We Found the 11 Best Products to Treat Keratosis Pilaris at Home
Fortunately, KP is often treatable. “Exfoliating once a day or two to three times a week can help minimize the rough sensation present in keratosis pilaris,” says Monica Rosales Santillan, MD, with Metropolitan Dermatology in West New York, New Jersey. Keratosis pilaris treatment should also contain a chemical exfoliant, adds Dr. Santillan. “My favorite ingredients to look for in over-the-counter body wash and cream products include lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and urea.” For more stubborn cases, prescription medication and laser treatments are available from your dermatologist.
We consulted dermatologists, investigated keratosis pilaris treatment forums, and read through product reviews to put together our list of the best soaps, lotions, and scrub brushes to treat keratosis pilaris.
Our Top Picks for Keratosis Pilaris Products
- Best Exfoliating Scrub: Skinfix Glycolic+ Renewing Scrub
- Best Gentle Scrub: First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
- Best Budget Soap: Katialis Medicated Soap
- Best Lotion for Redness Reduction: CeraVe SA Cream for Rough & Bumpy Skin
- Best Dermatologist-Recommended Lotion: AmLactin KP Bumps Be Gone
- Best Deep-Moisturizing Lotion: Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS 10% Urea Lotion
- Best for Maintenance: SLMD Body Smoothing System
- Best Lotion for Dry Skin: Vigority KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub and Bump Eraser Body Cream
- Best for Smooth Skin: DERMAdoctor KP Duty Dry Skin Duo
- Best Brush for Deep Exfoliating: Kitsch Exfoliating Gloves
- Best Scrubber for Sensitive Skin: Sud Scrub Antimicrobial Silicone Body Scrubber

Best Exfoliating Scrub
Skinfix Glycolic+ Renewing Scrub
Pros
- Contains both chemical and physical exfoliants
- 15-percent concentration of lactic and glycolic acids
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates
Cons
- Acid concentration may be too strong for sensitive skin
- AHAs may increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun
Key Specs
- Type: Scrub
- Exfoliants: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, bamboo
- Other active ingredients: Willow bark extract

Best Gentle Scrub
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub
Pros
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Contains 10-percent concentration of lactic and glycolic acids
- Includes plant extracts to soothe skin
- Available scented or unscented
Cons
- Pumice can be irritating to some
- AHAs may increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun
Key Specs
- Type: Scrub
- Exfoliants: 10-percent lactic and glycolic acids
- Other active ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, feverfew extract, tea leaf extract, licorice root extract, willow bark extract
Our research found that many users feel this unscented scrub is highly effective against keratosis pilaris, and it leaves their skin smooth and polished-looking without overdrying. Some people enjoyed the scented versions (strawberry, peach), while others found the added smell off-putting. Keep in mind that the active ingredients in these products are notoriously bad-smelling; some say glycolic acid can smell fruity, while lactic acid can smell medicinal. Even if these acids may not smell like much of anything on their own, they’re highly reactive (that’s why we like them) and may have a bad-smelling reaction with another ingredient in the product. So whether scented or not, you may find your product has an unpleasant odor; but, depending on your personal preference, an added scent may help mask that.

Best Budget Soap
Katialis Medicated Soap
Pros
- Most affordable on our list
- Contains sulfur and salicylic acid
- Antimicrobial qualities can help coexisting conditions like acne or body odor
- Zinc oxide helps protect the skin’s natural moisture barrier
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Can be drying
- Mild sulfuric smell
Key Specs
- Type: Lotion
- Exfoliants: Salicylic acid, sulfur
- Other active ingredients: Zinc oxide
In some cases you may notice the smell of sulfur in the soap, but it likely won’t be overpowering. Our research found that the antibacterial properties in this product work great against body odor, making this a solid choice if you’re looking for a basic, all-over soap that also treats keratosis pilaris effectively. Besides the initial low cost, this bar of soap will last you much longer than a bottle of body wash. And if you still want to incorporate a physical scrub, you can simply pair it with one of the scrubbers listed below.

