If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission. Something you might know of as “chicken skin” could actually be Keratosis Pilaris, or KP, a surprisingly common skincare issue. Keratosis Pilaris can cause rough and bumpy skin textures, and is most commonly treated around upper arms, legs and buttocks areas of the body.
According to the Cleveland Clinic , it can affect about 50% to 80% of teenagers and 40% of adults at some point in their live. In fact, it’s so common that most dermatologists don’t consider Keratosis Pilaris condition at all. The Mayo Clinic explains that Keratosis Pilaris simply happens when there’s a “buildup of keratin — a hard protein that protects skin from harmful substances and infection.
” Though not a grooming problem, the keratin then clogs the opening of hair follicles, causing patches of rough, hyper-pigmented bumpy skin. There’s currently not enough research for dermatologists to say conclusively why certain people have Keratosis Pilaris, but “it might happen along with a genetic disease or skin conditions such as eczema.” While there’s currently no cure, it can be managed with gentle and consistent skincare routines.
The best Keratosis Pilaris treatments not only help promote cell turnover, but smooth the look of skin — so you’ll be seeing less patches in no time. This includes a combination of physical and chemical exfoliants .