin, while “peeling” creams unplug follicles to smooth the skin. For redness or itching, mild creams offer relief. In severe cases, laser treatment can reduce redness. Essential oils have shown promise in alleviating KP symptoms. Lily Health highlights nine essential oils effective in treating this condition.

Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties and refreshes the skin. Lavender essential oil moisturizes the skin, making it a choice for KP sufferers. Coconut oil, besides moisturizing, is believed to reduce bumps.

Frankincense Essential Oil is valued for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties in combating KP. Dermatologists often recommend Rosemary and Geranium essential oils for KP treatment.

Peppermint Oil is noted for its antibacterial properties. Patchouli Oil, rich in fatty acids, and Clary Sage Oil, an anti-inflammatory, are also effective against KP. Eucalyptus oil is another option, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

While these oils are beneficial, considering the cost and individual skin reactions is vital. Consulting a dermatologist ensures a tailored and safe treatment plan.

Essential oils provide a practical solution for KP treatment. The key is making informed choices for effective results.

10 Best Essential Oils for Keratosis Pilaris

With so many people struggling to treat keratosis pilaris, it’s no wonder remedies are all over the internet. One treatment option gaining traction in recent years is essential oils. A type of plant oil, essential oils have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. This makes them a powerful weapon against the bumps.

Everyone’s body is different, but some suggested essential oils for keratosis pilaris have helped people with skin conditions like KP. Each essential oil that we recommend here is of the highest quality and purity. The first step in using essential oils for keratosis pilaris is to treat your skin with a good quality moisturiser to help hydrate the skin. Many of the essential oils that dermatologists recommend for dry skin and eczema also benefit keratosis pilaris.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and healing properties, making it effective for managing Keratosis Pilaris (KP). It combats bacteria and aids in reducing inflammation and itching associated with KP.

Properties

Antibacterial: Tea tree oil helps reduce inflammation and prevents infections caused by itching.

Healing: The oil reduces redness and bumpiness, providing relief from KP discomfort.

Application

Topical Application

1. Mix tea tree oil with a carrier oil to dilute it.
2. Apply to affected areas and massage into the skin.
3. Leave for a few hours or overnight and rinse.

In Skincare Products

1. Add tea tree oil to moisturizers or lotions.
2. Apply to the affected areas.

Precautions

Conduct a patch test to ensure no allergic reactions occur before regular application. Apply a small amount to the skin and observe for 24 hours.

Lavender Oil

Keratosis Pilaris treatment with lavender essential has been reported to work well with moisturizing the skin. Used in aromatherapy to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis may benefit KP.

Lavender oil is effective for managing Keratosis Pilaris (KP) due to its moisturizing and soothing properties. It hydrates the skin, reducing the dryness associated with KP, and calms itchiness and irritation.

Using Lavender Oil for KP

1. Mix: Combine a few drops of lavender oil with a tablespoon of a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil.
2. Apply: Gently massage the mixture into clean, dry affected areas twice daily.
3. Consistency: Regular application is essential for noticeable skin improvement.

Before using lavender oil, conduct a patch test to avoid allergic reactions and consider consulting a dermatologist for tailored advice.

Coconut Oil

The coconut oil for keratosis pilaris treatment is gaining popularity with people using it on their skin. Not only does it moisturize the skin, but some claim it helps in the reduction of bumps as well.

Coconut oil is a remedy for Keratosis Pilaris (KP), as highlighted by Lily Health. It moisturizes and is believed to reduce KP bumps.

Coconut Oil for KP

Coconut oil alleviates KP by moisturizing dry skin, thanks to its fatty acids. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and inflammation, resulting in smoother skin.

Application

Apply coconut oil to KP-affected areas after showering to enhance absorption and moisture retention. Regular application improves skin texture and appearance.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil is effective for treating skin conditions. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties contained within the oil may be beneficial for treating keratosis pilaris.

Frankincense Essential Oil is effective in treating Keratosis Pilaris (KP) due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frankincense for KP

Antibacterial:

KP can worsen due to bacterial infections that inflame hair follicles, causing hard, itchy bumps. Frankincense Essential Oil helps eliminate bacteria and reduces inflammation, alleviating KP symptoms.

Anti-Inflammatory:

The oil’s anti-inflammatory compounds soothe the skin, reducing redness and irritation associated with KP.

Usage:

1. Mix: Combine a few drops of Frankincense with a tablespoon of a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
2. Apply: Massage the mixture into clean, dry skin where KP is present.
3. Frequency: Apply twice daily for best results.
4. Consultation: Conduct a patch test or seek professional advice to ensure the oil’s suitability for your skin.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Dermatologists recommend the use of rosemary essential oil to treat keratosis pilaris and skin conditions like eczema.

Rosemary Essential Oil is effective for Keratosis Pilaris (KP) treatment, as highlighted by Lily Health.

Properties:

Anti-Inflammatory:

Rosemary oil reduces inflammation, alleviating redness and irritation caused by KP.

