Mitchell J. Mandel, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist, founder · All offices
Keratosis pilaris
Medically reviewed by Mitchell J. Mandel, M.D., F.A.A.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist. Last reviewed .
Keratosis pilaris, or KP, causes small, rough bumps that make skin feel like sandpaper. It is most common on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks and cheeks. KP happens when a protein called keratin plugs hair follicles.
KP is harmless and very common, especially in children, teens and people with eczema. It cannot be cured, but it can be smoothed and made less noticeable.
Signs and symptoms
- Small, rough bumps that look like goosebumps
- Bumps that may be skin-colored, red or darker than surrounding skin
- Dryness that gets worse in winter
How we treat it
- Moisturizers with exfoliating ingredients such as urea, lactic acid or salicylic acid
- Prescription retinoid creams
- In-office treatments such as chemical peels
- Laser treatments for redness or darkening around bumps
Where it is offered
Offered at all of our offices.
Keratosis pilaris Q&A
Will KP go away?
Many people see it improve with age. Treatment works while you use it, so a regular routine helps.
Should I scrub the bumps?
Harsh scrubbing can irritate skin and make KP look worse. Gentle exfoliating moisturizers work better.
Who you can see
Dustin Marks, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Upper East Side
Emily Tongdee, MD, FAAD
Dermatologist · Downtown Brooklyn
Emma Newman, PA-C
Physician assistant · Upper East Side
Grace Jarrett, PA-C
Physician assistant · Downtown Brooklyn
Leah Aminov, PA-C
Physician assistant · Greenvale
Karen Chen, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Paige Yurick, PA-C
Physician assistant · Streeterville
Arielle Ades, DNP, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Francesca Raedel, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Jennifer Telgener, FNP-BC
Nurse practitioner · Boulder
Christine Sacco, FNP-C
Nurse practitioner · Palm Beach Gardens