Rough, bumpy skin | causes and how to get rid of it

What is rough, bumpy skin?

Rough and bumpy skin is a skin condition characterized by an uneven texture and a non-smooth appearance on the skin's surface. This change in skin texture can appear as small bumps, pimples, rough patches, or coarse areas on the skin. The bumpy appearance can be more noticeable to the touch and visually, making the skin feel uneven.

Causes of Rough and Bumpy Skin

1. Overly hot showers and harsh chemical products

Showers that are too hot can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to excessive dryness. Additionally, using harsh chemical products can disrupt the skin's pH balance, contributing to a bumpy skin texture. Opt for lukewarm showers and use gentle skincare products to avoid irritating your skin.

2. Inadequate skincare routine

An inadequate skincare routine can also be responsible for bumpy skin texture. It's essential to adopt a routine suited to your skin type, including gentle cleansers, exfoliants, and moisturizers. Unsuitable products can clog pores and contribute to the appearance of small bumps.

3. Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris, also known as 'chicken skin,' is a common skin condition characterized by the appearance of small, rough bumps on the skin's surface, resembling red pimples or irritated hair follicles. These small bumps can have a rough texture, which is why the term 'bumpy' is often associated with this condition.

Key characteristics of keratosis pilaris include:

• Appearance: Small or rough bumps typically appear on the arms, thighs, buttocks, or sometimes the face. They can be flesh-colored, reddish, or similar to the surrounding skin tone.
• Texture: The lesions often have a rough texture, comparable to that of poultry skin, hence the common name 'chicken skin.'

It is caused by the buildup of keratin around hair follicles. Keratin is a protein that contributes to the structure of hair, skin, and nails.

Although keratosis pilaris is generally harmless, it can be considered aesthetically bothersome. It is not contagious and is not linked to serious health problems. Genetic factors appear to play a role in its development, and it is sometimes associated with dry skin.

4. Excess sebum and oily skin

Excessive sebum production can make the skin oily and contribute to its rough appearance. Sebaceous glands produce sebum to moisturize the skin, but an excess can clog pores, leading to issues like pimples and a bumpy texture.

5. Dry skin

Dry skin is often the cause of a rough appearance. Moisturizing care is essential to maintain skin hydration and prevent flaking. Choose products rich in hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid to restore skin suppleness.

 

Texture and diagnosis of rough, bumpy skin

The rough texture of the skin can serve as a clue to identify its cause. The main factors leading to discoloration are as follows:

Red: Red, rough patches on the skin inside the elbow, behind the knees, or on other parts of the body can indicate the presence of eczema. Rough and bumpy skin on the back of the arms or thighs is often associated with keratosis pilaris.

White: White, rough skin on the knees and elbows is generally due to intense skin dryness. When it appears on the elbows, knees, face, or elsewhere, red skin covered with white scales can be a sign of psoriasis.

Brown: A dark, rough patch on the skin of the face, arms, or legs can result from actinic keratosis due to excessive sun exposure.

Any unusual area of rough skin that does not respond to moisturizing should be examined by a dermatologist. They can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

 

How to regain smooth skin?

1. Develop a Suitable Skincare Routine

Identify your skin type and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. Use gentle cleansers, regular exfoliants to remove dead skin cells, and moisturizers suited to your skin type.

2. Avoid Overly Hot Showers

Choose lukewarm showers to protect your skin's natural oils. Limit your shower time and avoid using too many harsh chemical products.

3. Use Suitable Products

Opt for skincare products free from harsh chemicals. Choose blemish-fighting creams with ingredients like salicylic acid to combat breakouts while maintaining your skin's balance.

4. Moisturize Regularly

Moisturizing treatments are crucial for maintaining skin hydration. Choose non-comedogenic formulas to avoid clogging pores.

5. Exfoliate with Caution

Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells, but overdoing it can worsen roughness. Exfoliate once or twice a week to keep your skin smooth.

6. Use the Right Ingredients

To treat rough or bumpy skin, it's essential to use skincare products with specific ingredients that target the underlying causes of this condition. Here are some beneficial ingredients for treating rough skin:

• Exfoliating Acids

Salicylic Acid: This ingredient is effective for deep exfoliation, unclogging pores, and treating breakouts. It is especially useful for acne-prone skin.

Glycolic Acid: This alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliates the skin's top layer, promoting cell renewal and improving skin texture.

Lactic Acid: This AHA is gentle and hydrating, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve skin softness.

• Intensive Moisturizers

Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful moisturizer that draws water into the skin, promoting deep hydration and reducing roughness.

Glycerin: An effective moisturizing agent that helps maintain the skin's moisture balance.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help brighten the skin, reduce imperfections, and stimulate collagen production for a smoother skin texture.

Allantoin: A soothing ingredient that promotes cell regeneration, helping to soften the skin.

Beta-Glucan: Known for its soothing properties, beta-glucan can help reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This ingredient can help strengthen the skin's barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture.

Aloe Vera: Soothing and hydrating, Aloe Vera can help calm irritated skin and promote healing.

Gentle Physical Exfoliants: Fine particles like sugar or oats can be used to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead surface cells.

7. Consult a Skin Professional

If your rough skin persists despite appropriate care, consult a dermatologist. They can identify the underlying cause and recommend a suitable treatment, such as chemical peels or specific treatments.

Conclusion

Granular rough skin can be a source of physical and emotional discomfort, but with a suitable skincare routine and healthy lifestyle choices, it's possible to regain smooth and radiant skin. Pay attention to your skin's specific needs, avoid external aggressors, and don't hesitate to consult a skin professional for personalized advice. By taking proper care of your skin, you can reveal a soft and radiant texture, contributing to renewed self-confidence.

 

Sources

1. Baumann, L. (2009) Cosmetic Dermatology: Principles and Practice (pp.83-91). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical
2. Baumann, L. (2015) Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients (pp.77-79). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical
3. Pathogenesis and therapy of psoriasis. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6490912_Lowes_MA_Bowcock_AM_Krueger_JGPathogenesis_and_therapy_of_psoriasis_Nature_445866-873
4. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/actinic-keratosis
5. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/6490912_Lowes_MA_Bowcock_AM_Krueger_JGPathogenesis_and_therapy_of_psoriasis_Nature_445866-873
6. T. Ruzicka, B. Przybilla, J. Ring (2006) Handbook of Atopic Eczema; 2nd edition; Springer