Top 7 Products to Improve Keratosis Pilaris

A roundup of seven dermatologist-favored products that can help smooth bumpy skin and calm redness from Keratosis Pilaris.

Keratosis Pilaris (KP), commonly called "chicken skin," is a benign skin condition marked by small, rough bumps that most often show up on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the face. The bumps form when keratin, a structural protein, blocks hair follicles. There's no permanent cure, but a steady skincare routine using suitable products can noticeably improve texture and appearance. This list draws on product details and expert recommendations to highlight seven effective options for managing Keratosis Pilaris.

1. EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment

For people looking for a strong treatment for stubborn skin issues, EMUAIDMAX First Aid Ointment is formulated to relieve a variety of skin concerns, including symptoms linked to Keratosis Pilaris. This homeopathic ointment blends natural ingredients and uses EMUTANEOUS, a transdermal technology, to help its components penetrate deeper into the skin. Key actives include Argentum Metallicum (colloidal silver) for antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral effects; Melaleuca Alternifolia (tea tree oil) for antiseptic and anti-inflammatory support; and Emu Oil, rich in essential fatty acids for moisturization and repair. Some users report visible improvement within 24 hours for certain conditions.

EMUAIDMAX is the maximum-strength formula, with higher concentrations of active ingredients than the regular version — including 2x more Bacillus Ferment, 10x more Tea Tree Oil, and 50x more Vitamin E — aimed at faster, more intensive relief. The ointment avoids artificial preservatives, lanolin, alcohol, parabens, steroids, petrochemicals, and fragrance, which can make it suitable for sensitive skin. While it isn’t marketed solely for KP, its ability to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and reach deeper layers can help address underlying issues, and reviewers often mention relief from pain and itching in difficult-to-treat cases.

2. CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin

The CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin is a commonly recommended choice for KP because it combines exfoliation and hydration. It contains salicylic acid (a BHA) and lactic acid (an AHA) to gently remove dead skin cells and soften rough areas, helping to break down the keratin plugs that create KP bumps. That action smooths the skin’s surface and improves texture.

In addition to exfoliants, the lotion includes three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid draws and holds moisture, and niacinamide reduces inflammation and supports barrier function. The fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula provides both exfoliation and sustained hydration, making it a widely available, highly rated over-the-counter option for reducing redness and bumps.

3. AmLactin Daily Moisturizing Lotion

AmLactin Daily Moisturizing Lotion is known for its relatively high lactic acid content and is often recommended for KP. Lactic acid, an AHA, acts as a chemical exfoliant that loosens and removes dead skin cells, helping to unclog follicles and smooth rough, bumpy patches. With regular use, many people see improvements in both appearance and texture.

Lactic acid also functions as a humectant, attracting moisture into the skin and easing the dryness that commonly accompanies KP. That combination of exfoliation and hydration makes AmLactin effective for softening and moisturizing rough skin. It’s generally affordable and easy to find, which helps with consistent daily use.

4. First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA

If you prefer a scrub that combines physical and chemical exfoliation, the First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub is a strong option. It uses pumice buffing beads for gentle mechanical exfoliation to remove surface dead skin, alongside 10% AHAs — mainly glycolic and lactic acids — that chemically help break down keratin plugs and improve texture.

This two-pronged approach smooths bumps and reduces roughness associated with KP. The formula also contains calming ingredients like bisabolol and moisturizers such as glycerin and dimethicone to relieve irritation, minimize inflammation, and keep skin hydrated. It's intended for sensitive skin when used as directed (typically once or twice a week), and many users notice smoother skin after adding it to their routine.

5. Paula's Choice Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA

Paula's Choice Weightless Body Treatment with 2% BHA (salicylic acid) is a respected chemical exfoliant for KP, especially when body breakouts accompany the condition. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it can penetrate into pores and hair follicles to dissolve excess keratin and sebum, helping to clear the plugs that cause KP bumps and body acne.

The lightweight, non-greasy lotion works to smooth rough texture and can help calm redness and irritation. Alongside salicylic acid, it typically includes soothing agents like bisabolol and allantoin, antioxidants such as Vitamin E, and botanical extracts like chamomile and green tea to further reduce inflammation. The fragrance-free formula provides regular exfoliation to maintain smoother skin when used consistently, and many users find it effective for improving KP and overall texture.

6. Eucerin Roughness Relief Cream

Eucerin Roughness Relief Cream is a solid choice for people with very dry, rough, and bumpy skin. Its main active is urea, which works both as a humectant and a mild exfoliant. Urea helps draw moisture into the skin for deeper hydration and can help break down keratin and loosen dead skin cells, which smooths the surface.

The cream also contains ceramides and sunflower seed oil to support and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, helping prevent further dryness and protecting the skin from irritants that can trigger KP. Typically fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin, Eucerin’s formula offers gentle but effective daily care to reduce bumps and improve texture. Consistent use of urea-containing creams has been shown to enhance smoothness and skin feel.

7. Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion

The Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion is another dermatologist-recommended product aimed at treating KP and similar texture issues. Its effectiveness comes from glycolic acid, a strong AHA that loosens the bonds between dead skin cells so they can be shed, revealing smoother skin beneath. This chemical exfoliation helps break down the keratin formations that cause KP bumps.

Used regularly, the lotion can improve texture, reduce bumps, and even out skin tone. Products with higher glycolic acid concentrations may produce mild tingling at first, which often fades with continued use. Glytone is commonly recommended for addressing the root cause of clogged follicles and is often sold with a matching body wash as part of a treatment set.

Key Takeaways

• Stick to a routine that combines exfoliation and consistent moisturization to manage Keratosis Pilaris.
• AHAs (lactic acid, glycolic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and urea are effective chemical exfoliants for breaking down keratin buildup.
• Hydrating ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and emu oil help restore moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
• Some treatments pair physical and chemical exfoliation for a more thorough approach.
• Choose fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas if you have sensitive skin.

FAQ

Managing Keratosis Pilaris takes patience and a consistent routine. Using the right combination of exfoliation and moisturization can lead to noticeably smoother, softer skin over time. Start with a product or two that fit your skin type and stick with them to see steady improvement.