How to Treat Keratosis Pilaris: Tips from a Skincare Professional

Keratosis pilaris (KP), also known as “chicken skin,” is a common skin condition that appears as small, rough bumps on the arms, thighs, and sometimes the cheeks. These bumps result from keratin buildup, a protein that can block hair follicles. While KP is harmless, it can be frustrating to deal with, but with the right skincare routine, you can smooth out these bumps and improve your skin’s texture.

Here’s a guide on how to effectively treat keratosis pilaris at home, including our top product recommendations.

1. Exfoliate with Gentle Acids

Effective treatment of keratosis pilaris begins with exfoliation. To break down keratin buildup and smooth the skin, chemical exfoliants like mandelic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid work wonders.

• Face Reality Mandelic Acid Body Wash & Scrub: Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is gentle enough for sensitive skin. It exfoliates without irritation, making it ideal for those dealing with KP. The body wash and scrub help unclog pores and smooth the rough texture by removing dead skin cells.

  • How to use: In the shower, start with the Mandelic Acid Body Wash, gently massaging the affected areas and rinsing with warm water. A few times a week, use the Mandelic Scrub to intensify exfoliation, but avoid over-scrubbing to prevent irritation.

2. Incorporate Glycolic and Salicylic Acids

Both glycolic acid and salicylic acid are powerful exfoliants that can target KP by penetrating deeper into the skin to break down dead cells and keratin. For this, I recommend the Face Reality Glycolic-Lactic Toner and the Skin Script Rx Clarifying Toner Pads.

• Face Reality Glycolic-Lactic Toner: With 5% glycolic acid, this toner helps dissolve dead skin cells, improve texture, and promote healthy cell turnover, which is crucial for treating KP.

  • How to use: After cleansing, apply the toner to the affected areas with a cotton pad. Start 2-3 times a week, gradually increasing usage as tolerated. (We recommend purchasing the Face Reality travel bottle duo to easily spray the toner in the affected area)

• Skin Script Rx Clarifying Toner Pads: These pads contain 2% salicylic acid, 2% glycolic acid, and tea tree oil extract—an ideal combination for exfoliating the skin, reducing inflammation, and keeping pores clear. Salicylic acid works deep in the pores, while glycolic acid smooths the surface, and tea tree oil offers antibacterial benefits to prevent any potential irritation.

  • How to use: Use these pads after your shower or exfoliating routine, swiping them over the areas affected by KP. Start with 2-3 times per week and increase as needed.

3. Moisturize and Hydrate

Exfoliation is crucial, but moisturizing afterward is just as important to prevent the bumps from returning. Look for moisturizers with hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.

4. Stay Consistent with Your Routine

The key to managing keratosis pilaris is consistency. You may not see immediate results, but regular exfoliation and moisturizing will show improvements in your skin’s texture over time.

Final Thoughts

Managing keratosis pilaris requires a consistent routine of gentle exfoliation and proper hydration. The combination of Face Reality Mandelic Acid Body Wash & Scrub, Face Reality Glycolic-Lactic Toner, and Skin Script Rx Clarifying Toner Pads offers a powerful yet gentle solution to smooth and treat KP. Stick with these recommendations, and you’ll start to notice smoother, healthier-looking skin in just a few weeks.