Evidence-Based Guidance for Your Skin's Journey

Keratosis pilaris, often called 'chicken skin' or 'strawberry skin', is a common cosmetic concern. While it can be treatment-resistant, there are ways to manage its appearance and improve skin texture.

This is my four-step approach to managing keratosis pilaris. It involves gentle exfoliation with AHAs or BHAs, proper shaving technique, consistent moisturizing, and considering in-office procedures for more significant improvement.

For persistent keratosis pilaris, I may recommend in-office treatments. Procedures like chemical peels, laser hair reduction, and microdermabrasion can help smooth the bumps and reduce associated redness.

During winter, it's best to avoid long, hot showers that can strip your skin of moisture. I recommend brief, lukewarm showers followed immediately by applying a rich moisturizer to damp skin to lock in hydration.

In colder months, I suggest swapping foaming face washes for a creamy or balm cleanser. These gentle formulations effectively cleanse the skin without disrupting the natural barrier, preventing dryness and irritation.

Layering skincare products with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide is key during winter. This approach helps soothe inflammation, restore hydration, and strengthen the skin's protective barrier.

For dry, sensitive, or winter skin, a gentle cleanser is essential. Here are some of my go-to recommendations that are hydrating and non-foaming, perfect for use with prescription retinoids or during cold weather.

It's a myth that acne can be cured permanently. I encourage patients to think of it like a chronic condition that can be controlled with medication and maintained with a good skincare regimen and healthy lifestyle.

Not all acne is the same, and treatment must be personalized. While mild cases might respond to over-the-counter products, more severe acne requires a professional diagnosis and prescription-strength treatment plan.