Are you frustrated by persistent,sandpaper-like bumps on your skin that just won’t go away? You are not alone. Understanding the underlying cause of keratosis pilaris is the first step towards achieving smoother, healthier skin.

Keratosis Pilaris, a surprisingly common skin condition, is caused by an overproduction of keratin-a natural protein present in the body. This excess keratin blocks the hair follicles, leading to the appearance of small, rough spots on areas such as the arms and legs.¹

Those tiny bumps are more than just a cosmetic issue, they may be your body’s way of signalling an underlying skin imbalance. In this article, you’ll learn about the root cause of keratosis pilaris and practical steps you can take to improve its appearance by addressing it at its source.

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common and harmless skin condition that typically affects children and young adults, with an estimated prevalence of (50-70%).¹ It is caused by an excess production of keratin, which blocks hair follicles and creates small, goosebump-like spots. These bumps give the skin a rough, sandpaper-like texture. Although most commonly found on the outer arms and thighs, KP can also appear on the face, buttocks, and other areas. It usually doesn’t cause pain but may be associated with mild itchiness, redness, or dryness.³

Who gets it and why?

Keratosis Pilaris most often begins in childhood and, although there is no known cure, it typically improves with age and may resolve in adulthood.³ This article offers practical self-care tips to help control and reduce the appearance of KP, so you can feel more confident in your skin.

The condition is believed to be hereditary, with a 1 in 2 chance of being passed on if one parent is affected.¹ KP may also worsen during winter months, as cold, dry air can lead to skin dryness and trigger flare-ups. What is Keratin?

We now know that KP is caused by a build-up of keratin- but what exactly is keratin?

Keratin is a natural protein found in the body and is essential for the health of your skin, hair, and nails. It helps form the structure of the outer layer of the skin and provides strength and protection to tissues.²

In KP, excess keratin accumulates and blocks hair follicles, leading to the formation of small, rough“plugs” or bumps on the skin surface.² While the exact reason for this overproduction is still unclear, it is thought to be related to genetic factors.¹

How to manage and treat keratosis pilaris

While there is no cure for KP, several treatments can help to improve the condition and manage symptoms effectively. The most common treatment approaches include emollients 

(moisturisers), exfoliants, and, in some cases, prescription creams. These aim to soften the skin, reduce dryness, and prevent further build-up in the hair follicles. 

Emollients

Emollients help keep the skin soft and hydrated, especially during the winter months when cold, dry weather can worsen skin dryness. Moisturising frequently supports a healthy skin barrier and may help reduce the appearance of KP. It’s best to avoid perfumed body washes and fragranced skincare products, as these can strip the skin’s natural oils and worsen dryness-potentially triggering flare-ups of KP.^1,3,4

Exfoliants

Exfoliants containing ingredients such as salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid: BHA)and lactic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid: AHA)can help to soften bumps and improve the overall texture of the skin due to their gentle, chemical exfoliating properties. These ingredients work by removing dead skin cells and preventing further blockage of hair follicles.

Exfoliating two to three times per week is generally recommended. However, avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can damage the skin barrier and worsen irritation.^3,4

Prescription options

If KP does not respond to over-the-counter or home treatments, a healthcare provider may prescribe a topical or retinoid cream. Retinoids works by promoting cell turnover, which can help soften the skin, unclog hair follicles, and reduce redness.^3,4

Here are some helpful lifestyle tips for managing keratosis pilaris:

• Wear breathable clothing: Tight-fitting fabrics can rub against the skin and cause irritation. Use gentle cleansers and exfoliators: Avoid products with harsh ingredients that can aggravate the skin
• Avoid hot showers: Hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, increasing dryness and worsening KP symptoms
• Moisturise frequently: Regular use of emollients helps maintain a strong, hydrated skin barrier^3,4

FAQs

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis Pilaris is a common skin condition that appears as small, rough bumps, usually on the upper arms and thighs. It occurs due to excess keratin production (a natural protein responsible for skin, nail and hair health). Excess keratin blocks the openings of hair follicles, leading to the “chicken skin” appearance.^1,2

What causes keratosis pilaris?

The exact cause of Keratosis Pilaris isn’t fully understood, but below are a list of contributing factors:

• Genetics – Keratosis Pilaris is thought to have a hereditary link
• Age – Most commonly develops in children and teens, but often subsides with age
• Climate – Keratosis Pilaris can worsen in colder and drier months such as winter. This is why frequent use of emollients is essential to maintain skin hydration³

What does keratosis pilaris look like?

• Small, painless bumps on the skin
• A rough or “goosebump” texture
• Occasional redness or inflammation

How is keratosis pilaris treated?

Whilst there is no cure for Keratosis Pilaris, the condition can be managed effectively through daily and consistent skincare.

Emollients, exfoliants, or prescription creams such as retinoids

Occasionally, in tougher cases, doctors may prescribe topical retinoids. The role of retinoids help to regulate skin cell turnover and in turn reduce keratin build up in the hair follicles.^3,4

Improvement takes time. Regular skincare is key, even when symptoms begin to fade.

When shall I see a doctor?

If your keratosis pilaris is severe, painful or not improving with home treatments, a doctor/dermatologist can recommend alternative options.

Can keratosis pilaris go away on its own?

Yes, many people see improvement over time during adulthood. Some may continue to have flare-ups, especially in drier and colder seasons.³

Can keratosis pilaris be cured?

There is no cure for Keratosis Pilaris however, the condition usually subsides during adulthood. Although there is no cure for Keratosis Pilaris, the condition can be effectively managed through careful and consistent skincare management.³

Summary

Keratosis Pilaris is a common condition caused by a build-up of keratin, a natural protein that supports the structure of skin, hair, and nails. This excess keratin blocks the hair follicles, resulting in small, rough, sandpaper-like bumps on the skin- typically on the upper arms, thighs, or buttocks.

The condition most commonly affects children and adolescents and often improves or resolves in adulthood. While the exact cause of excess keratin production isn’t fully understood, it is believed to be linked to genetics.

There is no known cure for keratosis pilaris, but consistent skincare using gentle cleansers, chemical exfoliants, and regular application of emollients can help reduce its appearance and improve skin texture.^2,3,4