How to get rid of Chicken Skin (Keratosis Pilaris)

Either you’ve clicked on this post because you have chicken skin OR you wanted to know what on earth that means. Either way, you’re in the right place! It’s a nickname for Keratosis pilaris (KP). According to the Mayo Clinic,

“Keratosis pilaris is a common, harmless skin condition that causes dry, rough patches and tiny bumps, usually on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks. The bumps generally don’t hurt or itch. Keratosis pilaris is often considered a variant of normal skin”.

I didn’t know I had KP until a few months ago. I’ve always thought it was body acne (on my upper arms) and my rough skin was just from the drying products I used trying to clear up those breakouts.

It wasn’t until I had one large bump that I picked at. It made it 100x worse (I later found out this inflames KP). So I took to Google to see what zit cream would work best, that’s where I discovered I didn’t have body acne. I had Keratosis pilaris.

I immediately tested every remedy online, and I mean EVERYTHING. I finally found a great combo that cleared up my bumps practically overnight. Now my arm skin feels like a baby, and I have no bumps at all. I’m only mad I didn’t try this out sooner! Below is everything I use.

1. Nair – you don’t want to shave, it can irritate the KP. I use Nair once or twice a month to eliminate my blonde baby hairs (Y’all know I like to be hairless like a dolphin lol).

2. Exfoliate- This is maybe the most important step. I use this Tree Hut scrub. The secret is to scrub your rough skin before you turn on the water. Dry exfoliating has been SO helpful, and I get immediate smooth results. I do this all over my body now with a dry brush, and it’s amazing!

3. Cleanse- I highly recommend using this cleanser because of the Salicylic Acid in it. This is anti-bacteria fighting acid (also, the active ingredient that you want to use for treating blackheads and whiteheads) I apply this on damp skin in a circular motion for about a minute.

4. Moisturize- I also use a lotion with Salicylic Acid in it. The active ingredient is key for keeping future bumps away.

That’s it! Easy enough and all the products are budget-friendly (score!). Repetition is key for keeping your smooth results going so don’t forget to do this every time you shower.

If you’ve tried anything else for your KP that worked, please let me know below!

Til next time,

 

Leave a Comment

  1. 8.25.19
    CJ said:

    Hi, often do you use Nair for the KP? And do you use the scrub immediately after the Nair then followed by the body wash and moisturizer? I’ve got KP on my back and absolutely hate how my back looks! Thanks!

  2. 4.13.20
    Alexa said:

    Hi! I actually use all of those products minus Nair, because I’ve heard it can aggravate KP. Have you noticed any irritation after using it? Thanks for sharing!

    • 4.15.20
      Madison Payne said:

      Hi Alexa! I haven’t really noticed that but shaving does irritate it. Nair lasts me much longer than shaving so in the long run its better even if it does. Eventually I want to get laser hair removal done on my areas with KP.

  3. 7.29.20
    Melissa said:

    Do you use Nair on your entire body?