The Best Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris, According to Dermatologists

You know how your skin can get all goosebumpy when you watch a Jordan Peele movie, or you go out in the first chill of autumn wearing a short-sleeved tee? Well, for some people, those bumps are a constant presence, and they have nothing to do with being spooked or cold. Keratosis pilaris, or KP, is a harmless but annoying condition in which the skin on your arms, thighs, face or butt can feel scaly, dry and bumpy.

"Often referred to as chicken skin, KP does indeed have that pebbly, slightly gritty texture to touch,” explains Mona A. Gohara, MD, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Gohara explains that KP is mostly due to genetics — thanks, Mom and Dad! But you're in good company: "KP affects 40 to 80% of the general population at some time in their life, and it affects all races and ages," says Stephen Matlock, MD, a dermatologist with U.S. Dermatology Partners in Joplin, MO.

The condition crops up often even among adolescents, with up to 80% experiencing the skin bumps — many simply outgrow it by the time they become adults. While the bumps don’t hurt or itch, and they don't require any treatment, they can definitely be annoying when you want your skin to look its smoothest in shorts or a tank top. The best way to treat KP is with topical creams designed to break down the keratin spikes, says Dr. Gohara, who recommends products that include alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as lactic acid, glycolic acid or urea. "Depending on your budget, there are dozens of over-the-counter creams and medicated creams that work well," says Dr. Matlock.

While it's always best to check with your dermatologist before treating any skin conditions, here are 12 products that the experts we spoke to — and online reviewers with KP — say really work.