Kim Answers: Rough, bumpy skin on the back of the 
arms as well as the thighs and sometimes face can be caused by a condition called keratosis pilaris in which dead skin cells clog the hair follicles. While this condition is very common and completely harmless, those who suffer from it can be quite frustrated by its appearance.
arms as well as the thighs and sometimes face can be caused by a condition called keratosis pilaris in which dead skin cells clog the hair follicles. While this condition is very common and completely harmless, those who suffer from it can be quite frustrated by its appearance.
This condition is often genetic (runs in families) and for many people will disappear or greatly improve by the time they reach the age of 30. Unfortunately, it cannot be cured, but the appearance of the skin can be significantly improved with care.
For at-home care, gentle exfoliants can help soften and smooth away even the driest, roughest, bumpiest skin. This may consist of medicated creams containing alpha-hydroxy, lactic or salicylic acid or urea to moisturize and soften dry skin while helping to loosen and remove dead skin cells. Of course, exfoliation should be followed by a good moisturizer. Over time, this can help improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris.
For at-home care, gentle exfoliants can help soften and smooth away even the driest, roughest, bumpiest skin. This may consist of medicated creams containing alpha-hydroxy, lactic or salicylic acid or urea to moisturize and soften dry skin while helping to loosen and remove dead skin cells. Of course, exfoliation should be followed by a good moisturizer. Over time, this can help improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris.
Tips for relieving keratosis:
- Avoid vigorous scrubbing, as this may irritate your skin and aggravate the condition.
- Be gentle! After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry.
- Use a moisturizing lotion or lubricating cream. While your skin is still moist from bathing, apply a moisturizer that contains urea or alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid, chemicals that soften dry, rough skin.
- Try over-the-counter products containing lactic acid. Lactic acid helps remove extra keratin from the surface of the skin.
- During drier months, consider a home humidifier to add moisture to the air inside your home.
While you can’t get rid of this condition permanently, a good skin care regimen with the right products will help reveal smoother, softer skin.
For recommendations on professional-grade home skin care products, contact AVIE! at (703) 737-0197.