Keratosis Pilaris (KP) on Indian Skin: Causes and What Actually Helps
The little bumps on the backs of your arms (and sometimes thighs and cheeks) are keratosis pilaris — KP for short. Up to 40% of adults have it. Here is what actually helps.
What KP Is
Hair follicles fill with excess keratin (a structural protein) and form small, rough bumps. Genetic — it runs in families. Often more visible on dry, fair skin and Indian wheatish skin tones.
It is harmless. Cosmetic, not medical.
What Does Not Work
Mechanical scrubbing. Most physical exfoliators irritate KP rather than improve it. Heavy occlusive moisturiser alone barely changes the bumps.
What Actually Works
Salicylic acid body wash (2–3x a week) — dissolves the keratin plugs from within the follicle.
Lactic acid or urea body lotion (10% concentration) — chemical exfoliation that smooths over 4–8 weeks.
Combination: SA wash + AHA lotion = visible improvement within a month.
Maintenance
KP is genetic — the routine maintains rather than cures. Drop the routine and bumps return within 6–8 weeks.
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