Have you ever experienced areas of tiny, textured bumps on the skin, maybe on the backs of your upper arms or legs in particular?

You may have even heard it referred to as ‘chicken skin’ in the past, but what actually is this common body skin concern?

First, it's important to know those little bumps on the backs of your arms aren't dangerous, nor are they unusual. But if they bother you, you have options.

Read on for all your Keratosis Pilaris and chicken skin questions, answered.

What is Keratosis Polaris?

Keratosis Pilaris (or KP for short) is a very common skin condition characterised by areas of dry skin and texture from small, raised bumps.

Most often seen on the sides of the face, and back of the arms and thighs, Keratosis Pilaris can affect anybody regardless of age or skin type - although it’s most common in those under 30 – and KP can also appear on other areas of the body.

What Causes Keratosis Pilaris? 

These areas of texture appear due to a process called ‘follicular hyperkeratosis’.

Dead, sticky skin cells gather together and fill the entrance to the hair follicle instead of exfoliating away, forming a Keratin plug at the surface.

This shows up as the tiny bumps we see at the follicle and can sometimes present with irritation and redness around the area.

Keratosis Polaris can often be quite stubborn, and the more dry your skin is, the more severe the KP appears.

Ever noticed it seems worse during the cold winter months, but clears a little on a sunny holiday? Exfoliation and hydration are key in your fight against KP. 

Can You Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris?

Unfortunately, there’s no way of ‘curing’ KP, but you can smooth its appearance, reduce related redness and clear areas of KP from the skin.

First stop, is chemical exfoliation with Glycolic Acid.

Glycolic Acid is a Keratolytic agent, meaning it can exfoliate the outer layers of the skin by breaking down the bonds holding dead skin to the surface.

Regular exfoliation over areas of the body affected by KP can actually assist with smoothing existing texture and hydrating the skin, as well as helping to prevent the formation of further Keratin plugs.

Moisturised skin will always function better, heal faster and appear healthier, so keep body skin hydrated.

Maybe the most important tip: Try not to pick at the bumps when they appear, as this will add unnecessary stress to the skin and can result in further irritation and scarring that is even more difficult to tackle.

Products for Keratosis Pilaris.

Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment – A combo of Glycolic Acid and Retinol smooths, hydrates and reduces redness all in one easy-to-use formula.

Alpha-H Liquid Gold – A Glycolic Acid facial liquid exfoliant that can also be used on the body; saturate a cotton pad and swipe over affected areas.

Alpha-H Micro Super Scrub – A dual Glycolic Acid and physical exfoliant for those who prefer using a scrub in the shower.

Alpha-H Daily Dose Multivitamin Body Serum – A brightening treatment with Niacinamide that helps to fade the uneven tone and texture KP leaves behind.