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Keratosis pilaris (KP) is generally harmless, so treatment is optional. If the small, rough bumps bother you, start with short lukewarm showers, a mild unperfumed cleanser, and moisturizer. A product with urea or lactic acid can be a next step for persistent roughness; avoid harsh scrubbing and give a routine several weeks to work.
What keratosis pilaris looks and feels like
KP is caused by plugs of dead skin cells in hair follicles. It commonly appears as tiny, rough bumps on the upper arms and front of the thighs, sometimes resembling goosebumps or small pimples. The bumps’ color varies with skin tone. Dry air and winter can make them more noticeable; some people find they itch. The NHS describes KP as harmless and non-infectious, and says it can persist for years before clearing on its own.
A clinician can usually diagnose KP by examining the skin. Other conditions can look similar, so do not rely on an online description or photograph if you are unsure. Ask a pharmacist or clinician for advice if the bumps look unusual, are inflamed, or are very itchy. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains diagnosis and treatment; the British Association of Dermatologists also notes that other conditions may resemble KP.
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Keep bathing brief and lukewarm
Take a short shower or bath in warm—not hot—water. AAD advises bathing no more than once daily and keeping a bath or shower to 20 minutes or less. Use a mild, unperfumed cleanser; perfumed or drying soaps can aggravate dry skin. Avoid picking, scratching, and rubbing the bumps.
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- [ CERAVE MOISTURIZING LOTION WITH SALICYLIC ACID ] Body moisturizer that gently exfoliates dry, scaly, or rough and bumpy skin on legs and upper arms. Lightweight, non-greasy feel that leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.
- [ EXFOLIATE & MOISTURIZE ] Salicylic Acid & Lactic Acid to help exfoliate, Hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin's moisture, and Niacinamide to help calm skin. SA is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), an exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and smooths skin.
- [ GENTLE ON SKIN ] Suitable for body. Fragrance free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic. Can be paired with CeraVe Renewing Salicylic Acid Cleanser for Rough and Bumpy Skin to cleanse & exfoliate.
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Moisturize after bathing
Gently pat the skin, then apply moisturizer while it is still damp. AAD advises applying it within five minutes and suggests a thick, oil-free cream or ointment. Reapply when skin feels dry. A basic moisturizer may be enough if the bumps are not troubling you; a cream containing urea or lactic acid is another option when you want to soften roughness. See the AAD’s KP self-care guidance for bathing and moisturizing advice.
Choose an optional treatment for persistent roughness
If regular moisturizing is not enough, consider one product with an ingredient used to soften or loosen the buildup in follicles. There is no universally best over-the-counter ingredient established by the general guidance; choose based on your skin’s tolerance, follow the package directions, and introduce one active at a time.
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- Bye bye bumps: This potent moisturizing cream exfoliates while it hydrates in one easy step – no scrubbing or rinsing required – so you can finally say goodbye to KP, chicken skin, strawberry skin, whatever you want to call it
- Derm-adored body care: AmLactin is the #1 dermatologist-recommended moisturizer brand with lactic acid, offering a solution for all skin types and challenges, from normal to dry skin, to ashy and flaky skin, and even keratosis pilaris
- It’s not just moisturizer, it’s skin therapy: Our dual-acting AmLactin cream formula softens and visibly smooths rough, dry bumps associated with keratosis pilaris (KP) by boosting healthy skin renewal with resurfacing, no-scrub exfoliation
- Our formula: Clinically proven 15% Lactic Acid AHA keratosis pilaris cream exfoliates to boost skin cell turnover and deeply hydrates to reveal healthier looking skin that feels smoother than ever
- Free-from formulas: This dye-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, fragrance-free moisturizer for dry skin is rich, fast absorbing, non-greasy and pH balanced; formulated for keratosis pilaris
| Ingredient | How it may help | Practical consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Urea or lactic acid | Can moisturize while softening rough skin; both are found in creams recommended for KP. | A reasonable ingredient to look for in a moisturizer. Follow the product label. |
| Salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or other alpha-hydroxy acids | Help loosen dead skin cells. | These can irritate skin if used too often. Start with one product and its labeled directions. |
| Topical retinoids | May be used as a medicine option to help clear follicular buildup. | Use with clinician guidance when appropriate. Pregnancy or nursing can affect whether retinoid treatment is suitable; ask a clinician for individualized advice. |
These ingredient options are described by the AAD and Mayo Clinic. Do not layer several strong exfoliating products into a beginner routine. If a product makes your skin raw, unusually dry, or irritated, stop using it for a few days; restart cautiously only if appropriate, or ask a healthcare professional.
