Keratosis pilaris (KP), also known as “chicken skin”, is commonly described as a form of dry skin characterised by hair follicles clogged by scale (keratin).

The condition occurs in up to 50 per cent of the population, so common that it is considered a variant of normal skin. Most frequently, it affects children with atopic eczema and although it is most prominent during the teenage years, it may still occur in children and adults of all ages.

Symptoms appear as scaly spots that may be skin coloured, red, or brown; and is usually on the backs of the arms, but can also develop on the thighs, the buttocks, as well as the sides of the cheeks, and less often on the forearms and upper back.

Low humidity, such as in the winter months, often allows KP to be more prominent. Affected individuals do not feel any itchiness or soreness from it.


There is currently no cure for KP, but it does improve with treatment.

Sydney dermatologist Dr Shreya Andric suggests the following products available at Chemist Warehouse may be helpful:

Soap-free washes – harsh soap may increase dryness, leading to rougher skin and more prominent spots.


Using a chemical or physical exfoliant in the shower – using a wash with salicylic acid may unclog the hair follicles, like the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash.

Other good exfoliant options are the Mecca Athletica Skin Perfecting Body Wash AHA/PHA blend and the La Roche Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Gel. Using a sponge/loofah when showering may also be helpful.

Moisturising creams that contain urea, salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids also help. Dr Andric recommends the Lanate Face & Body Cream, which contains ammonium lactate and can be used once or twice daily.

CeraVe SA Smoothing Cream contains salicylic acid and lactic acid but is also very gentle and locks in hydration with hyaluronic acid.

Topical retinoids – your dermatologist can prescribe these. These often help increase cell turnover, thus preventing the follicles from being blocked in the first place.

Pulsed dye laser treatment or intense pulsed light (IPL) – may help to temporarily ease redness, but not the roughness.

Laser hair removal (LHR) – Dr Andric finds this to be the most effective solution. A reduction in hair follicles means fewer of them would be blocked. Speak with your GP or dermatologist before undertaking a course of LHR, as not all people are candidates for the solution.