What causes chicken skin on the arms?

Keratosis pilaris happens when keratin, a protein in the outer skin, collects around follicle openings. The result is a sandpapery texture with small skin-coloured or red bumps, commonly on the upper arms, thighs, or cheeks. Dry weather and naturally dry skin can make the texture more noticeable. It is not caused by poor hygiene and is not something you can scrub away.

Folliculitis is a different possibility. It involves inflammation around follicles and may look more like tender, itchy, or pus-filled spots. Shaving, friction, sweat, and occlusive products can encourage this pattern. A close look at the bumps, their distribution, and whether they hurt or drain helps separate the possibilities.

Use a gentle cleanser and short, lukewarm showers. Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser soon after bathing. Products containing urea, lactic acid, or salicylic acid may smooth plugged follicles when used as directed, but introduce one product at a time and stop if burning or marked redness develops. Avoid picking, harsh scrubs, and vigorous rubbing, which can worsen inflammation and leave darker marks.

If bumps are centred on recently shaved areas, pause shaving or use a clean, sharp razor with a lubricating gel. A dermatologist can distinguish keratosis pilaris from folliculitis and tailor treatment if home care does not settle the texture.

Arrange a dermatology review if the area becomes painful, hot, rapidly more swollen, or starts producing pus. Seek prompt medical help for fever, red streaking, or feeling unwell with a spreading rash. A review is also useful when bumps persist despite gentle care, recur after shaving, or leave substantial colour changes.

Could this be keratosis pilaris, folliculitis, or another follicle disorder? Which ingredient and schedule fit my skin? Should I change my shaving or hair-removal routine? What signs would mean I need an earlier review?