Best Lotion for Redness Reduction
CeraVe SA Cream for Rough & Bumpy Skin
Pros
- Contains ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to moisturize and restore skin
- Includes salicylic acid and lactic acid to exfoliate
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May feel thick and greasy to some
- Lactic acid (AHA) may increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun
Key Specs
- Type: Lotion
- Exfoliants: Salicylic acid, lactic acid
- Other active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides

Best Dermatologist-Recommended Lotion
AmLactin KP Bumps Be Gone
Pros
- Dermatologist recommended
- Powerful concentration of lactic acid
- Specifically formulated for KP
- No parabens or phthalates
Cons
- Only available in 3-ounce size
- Lactic acid may increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun
Key Specs
- Type: Lotion
- Exfoliant: 15-percent lactic acid
- Other active ingredients: None

Best Deep-Moisturizing Lotion
Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS 10% Urea Lotion
Pros
- Urea doubles as an exfoliant and moisturizer
- Includes ceramides for extra moisture
- Suitable for face and body
- No AHAs means no added sensitivity to sun
Cons
- Urea may crystallize at high temperatures
Key Specs
- Type: Lotion
- Exfoliant: Urea
- Other active ingredients: Ceramides, other natural moisturizers
While Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS 10% Urea Lotion has only half that concentration, it’s still a great alternative for anyone who can’t tolerate other chemical exfoliants well because it contains no AHAs. It also won’t increase sensitivity to the sun, making it a great choice for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.

Best for Maintenance
SLMD Body Smoothing System
Pros
- Recommended for daily use
- Contains glycolic acid and pumice
- Includes aloe, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some find the smell to be very strong
- Lotion may be less moisturizing than a cream
Key Specs
- Type: Lotion and soap
- Exfoliant: 10-percent glycolic acid, pumice
- Other active ingredients: Aloe, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, a combined lotion and soap set is a great way to get products you know will work well together. This set from Sandra Lee, MD, aka the YouTube-famous Dr. Pimple Popper, is designed specifically for keratosis pilaris. It includes a body wash that exfoliates with pumice and glycolic acid and a 10-percent glycolic acid–based body lotion. Unlike some stronger products that should only be used two to three times a week, this system is designed for daily use, making it a good choice for keeping your KP in check when it’s not flaring up.
Both the scrub and the lotion contain hydrating moisturizers, aloe, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to soothe the skin. While this product states it has no added fragrance, our research found it has a slightly sweet floral smell.

Best Lotion for Dry Skin
Vigority KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub and KP Bump Eraser Body Cream
Pros
- Contains many natural moisturizers, including jojoba oil, avocado oil, and shea butter
- Scrub contains glycolic and lactic acids and pumice buffing beads
- Includes allantoin to help exfoliate and soothe
Cons
- Lotion may feel less moisturizing than a cream
Key Specs
- Type: Scrub and lotion set
- Exfoliants: 10-percent concentration of glycolic and lactic acids, pumice
- Other active ingredients: Mandelic acid, salicylic acid, shea butter, avocado oil, jojoba seed oil, hyaluronic acid, calendula extract, allantoin

Best for Smooth Skin
DERMAdoctor KP Duty Dry Skin Duo
Pros
- Many ingredients target all-around skin health, not just KP
- Contains 10-percent AHAs and PHAs, including glycolic and lactic acids (AHAs), luconolactone, and lactobionic acid (PHAs)
- Hydrated silica provides gentler exfoliation than other scrubs
- Contains urea and willow bark extract as added exfoliants
- Includes botanical extracts to reduce redness, hydrate, soothe, and protect skin
Cons
- Priciest on our list
Key Specs
- Type: Scrub
- Exfoliant: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, lactobionic acid, gluconolactone, hydrated silica
- Other active ingredients: Willow bark extract, evening primrose oil, borage seed oil, black currant seed oil, white tea leaf extract, licorice root extract, Indian frankincense gum extract, ceramides, squalane, cupuaçu seed butter

