How to treat Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a build-up of keratin, the protein that protects the skin. In KP, keratin blocks the hair follicles, leading to:

• Small, rough bumps (often flesh-colored or red)
• Dry or “sandpaper” texture
• Patches on upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or cheeks
• Bumps that sometimes resemble tiny pimples—but with no pus or inflammation

KP is genetic and more common in people with dry skin, eczema, or asthma. It often worsens in cold weather or when the skin is dehydrated.

• The skin produces excess keratin, which plugs the follicle openings
• This results in a rough, bumpy texture
• Dead skin cells are not shed properly, compounding the buildup
• The follicle becomes raised, but usually not inflamed

KP is a form of follicular hyperkeratosis and is not contagious or harmful, but it can be persistent and cosmetically frustrating.

Smooth, Hydrate, and Protect

1. Gentle Body Cleanser (Fragrance-Free)

Start with a body wash that won’t strip or irritate KP-prone skin.

• Look for creamy or non-foaming cleansers with glycerin, colloidal oatmeal, or panthenol
• Avoid sulfates, drying alcohols, and added fragrance

KP skin is already prone to dryness—keeping the barrier intact during cleansing is key.

2. Exfoliating Body Lotion

Apply a lightweight exfoliating treatment to target rough texture and follicular buildup.

Best actives for morning use:

• Lactic acid (5–10%)
• Urea (10–20%)
• Salicylic acid (BHA) for thicker or oilier areas

Apply directly after cleansing while the skin is slightly damp for better absorption.

3. Barrier-Reinforcing Moisturiser

Seal in hydration and help prevent future keratin buildup.

• Choose moisturisers with ceramides, squalane, urea, or shea butter
• Look for a non-greasy formula if applying under clothing

4. Broad-Spectrum Body SPF (if exposed)

Sun exposure can darken KP-prone areas and increase post-inflammatory pigmentation.

• Use SPF 30–50 on arms, legs, or shoulders if skin is visible
• Choose a lightweight, fragrance-free formula to avoid clogging follicles

Bonus: Sunscreen protects from long-term damage and supports more even skin tone.

Exfoliate, Deeply Nourish, and Restore

1. Cleanse with Lukewarm Water + Gentle Body Wash

• Skip hot water—it can worsen dryness and texture.
• Use your same fragrance-free, low-foam cleanser from the morning
• Keep showers short and skin pat-dried—not rubbed

2. Apply Targeted Treatment

Evening is the best time for stronger actives to work uninterrupted.

• Apply a urea 20% lotion, lactic acid, or azelaic acid
• Focus on the arms, thighs, or any areas where bumps are most visible

Use every night or alternate with barrier creams if skin feels dry.

3. Follow with Rich Moisturiser

Replenish hydration lost throughout the day and support overnight repair.

• Look for shea butter, lanolin, ceramides, or cholesterol
• For extra dry skin, choose a thicker formula or ointment-style balm

4. Seal with a Body Oil or Balm (optional)

Add an occlusive layer over dry patches or after moisturiser to lock in moisture.

• Use squalane oil, jojoba, or a balm like Vaseline or lanolin
• Especially helpful on elbows, knees, or backs of arms

This final step can dramatically improve skin smoothness and reduce flakiness over time.

• Smoother texture: 2–4 weeks with daily exfoliation
• Reduced redness or pigmentation: 6–8 weeks, especially with azelaic acid or niacinamide
• Long-term improvement: Best results come from maintenance, not aggressive treatments

• Be patient: KP takes 4–6 weeks of consistent care to visibly improve
• Don’t over-exfoliate: Too much acid or scrubbing can inflame the skin and worsen redness
• Layer smartly: Use exfoliant first, then moisturiser, and seal with balm if needed
• Stay consistent—even when it looks better. KP returns quickly when left untreated.

1. Hydration Starts From Within

Dry skin can make KP feel more pronounced. Support your skin by staying hydrated throughout the day.

2. Shower Smarter

• Keep showers short and lukewarm
• Use fragrance-free body washes
• Moisturise within 3 minutes of towel-drying for better barrier support

3. Choose Soft, Breathable Fabrics

• Friction can make KP-prone areas (like arms or thighs) more inflamed.
• Stick to cotton, bamboo, or modal
• Avoid rough seams, scratchy fabrics, or tight-fitting clothes that rub against the skin
  

4. Be Gentle with Your Skin

It’s tempting to scrub KP bumps away—but harsh scrubs or loofahs can inflame the follicles and lead to redness or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Use chemical exfoliants (like urea or lactic acid), not rough scrubs
• Apply with your hands or a soft cloth—never exfoliate on broken or sensitive skin

5. Stay Consistent, Even When Skin Looks Smooth

KP often returns quickly when neglected. Even when your skin is soft and clear, maintenance is key.

• Keep using gentle exfoliants 2–3x per week
• Moisturise daily, especially in drier months or after shaving

6. Protect KP-Prone Skin from the Sun

While sun exposure can temporarily hide KP, it can also dry out the skin and cause pigmentation in bumpy areas.

• Use a body SPF 30–50 on arms, legs, or cheeks when exposed
• Consider physical barriers (clothing, shade) during peak UV hours

“It’s acne.”

KP is not acne—it’s a buildup of keratin, not sebum or bacteria.

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“Scrubbing it will make it go away.”

Actually, scrubbing can irritate KP and make bumps look worse.

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"It only affects teens.”

KP often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood.