How to get rid of keratosis

Keratosis pilaris is caused by keratin, a skin protein, plugging hair follicles and creating small rough bumps. The texture is often called chicken skin and may be skin-coloured, pink, or darker than surrounding skin. Dry weather, sensitive skin, and family tendency can make it more noticeable. It is different from an ingrown hair, which curves back into the skin and may form a tender, localised bump after hair removal. Because the word keratosis can describe several skin growths, a new solitary lesion, bleeding spot, crust, or rapidly changing mark deserves an examination rather than home exfoliation.

Use a mild cleanser and apply an emollient soon after bathing while the skin is still slightly damp. Products containing urea, lactic acid, or salicylic acid may soften the plugs when used as directed, but start cautiously because stinging and irritation can occur. Topical retinoids are another option a clinician may prescribe or recommend for selected cases. Avoid picking, rough scrubs, very hot water, and friction from tight clothing. Chemical peels or laser hair removal may be considered for particular texture or follicle concerns, but they need an assessment of skin tone, sensitivity, and the actual diagnosis. Improvement requires regular care and may fade when treatment stops.

See a dermatologist if the bumps are painful, pus-filled, intensely itchy, spreading quickly, or not behaving like a stable rough texture. Arrange prompt assessment for a lesion that bleeds, ulcerates, forms a persistent crust, or changes in colour, border, or size. Do not assume every bump is keratosis pilaris.

Ask whether the bumps are keratosis pilaris, ingrown hairs, acne, or another condition; which ingredient suits your skin; how often to apply it; and whether a procedure is appropriate.