Antibacterial:

The oil’s antibacterial nature prevents infections and promotes skin healing.

Moisturizing:

Rosemary oil aids in managing the dryness and flakiness associated with KP.

Usage:

Dilution:

Mix a few drops of rosemary oil with a carrier oil before application.

Application:

Apply and massage the mixture on affected areas.

Frequency:

Use daily, adjusting frequency based on your skin’s response.

Geranium Oil

As with rosemary, dermatologists recommend geranium as a treatment for people suffering from keratosis pilaris. The fatty acids found in geranium essential oil are beneficial for treating many skin conditions.

Geranium oil is effective for treating Keratosis Pilaris (KP) due to its rich fatty acid content.

Geranium Oil for KP

The oil’s fatty acids nourish and hydrate KP-affected skin, softening bumps and improving texture. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and irritation.

Application

Mix geranium oil with a carrier oil and apply to affected areas, massaging gently. Conduct a patch test to avoid adverse reactions. Apply twice daily for best results, ensuring the oil’s quality and purity.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil is effective for keratosis pilaris treatment. Its potent antibacterial properties kill off the bacteria that cause keratosis pilaris making it a useful topical treatment option.

Peppermint Oil is known for its antibacterial properties, making it a viable option for treating Keratosis Pilaris (KP). It can combat the bacteria associated with KP symptoms, as stated on Lily Health.

Peppermint Oil for KP

Peppermint oil addresses KP by combating bacteria and soothing the skin. Its practical application has offered relief to KP sufferers.

Application

Mix Peppermint Oil with a carrier oil and apply to affected areas to reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.

Patchouli Oil

The fatty acids in patchouli essential oil break down the keratin that causes bumps on the skin and leave smooth, firm skin. This could be a useful treatment option for keratosis pilaris.

Patchouli Oil, rich in fatty acids, effectively breaks down the excess keratin responsible for the hard, itchy bumps seen in Keratosis Pilaris (KP), leading to smoother skin.

Patchouli Oil and Keratosis Pilaris

Patchouli Oil reduces keratin, alleviating the bumps associated with KP and improving skin texture.

Usage

Mix a few drops of Patchouli Oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and apply to affected areas daily for reduced bumps and smoother skin.

Clary Sage Oil

Clary sage essential oil is an anti-inflammatory remedy and has antibacterial properties, making it useful in treating keratosis pilaris.

Clary sage oil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it effective for managing Keratosis Pilaris (KP). It reduces redness and inflammation and prevents infection, reducing irritation caused by KP.

Clary Sage Oil for KP:

• Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and inflammation of KP bumps, providing relief.
• Antibacterial: Prevents infections from scratching, promoting skin health.

Usage:

Mix clary sage oil with a carrier oil and apply directly to affected areas, massaging gently. Regular application reduces KP severity.

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is also a powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that may relieve keratosis pilaris.

Eucalyptus oil, with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is effective for managing Keratosis Pilaris (KP). It reduces skin bacteria and alleviates redness and irritation associated with KP.

Lily Health reports that eucalyptus oil helps relieve KP symptoms by reducing inflammation and preventing bacterial infections.

Usage

Dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil before applying to the affected areas. Conduct a patch test to ensure no adverse reactions. For personalized advice, consult a dermatologist.

Conclusion

There are various oils you can use for treating keratosis pilaris. As with all skin conditions, the best treatment option will depend on your individual needs and constitution. Take our recommendations to heart and consult your dermatologist about any other oils or treatments that may benefit you.

What causes keratosis pilaris?

The cause of keratosis pilaris is unknown. It is more common in those who have dry skin or eczema. It may also be hereditary.

How can essential oils help with KP?

Essential oils aid in managing Keratosis Pilaris (KP) by reducing bumps and moisturizing the skin. Tea tree oil combats bacteria and inflammation, lavender oil soothes and moisturizes, and eucalyptus oil reduces irritation due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Mixing essential oils with a carrier oil for application can help control KP symptoms. Choose oils suitable for your skin type and conduct a patch test to avoid adverse reactions.

Why should you use only natural essential oils?

Natural essential oils are recommended for keratosis pilaris because they’re free of additives and chemicals, ensuring skin safety. These oils are pure and potent, reducing the risk of irritation or adverse reactions. Their effectiveness in managing skin conditions like keratosis pilaris is enhanced by their purity and concentration of beneficial compounds.

Does tea tree oil help keratosis pilaris?

Yes, tea tree oil is effective for keratosis pilaris due to its antibacterial properties that reduce skin bacteria and alleviate irritation. Dilute with a carrier oil and conduct a patch test to ensure no adverse reactions.

Essential Oil Skincare Routine for treating keratosis pilaris

1. Apply a mixture of tea tree and lavender oils to the affected area.
2. Mix coconut oil with frankincense, peppermint, or rosemary essential oils.
3. Add one tablespoon of carrier oil (such as olive oil) to one teaspoon each of lemon and ginger essential oils.
4. Apply a mixture of sandalwood, geranium, and clove essential oils before bedtime.

References

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