Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that looks like like small goosebumps around the hair follicles and is generally found on the upper arms and thighs. The goosebump texture of the skin is thought to be caused by a buildup of excess keratin. While there is no cure for the condition, it is possible to control the symptoms with treatment. The most common treatment for keratosis pilaris is skin lubrication with an over-the-counter moisturizer. Not every treatment will be effective for everyone, but most people can experience temporary relief by following a regular skin-care routine.

Generally, keratosis pilaris is a harmless condition, but it can be cosmetically unattractive. It is most common in children and may be exacerbated during puberty; however, it usually diminishes with age. Many people with keratosis pilaris are unaware that the condition has a name and can be treated. The most important aspect in treating KP can be consistency — once the treatment is stopped, the condition most likely will return to its original state.

A regular skin care regimen to prevent excessive skin dryness, such as using mild cleansers and moisturizing the skin regularly, is the most common treatment for keratosis pilaris. Gently exfoliating with a loofah or body scrub a few times a week may help as well. To achieve the best results, it may be necessary to combine the skin-care regimen with physical treatments and topical products, especially for more severe cases of KP. In these instances, it may be beneficial for a person to see a doctor or dermatologist who can offer different options for treatment for keratosis pilaris.

Retinoid creams can be an effective treatment for keratosis pilaris in some cases. The medicine causes the skin’s outer layer to grow quicker, thereby decreasing the amount of keratin in the skin. This causes the surface layer to become thinner and the pores are less likely to become blocked. Retinoid creams are generally used for the treatment of acne, but some people believe they may benefit people with KP as well. In severe cases, doctors may also prescribe a topical steroid cream for treatment of keratosis pilaris.

Physical treatments, such as gentle exfoliation, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels may also be effective treatments for the condition. Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive office procedure that uses vacuum-assisted suction and abrasive particles to exfoliate the skin. This removes the excess keratin and outer layers of the skin. Keratosis pilaris typically is a chronic condition that requires long-term treatment to obtain the best results.