Rough, granular skin | Causes and how to get rid of them

What is rough, granular skin?

Rough, granular skin is a skin condition characterized by an irregular texture and a non-smooth appearance of the skin surface. This alteration in skin texture may manifest itself as small protuberances, pimples, roughness or rough patches on the skin. Thegranular appearance may be more pronounced to the touch and visually, giving the skin an irregular feel.

Causes of Rough Granular Skin

1. Hot showers and aggressive chemicals

Showers that are too hot can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to excessive dryness. What's more, the use of harsh chemicals can upset the skin's pH balance, contributing to a gritty appearance. Opt for lukewarm showers and use gentle skin care products to avoid irritating your skin.

2. Inadequate care routine

An inadequate skincare routine can also be responsible for grainy 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 pimples.

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 texture, resembling red pimples or irritated hair follicles. These small bumps can have a rough texture, hence the term "granular" often associated with this condition.

The main characteristics of keratosis pilaris include:

• Appearance: Small bumps or rough lumps usually appear on the arms, thighs, buttocks or sometimes the face. They may be flesh-colored, reddish or similar to the surrounding skin color.
• Texture: Lesions often have a rough texture, comparable to that of poultry skin, hence the common name "chicken skin".

It is caused by the accumulation of keratin around the 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 perceived as aesthetically embarrassing. It is not contagious and is not associated with 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 skin oily and contribute to its rough appearance. The sebaceous glands produce sebum to moisturize the skin, but too much can clog pores, leading to problems such as pimples and a grainy texture.

5. Dry skin

Dry skin is often the cause ofroughness. Moisturizers are essential to keep skin hydrated and prevent flaking. Choose products rich in moisturizing agents such as hyaluronic acid to restore skin suppleness.

 

Texture and diagnosis of rough granular skin

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

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

White: Rough, white skin on knees and elbows is usually 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 doesn't respond to moisturizing should be examined by a dermatologist. He or she will be able to diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

 

How do I get smooth skin ?

1. Develop an Adapted Care Routine

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

2. Avoid overheated showers

Opt for lukewarm showers to preserve your skin's natural oils. Limit the time spent in the shower and avoid excessive use of harsh chemicals.

3. Use Adapted Products

Choose skincare products without harsh chemicals. Choose anti-blemish creams containing ingredients such as salicylic acid to fight pimples while preserving the skin's balance.

4. Moisturize Regularly

Moisturizers are crucial to keeping skin hydrated. Opt for non-comedogenic formulations to avoid clogging pores.

5. Exfoliate with care

Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells, but too much can aggravate roughness. Exfoliate once or twice a week to maintain smooth skin.

6. Use the right ingredients

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

• Exfoliating acids

Salicylic acid This ingredient is effective for deep exfoliation, unclogging pores and treating pimples. It is particularly useful for acne-prone skin.

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

Lactic acid: This AHA is gentle and moisturizing, 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 skin, reduce imperfections and stimulate collagen production for smoother skin texture.

Allantoin: A soothing ingredient that promotes cell regeneration, helping to soften 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 barrier, reduce inflammation and improve skin texture.

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

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

7. Consult a Skin Care 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

Rough, grainy skin can be a source of physical and emotional discomfort, but with the right skincare routine and healthy lifestyle choices, it's possible to regain smooth, radiant skin. Be attentive to your skin's specific needs, avoid external aggressions, and don't hesitate to consult a skin care professional for personalized advice. By taking proper care of your skin, you can reveal a soft, 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