Keratosis Pilaris and Chicken Skin

Keratosis pilaris develops when keratin builds up around hair follicles. It often appears on the outer upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks and may feel like fine sandpaper. Dry weather, friction, and vigorous rubbing can make the texture more noticeable. It usually does not cause pus or deep pain. If bumps are hot, tender, rapidly spreading, or filled with pus, folliculitis is another possibility and needs a different approach.

Use a gentle cleanser and apply moisturiser soon after bathing while the skin is still slightly damp. Products containing urea, lactic acid, or salicylic acid may loosen plugs, but introduce one active product at a time and stop if burning or a rash develops. Avoid scratching, squeezing, rough mitts, and very hot showers. Improvement is gradual and maintenance may be needed. A clinician can confirm Keratosis Pilaris and choose a routine for your skin tone, sensitivity, and affected body area.

Book a medical review if the bumps are painful, itchy enough to disturb sleep, draining, crusted, or leaving scars. Get prompt care for rapidly worsening redness, swelling, warmth, or fever. A review is also useful when the rash is new, limited to an unusual site, or does not fit the familiar rough follicle pattern, because other conditions can look similar.

Do these bumps fit keratosis pilaris or folliculitis? Which moisturiser or exfoliating ingredient is suitable for me? How often should I use it? Could friction, shaving, or another skin condition be worsening the appearance?