Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a super common skin condition that many people experience—and no, you're not alone. Often nicknamed "chicken skin," KP appears as tiny, rough bumps that typically show up on upper arms, thighs, and sometimes cheeks. These harmless but sometimes frustrating bumps are completely normal and affect countless individuals.
Through this blog we will be breaking down what exactly Keratosis Pilaris is, how it can present on different skin types and how you can treat it using specialist Keratosis Pilaris skin care. At the end of the day, this harmless skin condition is something that many people live with so however you choose to look after your skin, let's learn more about it!
What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?
At its core, Keratosis Pilaris happens when keratin—a protective protein in your skin—builds up and blocks hair follicles. This buildup creates those characteristic small, bumpy patches.
Genetics play a significant role, with Keratosis Pilaris often running in families. People with dry skin conditions like eczema are more likely to experience it, and cold, dry weather can make symptoms more pronounced.
What are Keratosis Pilaris Symptoms?
Keratosis Pilaris presents as small, rough bumps that can be skin-colored, red, or brown, appearing differently on different skin colours. These bumps might feel like sandpaper and typically cluster in specific areas like arms and legs. While totally harmless, they can sometimes make people feel self-conscious about their skin's texture.
How to Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris
Here's the good news: while KP can't be permanently "cured," it can absolutely be managed. Consistent skincare is key to addressing Keratosis Pilaris, especially incorporating regular exfoliation and moisturising into your skincare routine.
Try to look for specific products such as a Keratosis Pilaris scrub. Fur's KP Body Scrub is a fantastic option when managing the symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris, containing a high percentage of AHAs, it can help smooth skin and clarify pores. Chemical exfoliants are particularly effective in reducing rough texture and promoting more even skin. Take a look at our blog on managing KP for more tips and tricks to care for your skin.
Is Keratosis Pilaris Itchy?
For some people, KP can cause mild itching, especially in dry conditions. If your Keratosis Pilaris is exacerbated by other skin conditions then it may be more susceptible to itchiness. Making sure that you maintain a regular moisturizing and exfoliating routine using gentle scrubs can help minimize any discomfort. Equally making sure that you don’t irritate the area will reduce itchiness. Avoid using harsh exfoliators, especially products with sharp physical exfoliants or rough textured exfoliating cloths. If you do use exfoliating wash cloths, make sure to regularly clean them so that they do not irritate your skin and exacerbate the problem.
Summary
Keratosis Pilaris is a common, completely normal skin condition characterized by small, rough bumps. While it can't be permanently eliminated, a consistent skincare routine focusing on gentle exfoliation and hydration can help improve skin texture and reduce any irritation it causes.
At Fur, we make it our mission to help you feel comfortable in your skin. Our products are specifically formulated to be gentle and nourishing to all types of skin, especially delicate intimate skin. Our dedicated Keratosis Pilaris skin care range offers targeted and effective solutions for those who want to manage the texture and irritation that this condition causes.