Feeling rough? As warm weather approaches and we pay more attention to our arms in preparation for summer clothing, you may have noticed some small bumps. If you have what look like small pimples on the back of your arms, you might be dealing with a skin condition called keratosis pilaris (KP).
While small pimples or red bumps on the arms or other areas might make you think it’s body acne, these bumps are caused by keratin plugs, not sebum plugs. KP is a common skin condition with over half of teenagers and 40% of adults affected.
What is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a harmless condition where small bumps show up on the skin, often on your upper arms, thighs, and butt. KP can affect other areas of the body as well.
These pimples on the arm are usually the same color as the skin or slightly reddish. They are caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that helps protect your skin, but in this case, it can clog your hair follicles, creating these bumps. KP can be more noticeable when your skin is dry, which is why it often gets worse during winter months.
Exactly what causes this overproduction of keratin that leads to KP is unknown. Several factors, such as genetics, dry skin, hormonal changes like puberty and pregnancy, and cold, dry environments, can contribute to it.
The rough, uneven texture of KP is sometimes compared to the skin of a plucked chicken or the surface of a strawberry, which is why it can be called “chicken skin” or “strawberry skin.” While the little red spots on the arm associated with KP are typically painless, they may cause itching or discomfort.
Keratosis Pilaris Treatment
While KP is harmless and often resolves on its own with age, there are plenty of ways to manage it and keep your skin looking and feeling better.
Keratosis pilaris treatments focus on exfoliating the affected areas to remove dead skin cells and unclog hair follicles, as well as moisturizing the skin to help soften and smooth its texture. Keeping the skin well-hydrated is essential for managing keratosis pilaris, as dry skin can exacerbate KP symptoms.
Mild Treatment
If your KP is mild, with a small number of bumps that are not very impactful, start with the mild acids and wash-off treatments. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and urea are commonly used to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, helping to unclog hair follicles and smooth the skin’s texture. Mild retinoids can also help increase cell turnover for smoother skin.
CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid to Exfoliate Rough and Bumpy Skin
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Urea 10% Roughness Smoothing Lotion with Urea, Shea Butter, and Allantoin
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner with Brightening and Smoothing AHA
Cocokind Retinol Body Cream with 0.05% Retinol and Ceramide NP
Moderate Treatment
If your KP is more noticeable or the mild treatments have not helped you, try amping up your KP skincare with some of the following products. Leave-on lotions with a stronger percentage of acid or retinoids can help to improve your KP if you stick with it. Remember to always use extra sun protection when using acids, as they make your skin much more prone to sunburn.
Paula's Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion 10% AHA for Keratosis Pilaris with Glycolic Acid and Shea Butter
AmLactin Daily Nourish Body Lotion with 12% Lactic Acid Exfoliator and Moisturizer
Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment with 0.1% Retinol
Strong Treatment
For more severe KP that does not respond to mild or moderate treatment, try a stronger acid product or a stronger retinoid like adapalene. Over time, retinoids can help reduce the appearance of bumps and improve the overall texture of the skin. If your skin is not responding to these treatments, you should visit a dermatologist for stronger prescription products.
Alpha Skin Care Revitalizing AHA Body Lotion with 12% Glycolic Acid
Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion with 17.5% Free Acid Value Glycolic Acid for Keratosis Pilaris
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Treatment
- Maximum over-the-counter strength
- Non-greasy gel-like texture
- Expensive
In addition to chemical exfoliants, physical exfoliation can also help smooth the texture of KP by removing dead skin cells and preventing the buildup of keratin. However, it’s important to avoid scrubbing too aggressively or too often, as this can irritate the skin and worsen KP symptoms. Some scrubs geared towards getting rid of KP also include chemical exfoliants for double duty.
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant for Keratosis Pilaris with 10% AHA
DERMAdoctor KP Duty Body Scrub Exfoliant for Keratosis Pilaris with 10% AHAs + PHAs
Hair Removal
Since KP is caused by keratin blocking hair follicles, reducing the presence of hair can help minimize this buildup. Methods like laser hair removal or electrolysis, done by professionals, can target the hair follicles directly and reduce hair growth.
At-home IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices are a popular option for hair removal, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. IPL devices work best if you have light-to-medium skin and dark hair, as the technology relies on the contrast between the pigment in the hair and the pigment in the skin to target the hair. People with darker skin tones could risk skin damage, while those with blonde, red, gray, or white hair might find IPL less effective.
Consult a dermatologist to ensure hair removal is appropriate for your skin type and to avoid any potential irritation.
Braun Silk Expert Pro5 IPL Hair Removal Device Lasting Hair Regrowth Reduction
Lifestyle Changes
Making simple changes can also help manage KP. Using a humidifier in dry environments can help keep skin hydrated, and avoiding hot, long showers or baths and using mild, fragrance-free cleansers can also help your skin.
LEVOIT LV600S Smart Warm and Cool Mist Humidifier for Home Large Room 753ft² Coverage
Prescription Medications
If over-the-counter products aren’t cutting it, a visit to a dermatologist for keratosis pilaris treatment may be necessary. They may prescribe you topical retinoids, topical corticosteroids, Accutane, or other medications to help manage underlying skin conditions. You may also want to visit a dermatologist if you suspect KP is on your face and you need help distinguishing it from acne.
Laser Treatment
For more persistent cases or when skin appearance is a significant concern, laser therapy can be an option. Dermatologists may recommend laser treatments to reduce redness and improve the skin’s texture, though multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results. This option is typically considered when other treatments have not worked.
Life with keratosis pilaris can be a bumpy ride, but these small pimples on the back of arms are harmless and can often be managed with the right keratosis pilaris treatments. You’ll smooth things out in no time!
