Why is my skin covered in red bumps? Keratosis Pilaris 101

What is Keratosis Pilaris? And why does it cause red bumps?

Keratosis Pilaris (also known as chicken skin or strawberry skin) is a very common condition: it affects more than half of teenagers and around 40% of adults. It is characterised by a build of excess keratin in the hair follicles which can block the pores causing bumps to form on the skin. These bumps can vary in colour depending on skin tone, with bumps appearing flesh-coloured, white, red, pink or brown. 

KP also often causes: 

• slight pinkness or redness around bumps 
• itchy skin which is easily irritated 
• dry skin 
• a sandpaper like texture to the bumps on the skin 

The condition can appear anywhere on the skin but is most found on the arms and legs, and there is no known permanent cure for the condition, only visible treatments. This is where we come in. 

Many people who have experienced KP don’t know they have it, partly because the condition is so common. That’s why, at Ameliorate, we are proud to educate on this skin condition whilst providing clinically proven, visible improvements. 

Should I be worried? The condition is completely harmless and is not infectious. However, that doesn’t make it any less irritating to deal with.   

Is it related to my hormones? 

The cause of KP is still unknown but research points to the cause being genetic. If it runs in your family, it is more likely that you will have the condition yourself.  

Hormones do seem to have some impact on KP though, with the condition being associated with pubescent, post-partum, as well as menopausal skin. The changing oil levels in the skin associated with hormone fluctuations seem to exacerbate the dryness and irritation caused by KP. 

What can I do at home? 

Along with some more basic steps like taking more warm baths, avoiding tight clothing, and using humidifiers, Ameliorate is here to help exfoliate, moisturise, soothe your skin so you can  

As a brand, Ameliorate was originally established with a mission to formulate KP and ‘chicken skin’ treatments to visibly improve the appearance of this concern. We have since become the number one brand in the UK for treating Keratosis Pilaris.  

Our Hero Products 

TRANSFORMING BODY LOTION 

One of our core products (and a UK first!) Transforming Body Lotion is a lightweight moisturiser that can be used every day on KP skin. Clinically proven to significantly increase moisture levels in the skin for up to 24 hours with Alpha Hydroxy Therapy. Not only, does this product moisturise, exfoliates the skin and improves the appearance of KP within 4 weeks. 

“Ordered some of this and it truly has transformed my skin. After 2 weeks using it my KP has gone, and my skin is incredibly smooth and moisturised. It also feels like it gives your skin a barrier once it soaks in.” Kirstie 

Shop our newest TBL fragrance launch (and staff top pick) Orange Blossom. 

SMOOTHING BODY EXFOLIATOR 

As both a chemical and physical exfoliant, our Smoothing Body Exfoliant uses AHA complexes alongside biodegradable bamboo granules to exfoliate, soften skin and smooth KP bumps by unclogging the hair follicles. Our unique LaH6 complex contains Urea, a superpowered ingredient for moisturising the skin and healing the skin’s barrier.  

“I've used this scrub twice, literally twice and wow what a difference to my KP ‘chicken skin’ legs. My legs have never been so soft.” Ellie 

Pair with our 5-star rated Exfoliating Body Mitt for an even better exfoliation routine.