Keratosis Pilaris Treatments

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Keratosis pilaris, sometimes called "chicken skin," causes small, rough bumps on the skin, most often on the arms, thighs, or back. It happens when dead skin cells build up around hair follicles, and while it's a long-term condition that tends to come and go rather than disappear for good, the right combination of exfoliation and hydration can help manage the bumps and improve how skin looks and feels over time. If your skin is very irritated, inflamed, or the bumps change suddenly, it's worth checking with a dermatologist rather than relying on over-the-counter products alone.

Exfoliating cleansers and scrubs for KP

Chemical exfoliants tend to work better on KP than physical scrubs alone, since they help clear the built-up skin cells inside the follicle rather than just buffing the surface. The First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub combines both chemical and physical exfoliation in one step, and comes in a fresh strawberry-scented version too. The CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser is a gentler daily option, formulated with salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and ceramides for bumpy, blemish-prone skin.

Creams and moisturisers for smoother-feeling skin

Following up with a hydrating, exfoliating cream helps keep skin feeling smooth between washes. The CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream pairs the same salicylic acid formula with a heavier moisturising base, which suits drier skin types or cooler months. The Skinstitut Glycolic Scrub 14% is a stronger option for anyone who's built up some tolerance to exfoliating acids and wants a more noticeable result.

Body scrubs and gentle exfoliation

A physical scrub used alongside a chemical exfoliant can help remove surface dead skin, though it's worth not overdoing it, since over-exfoliating can irritate already-sensitive KP-prone skin. The Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Scrub uses pumice and bamboo stem to gently slough away dead skin cells, and pairing it with a body brush like the Black Chicken Remedies Garshana Dry Body Brush can help with circulation too. If your skin reacts easily, start with less frequent use and build up gradually rather than exfoliating daily from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keratosis Pilaris Treatments