Best Brush for Deep Exfoliating
Kitsch Exfoliating Gloves
Pros
- Coarse fabric can help provide deep exfoliation
- Plant-based material
- Reusable
- Exfoliate with any nonexfoliating soap
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
- No chemical exfoliant
Key Specs
- Type: Scrubber
- Exfoliant: Rough, plant-based fabric glove
- Other active ingredients: None
If the thought of trading in your favorite bath products sounds unappealing, there’s always the most long-standing form of exfoliation: a humble washcloth. I had keratosis pilaris as a teen and didn’t know what it was, nor had I ever heard of a chemical exfoliant. But physical exfoliation was enough to manage my symptoms until it went away on its own a few years later. I love this exfoliating glove because it’s lightweight, dries quickly, and I prefer the gentle prickle of the fabric over any grit scrub I’ve tried. It fits easily over your entire hand, and you don’t have to use a death grip to get a firm scrub like you would with a shower poof.
That said, be gentle: Overly aggressive scrubbing can aggravate your keratosis pilaris, particularly the redness. If you opt for a reusable scrub tool, use it gently and not more than a few times a week. Pairing a scrubber with a chemical exfoliant body wash works well, but don’t use this with any products that already contain a physical exfoliant because it may be uncomfortable and too rough on your skin.

Best Scrubber for Sensitive Skin
Sud Scrub Antimicrobial Silicone Body Scrubber
Pros
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Reusable
- Use with any nonexfoliating soap
Cons
- No chemical exfoliant
Key Specs
- Type: Body scrubber
- Exfoliant: Soft silicone scrubbers
- Other active ingredients: None
It doesn’t produce as much lather as more absorbent scrub brushes, but it’s also more durable and lasts longer.
How We Chose the Best Products to Treat Keratosis Pilaris
We got product and treatment recommendations from Physician Assistant Tamar Mermelstein and Monica Rosales Santillan, MD, at Metropolitan Dermatology in Jersey City and West New York, New Jersey. We also joined online keratosis pilaris skin care forums to gain insight into which products were popular, and why. We also read product reviews across several retailers to pick the best performing products for treating keratosis pilaris.
What to Look For When Buying Products to Treat Keratosis Pilaris
There are several factors to consider when selecting an over-the-counter product for keratosis pilaris. First, what are you trying to achieve? Do you need something to smooth out bumps? Look for products with chemical exfoliators like lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or urea in addition to physical exfoliators like pumice. If you’re more concerned about redness and dryness, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and oils that can soothe and moisturize. If you have sensitive skin or conditions like acne or eczema, products that contain lower concentrations of chemical exfoliants may be better options.
Think about what’s most convenient for your lifestyle: a soap or scrub for the shower or a lotion to keep in your bag or both. Also, since treating keratosis pilaris can be a long-term commitment, choosing a product that you know you’ll use and that fits your budget is also important.
What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?
Are OTC Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris Effective?
“Both over-the-counter treatments and prescription medications are effective in improving the appearance of keratosis pilaris,” Santillan says. “Treatment selection depends on what the patient would like to improve about their condition. OTC chemical exfoliants effectively smoothen the rough texture, while prescribed topicals can also address the inflammation.”
When Will I See Results From Keratosis Pilaris Treatments?
For many people, treating keratosis pilaris involves regular, active maintenance, with symptoms returning if treatment is stopped. “Keratosis pilaris is a harmless skin condition and can be managed with OTC exfoliants long-term,” says Santillan. “If you develop KP during adolescence, it’s still possible your skin condition will improve or go away eventually.”
How Does Prescription Treatment Differ From OTC Treatment?
