Understanding Keratosis Pilaris (KP): Causes, Symptoms & How to Smooth Your Skin Naturally

Understanding Keratosis Pilaris (KP): Causes, Symptoms & How to Smooth Your Skin Naturally

Keratosis pilaris (or simply KP) often referred to as strawberry skin is a very common, harmless skin condition that affects people of all ages. Although not dangerous, KP can be stubborn, rough, and frustrating, especially when it appears on visible areas like your arms, legs, or cheeks.


What Is Keratosis Pilaris (KP)?

Keratosis pilaris happens when excess keratin, a natural protein in your skin, builds up in hair follicles instead of shedding normally. This creates clusters of tiny bumps that can make skin feel dry, patchy, and rough.

Although the exact cause isn’t fully known, KP often runs in families and is more noticeable in people with dry or sensitive skin. It’s not contagious, and it doesn’t usually signal a serious health problem.

Common Symptoms of Keratosis Pilaris

People with KP typically notice:

  • Small bumps on the skin that may feel rough or sandpaper-like

  • Bumps that are the same colour as your skin or slightly red or brown

  • Dry or itchy areas especially in winter or dry climates

  • Common locations include the backs of upper arms, thighs, buttocks and sometimes cheeks or neck

These bumps usually aren’t painful, but they can make skin feel textured and less smooth than you’d like.

Why KP Gets Worse in Dry Conditions

Dry skin can make Keratosis Pilaris more noticeable and persistent because lack of moisture encourages keratin build-up and irritation. Many people notice their KP gets more pronounced in winter or during prolonged dry weather.

For this reason, a hydrating skincare routine combined with gentle exfoliation is one of the best ways to minimise the appearance of KP bumps.

Effective Skincare for Keratosis Pilaris

There’s no permanent cure for KP, but you can dramatically improve the appearance and feel of your skin with the right approach.

1. Gentle Cleansing

  • Use a mild, non-stripping body wash that doesn’t dry your skin out. Strong soaps can worsen bumps and irritation.

2. Moisturisation

  • Hydrating the skin helps reduce the rough, bumpy texture associated with KP. Look for products that lock in moisture and support your skin’s natural barrier.

3. Targeted Treatment Creams

  • Creams formulated specifically for Keratosis Pilaris help to break down excess keratin, smooth rough areas, and hydrate deeply. Studies and skincare experts agree that consistent product use over several weeks is key to seeing real results.

How Grahams Natural KP Cream Helps Improve Skin Texture

If you’re struggling with rough, bumpy skin from Keratosis Pilaris, Grahams Natural KP Cream is designed to help target the underlying causes while nourishing your skin.

This specialised formulation:

  • Gently exfoliates excess keratin (one of the main contributors to KP bumps)

  • Includes ingredients like urea, lactic acid and fall-friendly moisturisers to unclog pores and soften rough areas

  • Enhances hydration with moisture-locking components that help repair and strengthen the skin barrier

  • Leaves skin smoother and more refined without irritating sensitive skin

The cream absorbs quickly, has a non-greasy feel, and is suitable for daily use on affected areas like upper arms, legs, and even cheeks.

Because it combines exfoliating and moisturising actions in one formula, it’s ideal for anyone whose KP is aggravated by dryness or seasonal changes.

Tips for Best Results

✔ Apply KP Cream twice daily (morning and night) to improve texture and keep bumps under control
✔ Use it after a gentle cleanse to lock in hydration
✔ Be consistent! Improvements take time, but regular use can make skin noticeably smoother


Check out Grahams Natural KP Cream and give rough, bumpy skin the treatment it deserves.