Keratosis Pilaris (KP): The Complete Australian Guide
Keratosis pilaris, often called KP, is a common body skin concern that appears as rough, bumpy skin, usually on the upper arms, thighs, legs or buttocks. It is sometimes described as “chicken skin” because the skin can feel dry, raised and uneven.
Quick Answer
Keratosis pilaris happens when keratin builds up around hair follicles, creating small rough bumps. It is harmless, but it can be frustrating. KP cannot usually be “cured”, but the look and feel of rough, bumpy skin can often be improved with consistent exfoliation, hydration and barrier-supportive body care.
What is keratosis pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition where dead skin cells and keratin collect around hair follicles. This can create tiny bumps that feel rough or dry. KP is not contagious, and it is not caused by poor hygiene.
Where does KP usually appear?
- Upper arms
- Thighs
- Legs
- Buttocks
- Occasionally cheeks or other dry areas
What causes keratosis pilaris?
KP is linked to keratin build-up around follicles. It can also be influenced by genetics, dry skin, seasonal changes, hormones and skin barrier function. Many people notice KP feels worse in winter when the air is dry and skin becomes more dehydrated.
Important: KP is common and usually harmless. If bumps are painful, inflamed, infected, rapidly changing or causing concern, speak with a healthcare professional.
Common signs of KP
- Small rough bumps
- Dry or sandpapery texture
- Red, brown or skin-coloured dots
- Uneven body texture
- Skin that looks worse after dryness, shaving or irritation
KP vs strawberry legs
KP and strawberry legs can look similar, but they are not always the same. KP is usually linked to rough follicular bumps. Strawberry legs often describe the look of dark dots on the legs, which may be linked to follicles, shaving, dryness or congestion.
Best ingredients for KP-prone body skin
Helps exfoliate surface build-up and smooth rough-feeling texture.
Helps soften and hydrate rough, dry body skin.
Supports the skin barrier and helps uneven-looking tone.
Help support hydration, comfort and smoother-looking skin.
Can glycolic acid help KP?
Glycolic acid can help improve the look and feel of KP-prone skin by exfoliating the surface of the skin. For body skin, the formula matters: percentage, pH and hydration support should work together.
Why moisturiser alone may not be enough
A basic moisturiser can help dryness, but KP often needs both exfoliation and hydration. That is why a body lotion designed with exfoliating acids and barrier-supportive ingredients can be more effective than a simple body cream.
A simple KP body routine
Night routine
- Cleanse with a gentle body wash.
- Pat skin dry completely.
- Apply glycolic acid body lotion 2–3 nights per week.
- Increase gradually if your skin tolerates it.
- Use SPF on exposed areas during the day.
What not to do with KP
- Do not aggressively scrub the bumps.
- Do not pick or squeeze KP bumps.
- Do not apply acids straight after shaving.
- Do not use on broken, irritated or sunburnt skin.
- Do not expect overnight results — consistency matters.
Why KP may look worse in Australia
Australian skin is often exposed to sun, heat, shaving, fake tan, dry air, air conditioning and frequent body product use. These factors can make roughness, dryness and uneven body texture more noticeable.
How long does KP take to improve?
KP usually improves gradually. Some people notice softer skin within a few weeks, while visible texture changes may take longer. The key is a consistent routine that avoids irritation.
The Lotion and KP-prone skin
The Lotion is formulated with 12% glycolic acid at pH 3.6–4.0, supported by urea, niacinamide, glycerin, shea butter and aloe vera. It was designed for rough, bumpy, dry and uneven-looking body skin.
Looking for smoother KP-prone skin?
The Lotion is a 12% glycolic acid body lotion made for KP, strawberry legs, rough texture and dry body skin.
Shop The LotionKeratosis Pilaris FAQs
Is keratosis pilaris common?
Yes. KP is very common and usually harmless.
Is KP contagious?
No. KP is not contagious.
Can KP be cured?
KP usually cannot be permanently cured, but it can often be managed with consistent skincare.
Does glycolic acid help KP?
Glycolic acid may help smooth rough texture by exfoliating surface build-up.
Should I scrub KP?
No. Harsh scrubbing can irritate the skin and make KP look worse.
Can I use glycolic acid after shaving?
It is better to avoid glycolic acid immediately after shaving because it may sting.
Is KP the same as strawberry legs?
Not always. They can overlap, but strawberry legs usually refers to visible dots on the legs, while KP refers to rough follicular bumps.
How often should I use a KP body lotion?
Start 2–3 nights per week and increase only if your skin tolerates it.