Prescription treatments may prescribe higher concentrations of the same exfoliants used in over-the-counter lotions, such as urea, but they can also go beyond that with medications called topical immunomodulators (TIMs). “OTC treatments are a good starting point, but prescription creams can be considered if no improvement is seen with OTC options. These [medicated creams] may improve the redness associated with keratosis pilaris,” says Santillan. Prescription creams can help prevent the skin from overproducing keratin to begin with, reducing the keratin buildup before it even starts.
FAQs
- Keratosis Pilaris. Cleveland Clinic. April 15, 2022.
- Karwal K et al. Topical AHA in Dermatology: Formulations, Mechanisms of Action, Efficacy, and Future Perspectives. Cosmetics. September 19, 2023.
- Feng X et al. Lactic Acid Chemical Peeling in Skin Disorders. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2024.
- Shara M et al. Efficacy and Safety of White Willow Bark (Salix Alba) Extracts. Phytotherapy Research. August 2015.
- Paudel D et al. A Review of Health-Beneficial Properties of Oats. Foods. October 26, 2021.
- Feverfew. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. February 2025.
- Kang MH et al. Antioxidant and Anti-Melanogenic Activities of Heat-Treated Licorice (Wongam, Glycyrrhiza Glabra × G. Uralensis) Extract. Current Issues in Molecular Biology. September 18, 2021.
- Schneider T et al. Selective Antimicrobial Activity Associated With Sulfur Nanoparticles. Journal of Biomedical Nanotechnology. June 2011.
- Sykes EME et al. Salicylic Acids and Pathogenic Bacteria: New Perspectives on an Old Compound. Canadian Journal of Microbiology. January 2024.
- Nijhuis WA et al. A Randomised Trial of Honey Barrier Cream Versus Zinc Oxide Ointment. British Journal of Nursing. November 7, 2012.
- Salwowska NM et al. Physiochemical Properties and Application of Hyaluronic Acid: A Systematic Review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. December 2016.
- Coderch L et al. Ceramides and Skin Function. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. February 2003.
- Piquero-Casals J et al. Urea in Dermatology: A Review of Its Emollient, Moisturizing, Keratolytic, Skin Barrier Enhancing and Antimicrobial Properties. Dermatology and Therapy. December 2021.
- Reddy S et al. A Narrative Review on the Role of Acids, Steroids, and Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris. Cureus. October 20, 2021.
- Pullar JM et al. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. August 12, 2017.
- McCormick E et al. Evaluation of a Moisturizing Cream With 20% Urea for Keratosis Pilaris. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. January 2024.
- What Is Allantoin? And What Does It Do for Your Skin (and More)? Cleveland Clinic. August 2, 2024.
- Jacobs SW et al. Effects of Topical Mandelic Acid Treatment on Facial Skin Viscoelasticity. Facial Plastic Surgery. December 2018.
- Wang X et al. The Role of Linoleic Acid in Skin and Hair Health: A Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. December 30, 2024.
- Skincare Acids: AHA, BHA, and PHA. Associated Skin Care Professionals. September 27, 2023.
- Raja FNS et al. The Antimicrobial Efficacy of Copper, Cobalt, Zinc and Silver Nanoparticles: Alone and in Combination. Biomedical Materials. July 2023.
- Tian Y et al. Clinical Outcomes and 5-Year Follow-Up Results of Keratosis Pilaris Treated by a High Concentration of Glycolic Acid. World Journal of Clinical Cases. June 26, 2021.
- Maghfour J et al. Treatment of Keratosis Pilaris and Its Variants: A Systematic Review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment. 2020.
Why Trust Everyday Health

Mary Dennis
Author
Mary Dennis is a Singaporean American health and science writer based in New York. Her work has been published in the Beijinger, Nautilus, South China Morning Post, Motherly, and Verywell Mind.
Her interest in covering mental health increased after the pandemic revealed our society's increasing need for care and information about how to manage our emotional health. She is passionate about maternal mental health issues in particular, and is the founder of Postpartum Brain, a website designed to educate and encourage people to learn more about perinatal mental health issues.
Mary has a masters degree in science journalism from Columbia University.

Daniel Oakley
Fact-Checker
Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.
Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.
