Treating Keratosis Pilaris: Our Favorite Products for KP

Affecting nearly 3 million people in the United States each year, Keratosis Pilaris, more commonly referred to as KP, is a skin condition caused by a build up of the hard protein keratin in the hair follicle, essentially clogging it. Appearing most often on the backs of the arms, and worsening in dry, cold climates with little humidity, KP can affect areas of skin all over the body. It shows up as small, rough, red or white bumps that resemble goose bumps, acne, or, what many call chicken skin. While not a danger (the bumps neither hurt or itch), KP is often difficult to conceal, leading to embarrassment and discomfort in many people, and scarring in those who can’t help but pick at the bumps. While the condition can often clear up on its own, it cannot be “cured,” so the best a person can do is treat the problem areas with products that offer the skin added moisture, hydration and gentle exfoliation (look for glycolic acid, lactic acid, or urea). We’re sharing some of the products and treatments we’ve found worked for us to treat KP below!

Dermadoctor KP Duty

One of the first products I tried to tackle KP was Dermadoctor KP Duty ($38; ulta.com). Specifically formulated for keratosis pilaris, KP Duty uses a proprietary blend of glycolic acid, green tea extract, and urea to exfoliate your problem areas and infuse them with hydration. Used twice a day, results can be seen and felt in just a few days.

Frank Original Body Scrub

Using roasted and ground robusta coffee beans to manually, but gently, exfoliate the skin on both the body and face, Frank Original Coffee Scrub ($14; us.frankbody.com) is a great, affordable, and scent-sational way to deal with KP. The scrub not only deals with these bumps, but also helps with cellulite, stretch marks, psoriasis, eczema, and scarring! After exfoliation, the scrub hydrates skin with cold pressed sweet almond oil which is high in oleic acid and vitamins A, C, and D.

Miracle Skin Transformer Miracle Balm

For those who pick at their KP, Miracle Skin Transformer Miracle Balm ($36; miracleskintransformer.com) is a true miracle! The thick balm intensely hydrates irritated skin with waxes, oils, and antioxidants. Using the buzzed about Manuka Honey, renowned for its healing properties, this balm helps to heal and smooth the bumps and reduce redness seemingly overnight.

Capri Clear^® Coconut Oil Spray-On Moisturizer

Great for KP sufferers and eczema (I use it for both!) Capri Clear^® Coconut Oil Spray-On Moisturizer ($10.99; capriclear.com) helps to naturally hydrate sensitive, dry skin. The spray goes on a little wet, but dries quickly and leaves the skin feeling silky smooth right away.

Have something that’s helped you? Share it in the comments!