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Physical exfoliation is optional—not a shortcut
A soft washcloth can be used gently if you find it helpful, but forceful scrubbing is not a better treatment. Skip rough body scrubs and aggressive brushes, and do not try to extract the plugs. Too much friction or too many active products can irritate skin and make symptoms worse. Both the AAD and the NHS advise gentle care rather than harsh rubbing.
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- Dermatologist-recommended body care: Amlactin is the #1 dermatologist-recommended moisturizer brand with lactic acid, offering a solution for all skin types and challenges, from normal to dry skin, to ashy and flaky skin, and even keratosis pilaris
- Award-winning lactic acid body lotion formula: Powered by 12% Lactic Acid, a gentle yet effective AHA, our dry skin lotion encourages natural skin cell turnover, exfoliates dead skin, and deeply hydrates for transformative results
- Free-from formulas: This cruelty-free, dye-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, fragrance-free exfoliating lotion is lightweight, fast absorbing, non-greasy and pH balanced for dry to rough skin
What to expect and when to get advice
Improvement is gradual, not a guaranteed cure. The AAD advises contacting a dermatologist if there is no improvement after following a treatment plan for 4 to 6 weeks. Some people need ongoing maintenance to keep results, which may mean reducing how often they use a medicine or switching to a non-prescription moisturizer. Over time, KP may improve or clear on its own, but it is not possible to predict when that will happen for an individual.
- Ask a pharmacist if self-care is not helping and the bumps bother you, or if the skin becomes itchy or inflamed.
- Ask a clinician if you are unsure that the condition is KP, if symptoms persist, or if you need help choosing a treatment for sensitive skin.
- Seek individualized advice before using a topical retinoid if you are pregnant or nursing.
The NHS guidance on KP includes advice on self-care and when to ask a pharmacist or GP.
Quick Recap
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- KP EXFOLIATING BODY MOISTURIZER FOR ROUGH, BUMPY SKIN. Dermatologist-created to target keratosis pilaris, this treatment lotion moisturizes and exfoliates in one step for softer, smoother skin
- FOUR ACTIVE INGREDIENTS THAT WORK TOGETHER TO TARGET KP. 0.1% Encapsulated Retinol, 10% Urea, 5% Lactic Acid, and Ceramides exfoliate, moisturize, and rebuild the skin barrier in one formula.
- VISIBLY REDUCES BUMPS AND SMOOTHS ROUGH, TEXTURED SKIN. This multi-pathway formula exfoliates, hydrates, and promotes healthy surface turnover for softer, more refined skin with consistent use.
- FORMULATED FOR BUMP-PRONE AND SENSITIVE SKIN ON ARMS AND LEGS. Ideal for keratosis pilaris and chicken skin. Apply generously to textured areas once or twice daily as a complete treatment step.
- DERMATOLOGIST-DEVELOPED BY DR. SHAH FOR MULTI-PATHWAY RESULTS. Combines exfoliation, hydration, surface turnover, and barrier support in one streamlined keratosis pilaris treatment lotion.
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- Exfoliating Lotion for Clear Skin: A deeply moisturizing glycolic acid body lotion for Keratosis Pilaris, rough and bumpy skin, scars, uneven skin tone & texture & dryness.
- Smooth Skin with No Redness: Our KP Lotion has two key ingredients: glycolic acid that exfoliates away surface bumps and oil soluble salicylic acid can go deep into hair follicles and pores.
- Effective PH Level: AHA and BHA are very sensitive to pH levels. With just the right pH at 3.5 our KP Exfoliating Lotion allows for more “free acids” to work on smoothing and clearing your skin.
- Deep Moisturizing Ingredients: Dry skin makes your KP worse, so we’ve included these moisturizing ingredients: Glycine Soja Oil (rich in antioxidants), CCT and Aloe Vera acts as a soothing ingredient.
- Made in USA: Clean and Vegan Ingredients, Made in the USA in a cGMP/SOP compliant facility. No parabens, dyes, phthalates, or sulfates.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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