Keratosis Pilaris: Your Complete Guide

August 27, 2026

By: Lauren Sindel

Let’s discuss what keratosis pilaris is and what actually works for KP. 

Keratosis pilaris (aka chicken skin) looks like small red or skin-colored bumps on the upper arms, thighs, and buttocks. It makes your skin feel dry and rough like sandpaper. 

While it’s incredibly stubborn and frustrating, you can reduce the appearance of KP with the right products and care. Below, we show you what KP is, why you might be getting it, and the skincare products that treat it. 

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that happens when your skin produces too much keratin. There’s nothing wrong with keratin itself. It’s naturally produced by your skin as a protective barrier against harmful UV rays and bacteria. 

The problem is when your skin produces too much of it. This excess keratin hardens and clogs the hair follicles, leading to the formation of those signature tiny rough bumps. 

Most common signs:

• Small, rough bumps on skin

• Red, brown, or skin-colored bumps

• Most commonly found on the upper arms, thighs, and butt

• Can feel dry and itchy 

KP isn’t painful, dangerous, or contagious. It’s incredibly common, affecting around 40% of people.  

What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?

The main cause of KP is a buildup of keratin that clogs hair follicles. This blockage traps dead skin cells, giving the skin a rough, bumpy look and texture. Some people describe it as looking like goosebumps or sandpaper. Here’s why you might have KP. 

Genetics is a common culprit. If your parents had KP, you might get it too. Some research suggests that vitamin A deficiency can both trigger and worsen the rough, bumpy texture associated with keratosis pilaris. Since vitamin A controls how fast skin cells shed, low levels can cause dead cell buildup and blocked hair follicles.

Keratosis pilaris gets worse in cold or dry climates. Those with dry or sensitive skin may experience more flare ups during the winter months. 

How to Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris

Since the cause of KP is keratin buildup, the treatment for it lies in targeting that buildup and keeping it at bay. While there’s no permanent cure for KP, you can smooth its appearance with a good routine and consistency. Here’s an effective keratosis pilaris treatment plan you can do at home: 

Step 1. Exfoliate

To clear away those keratin plugs, exfoliate 1-3 times per week. Use an exfoliator with AHAs or PHAs to chemically shed dead skin cells and build up without irritating your skin. Scrubs can be effective as long as they’re not too abrasive as this can cause inflammation and potentially worsen KP symptoms. 

Step 2. Moisturize

Dry skin makes your skin feel rougher. Plus, moisturizing keeps your protective barrier strong for smoother, softer skin. A moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, urea, squalane, and lactic acid help smooth bumps and support your barrier.

Step 3. Cool Down Your Showers

Stop taking hot showers. Switch to showering in lukewarm water to avoid stripping and drying out your skin which can exacerbate rough bumps and strawberry legs. 

Truly Beauty Top Picks for Keratosis Pilaris

We know how annoying KP is. Here are our favorite products for getting smooth:

• Strawberry Blossoms Smoothing Body Scrub with 10% PHA + AHA: Gentle, super-fine scrub buffs away dead skin and dry bumps for a smoother surface layer. A base of mineral-rich sea salt promotes cell turnover while vitamin C and AHAs brighten and renew.
• Strawberry Blossoms Exfoliating Face + Body Pads: Resurfacing, textured pads with 5.5% AHAs plus 2% niacinamide for gentle yet powerful smoothing you can do outside the shower. 
• Soft Serve Hydrating Cream: The final step. A rich, cushiony body cream with hyaluronic acid and shea butter delivers deep, long lasting hydration. It leaves skin feeling soft and nourished. 

Is There an Effective Routine for Keratosis Pilaris?

Exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to keep hair follicles clear and KP under control. However, you need to be careful not to overdo it so your skin doesn’t get irritated which can actually worsen KP. 

A skin cycling exfoliation routine can be helpful. Three times a week, exfoliate areas with rough bumps and always follow up with moisturizer. 

Strawberry Blossoms Complete Collection features a KP scrub, resurfacing pads, and body peel spray with AHA + PHA that you can rotate throughout the week. 

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How to Prevent KP

Some helpful habits for managing KP: Skin hot showers, swap drying soaps for hydrating body washes, stick to your KP routine, and moisturize daily straight after showering while your skin’s a little damp for maximum absorption. 

You don’t need a complicated or harsh routine to keep KP under control. A few good products and consistency go a long way in preventing KP flareups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does My KP Get Worse in Winter?

Cold, dry weather can strip moisture from the skin, making KP feel rougher and look more noticeable. Keeping your skin moisturized can help reduce dryness and irritation.

Can I Get KP on My Face?

Yes. KP can appear on the cheeks and sometimes other areas of the face. Facial skin can be more sensitive, so gentle products are usually best.

Why Does KP Sometimes Look Red? 

The bumps can become red when the hair follicles are irritated or inflamed. Friction, dryness, and aggressive exfoliation may make redness more noticeable.

How Long Does it Take to Improve KP? 

Improvement takes time and varies from person to person. With consistent skincare, you may notice smoother, softer skin over several weeks rather than overnight.

What are the Best Skincare Ingredients for Keratosis Pilaris?

Look for products with lactic acid and glycolic acid (aka, AHAs) and urea, ceramides, squalane, and shea butter. They exfoliate and soften bumps for a smoother appearance. 

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