How to Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris: Treatments That Work

Those small, rough bumps on your arms, thighs, or cheeks—often called "chicken skin"—are keratosis pilaris (KP). This common condition affects 50% to 80% of teens and 40% of adults. While KP is harmless and often improves with age, effective treatments can smooth your skin and reduce the appearance of bumps.

What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?

KP happens when excess keratin builds up around hair follicles, creating plugs that trap hairs and form tiny bumps. The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it tends to run in families and often appears alongside dry skin or eczema.

Chemical Exfoliants: The Most Effective Treatment

Research shows that chemical exfoliants work better than physical scrubs for KP. A systematic review found lactic acid improved roughness and appearance by 66%, while salicylic acid showed 52% improvement.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Lactic acid and glycolic acid gently dissolve dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Look for lotions with 5-12% lactic acid or ammonium lactate. Start with 2-3 times weekly application and increase gradually as your skin adjusts.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

Salicylic acid penetrates deeper into pores to dissolve oil and debris. Products with 2-3% salicylic acid can help smooth rough patches, though they may work better for some people than others.

Urea

Urea serves double duty—it attracts moisture while breaking down keratin buildup. Creams with 10-20% urea effectively hydrate and soften bumpy skin. Recent studies show 20% urea significantly reduces KP roughness.

Retinoids for Cell Turnover

Topical retinoids, derived from vitamin A, promote cell turnover and prevent plugged follicles. Over-the-counter adapalene or prescription retinoids like tazarotene can improve KP texture. Apply at night and use sunscreen during the day, as retinoids increase sun sensitivity.

Moisturizing Strategy

Proper hydration is essential for managing KP:

• Apply thick, fragrance-free cream-based moisturizers daily
• Moisturize immediately after bathing while skin is damp
• Use humectant-rich products containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid
• Consider layering: apply treatment first, then moisturizer

Why Harsh Scrubbing Makes It Worse

Physical scrubs, loofahs, and aggressive exfoliation actually worsen KP. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, scrubbing irritates the skin and increases inflammation, making bumps more noticeable. The friction can also damage your skin barrier, leading to more dryness and roughness.

Instead, stick with gentle chemical exfoliants and avoid harsh physical scrubbing.

Additional Self-Care Tips

• Take short, warm (not hot) showers—limit to 10 minutes
• Use gentle, soap-free cleansers instead of harsh soaps
• Pat skin dry rather than rubbing
• Avoid tight or abrasive clothing like wool on affected areas
• Use a humidifier in dry environments

When to See a Dermatologist

See a dermatologist if over-the-counter treatments don't improve your KP after 4-6 weeks of consistent use. They can prescribe stronger retinoids or recommend laser therapy, which research shows is highly effective for stubborn cases. Professional treatments like Nd:YAG laser therapy demonstrate promising results with a favorable safety profile.

What to Expect

Treatment takes time—expect to wait several weeks before seeing improvement. Consistent daily care produces the best results. While there's no cure for KP, most people see significant improvement with proper treatment, and the condition often fades naturally by age 30.