What should you know about strawberry chicken skin?

Keratosis pilaris occurs when keratin collects around hair follicles, creating tiny rough bumps commonly felt on the upper arms, thighs, or cheeks. It is usually more textured than painful and may look flesh-coloured or red. [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/) is different: inflammation or infection of follicles can cause tender, itchy, or pus-filled spots, often after sweating, friction, shaving, or occlusion.

Use short lukewarm showers, a mild cleanser, and a plain moisturiser soon after washing. A product containing urea, lactic acid, or salicylic acid may soften roughness, but introduce one active slowly and stop if it burns or cracks the skin. Avoid harsh scrubbing, squeezing, and close shaving over inflamed bumps. Loose clothing can reduce rubbing and sweat-related irritation.

Arrange a review if bumps become painful, hot, rapidly more red, swollen, crusted, or filled with pus, or if they keep returning despite gentle care. Fever or red streaking needs prompt medical attention. Sudden widespread change, severe itch, or involvement of the eyes or mouth also deserves assessment because it may not be simple keratosis pilaris.

Ask whether the pattern fits keratosis pilaris or [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), which active moisturiser suits your skin, how often to use it, and whether shaving, sweat, or another product is aggravating the area.