Decode The Flare-Ups

Something not quite right? Do not panic, here is what you need to know.

BUTT BUMPS

Please Explain? Folliculitis-a fancy name for inflamed hair follicles. These pimple-like bumps are fuelled by sweat, friction, and tight clothes that seal in bacteria or cause irritation. Make 'em mad enough and they can even turn into cysts. Fun!

Cool, Now What?

Once a day, hop in the shower and give your bum a rub-down with a cleanser spiked with probiotics and a little tea tree to neutralise bump-causing bacteria. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before washing it off, then spot-treat painful areas with a targeted benzoyl peroxide gel.

KERATOSIS PILARIS (KP)

Please Explain?

Sometimes referred to as 'chicken skin', a condition caused by keratin (one of the main proteins in your skin) building up in your hair follicles. These rough little bumps are very common.

Cool, Now What?

KP is genetic and there is no cure (ugh), but you can help dissolve bumps by massaging your arms with a lactic- or glycolic acid-based lotion three times a week, then slathering on a rich moisturizer, whenever you get out of the shower. Oh, and please stop picking it will only make things worse.

BACNE

Please Explain?

Basically, classic blemishes, are often from hormones or hair products. Or if you live in moisture-trapping athleisure wear, it could be fungal acne-itchy, red or pus-filled bumps caused by an overgrowth of yeast in your hair follicles (do not a freak, everyone's skin has yeast-sweaty environments that causes more of it to grow).

Cool, Now What?