Is keratosis pilaris itchy?

What does typical keratosis pilaris feel like?

Keratosis pilaris, often shortened to KP, causes patches of tiny bumps that feel rough and dry, like sandpaper. The upper arms, front of the thighs and buttocks are common locations; children also often have bumps on their cheeks. Bumps can match your skin colour or look white, red, pinkish purple or brownish black. They often become more noticeable in winter or a dry climate.2

The bumps form when keratin, a protein found in skin, hair and nails, blocks hair follicles. Keratosis pilaris is harmless and is not infectious: you cannot catch it or pass it on. The bumps are normally painless, even when the surrounding skin feels itchy.34

Why might the itch be worse in winter?

Dry skin can make keratosis pilaris worse. Winter dryness can also cause itching in its own right, especially when skin becomes scaly; dry indoor heat can aggravate it. Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is another possible source of itching and can occur alongside keratosis pilaris. Having rough bumps does not mean every itch comes from those bumps.56

How can you soothe itchy skin?

Start with moisturizing and gentle washing rather than trying to scrub the bumps away. A moisturizer can help soothe the skin, which is a more useful job than sounding impressive on the bathroom shelf.3

1. 1Wash with a mild, unperfumed bathing product. Use lukewarm water rather than hot water, and keep showers to 15 minutes or less.
2. 2Apply moisturizer after showering while the skin is still damp. Use it daily, and reapply several times through the day if needed.
3. 3Leave the bumps alone after moisturizing. Do not scratch, pick or rub the affected skin, and avoid harsh scrubs.

Avoid thick, tight or abrasive clothing that rubs the affected areas. A humidifier is another option for managing dry conditions indoors.15

Will exfoliating stop the itch?

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps smooth the bumps, but it does not relieve the associated redness or itching. Chemical exfoliants such as lactic acid, salicylic acid and urea are generally preferred over vigorous scrubbing. If you use an exfoliant for texture, start two to three times weekly rather than daily. Reduce use if dryness, redness, rash or irritation develops, or your symptoms worsen. Smoothing the bumps is a separate goal from making itchy skin comfortable.1

How long does improvement take?

Improvement in the bumps often takes months, and they are likely to return if treatment stops. Keratosis pilaris can fade slowly with age, but many people have it for years. Treatment is usually unnecessary unless symptoms or the appearance bother you.347

When should you get the itch checked?

Speak to a pharmacist if the skin becomes itchy or inflamed, or your routine is not helping.4

Contact a clinician if symptoms persist, concern you or do not improve with lotions bought without a prescription. Painful bumps are not typical of keratosis pilaris. A clinician can usually identify it by examining the skin, and check whether another condition explains the itching.35