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Bumpy, dry and textured patches — a trifecta of things you don’t want showing up on your skin.
If you’ve noticed tiny bumps or rough patches of skin on the backs of the upper arms (or other areas of the body, such as the thighs, chest or cheeks), you could be dealing with keratosis pilaris (KP). This skin condition is relatively common, but here’s some good news: It can be managed so you don’t have to live with red, rough skin forever.
Keratosis pilaris, often called chicken skin, is a common and harmless skin condition that causes small rough bumps on the arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks. It develops when keratin builds up and blocks hair follicles, creating a bumpy texture that may appear red, dry or flesh-colored.
What causes keratosis pilaris? It occurs when keratin builds up and plugs the opening of a hair follicle. A crucial protein found in the epidermis of the skin, keratin is essential in that it offers skin cells protection against infection. When keratin buildup occurs, it forms a plug blocking hair follicles and results in textured, red and bumpy skin associated with keratosis pilaris.
Dermatologists aren’t completely sure why it happens, but certain factors may contribute to its development: Dry weather and season changes, hormonal shifts and predisposition to skin conditions like atopic dermatitis are all potential culprits.
Common signs of keratosis pilaris include:
Often mistaken for other skin issues such as acne or milia, there are actually key differences between keratosis pilaris and other common skin concerns. Acne develops through a combination of excess oil production, buildup of dead skin cells, clogged hair follicles, bacterial activity and inflammation. Milia, on the other hand, occur when a buildup of keratin becomes trapped just beneath the skin’s surface, not necessarily in the air follicle. Another point of distinction between milia and keratosis pilaris? Keratosis pilaris tends to present as small red bumps which cover a broader area of skin (like arms or legs) with tiny bumps or dry patches, while milia are white or yellow bumps which generally develop on the chin, nose, cheeks and around the eyes.
When you notice these rough, dry patches or little red bumps on your skin, it might be cause for concern. However, keratosis pilaris isn’t painful. While itching isn't necessarily a prominent symptom, it can be a factor for some people.
If you're wondering how to get rid of chicken skin, follow these steps consistently:
When you’re dealing with KP, your skin is already feeling dry and rough — no need to make things worse by adding harsh ingredients to the mix. Instead, focus on calming and nourishing products in your bathing and skin care routine. Facial Recovery Oil can be used anywhere on the body and features gentle, balancing ingredients like clary sage oil and olive oil.
According to Dr. Stephen Matlock, Board-Certified Dermatologist and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon, “Anything that can irritate or dry the skin has the potential to worsen the condition.” This includes things like harsh, drying soaps, fragrances, detergents, aggressive exfoliation, and hot water — including hot showers.
Gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and reduce the buildup that contributes to keratosis pilaris. But be careful: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends avoiding aggressive scrubbing, as irritation can make keratosis pilaris worse. Instead, consider products containing chemical exfoliants such as lactic acid, glycolic acid or salicylic acid, which gently slough away dead skin. Start slowly and follow product directions to avoid over-exfoliating. A clean loofah or sponge is another great way to buff away dead skin cells.
Hot water is harsh for the skin as it strips natural oils and exacerbates dryness. Instead, opt for lukewarm water when you bathe, shower or wash your face. It is less likely to strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate dryness.
After your bath or shower, seal in hydration by applying moisturizer to the face and body. Because dryness can make keratosis pilaris more noticeable, regular moisturizing can help soften rough skin and improve its appearance. Try the Mangosteen Body Lotion, which not only hydrates but also helps resurface the skin with its unique Lactic Acid Complex.
Friction caused by close-fitting clothes can further irritate the skin because it disrupts the skin’s natural barrier against inflammation and bacteria. It also causes skin to become dry, increasing the risk of buildup and blocked pores. Taking off those sweaty post-gym leggings and having a quick rinse with gentle soap could be a wise move when you’re battling keratosis pilaris.
You may want professional guidance if:
Contact an esthetician or a dermatologist who will help you clear up the issue if you’re not seeing any improvement within a few weeks.
An important note: Managing keratosis pilaris means staying consistent with a routine! Once you stop taking steps to reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris, the condition often returns. In order to target keratosis pilaris — and continue to keep it at bay — make sure you check in with your Eminence Organics Spa Partner for some guidance about treatment and products that could help.
Find out more from our Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar about how to get rid of keratosis pilaris:
What is keratosis pilaris? Keratosis pilaris is a common, harmless skin condition that causes small, rough bumps, most often on the backs of the arms, thighs, legs or cheeks. It occurs when keratin builds up and plugs hair follicles. Dry weather, hormonal changes and a predisposition to conditions such as atopic dermatitis may contribute to its development.
How do you get rid of keratosis pilaris? While there is no permanent cure, you can help manage keratosis pilaris with consistent skin care. Gentle exfoliation, regular moisturizing, lukewarm showers and avoiding harsh or irritating products can help improve the appearance and texture of the skin.
What other skin issues could be mistaken for keratosis pilaris? Other common skin issues that cause small bumps, redness or rough patches and present similarly include eczema, folliculitis, ingrown hairs and contact dermatitis. Make sure to identify the issue before treating it.
Does keratosis pilaris go away? Keratosis pilaris may improve or even disappear over time, but it can also come and go. Consistent moisturizing, gentle exfoliation and avoiding skin irritants can help manage its appearance and keep rough, bumpy skin under control.
Are you dealing with these red bumps and wondering how to manage them? Visit your nearest Eminence Organics Spa Partner for help.
Laura Leiva is a freelance content writer for Eminence Organic Skin Care. She loves all things beauty and skin care, often testing out new formulas and products to learn everything she can about what's trending and working to improve skin health. She's written for numerous bran… Read more
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