Consultant dermatologists Dr Emma Craythorne and Dr Ellie Rashid explain what keratosis pilaris (KP), also known as strawberry skin or chicken skin, actually is, why it develops around hair follicles, and which evidence-based treatments work best, including lactic acid, urea creams, chemical exfoliants, retinoids, moisturisers and laser hair removal.
In this episode:
What keratosis pilaris (KP) actually is
Why people call it strawberry skin or chicken skin
The real cause of keratosis pilaris
Why KP often runs in families
The connection between hair follicles, keratin and inflammation
Why KP gets worse during winter
The truth about physical exfoliation and scrubs
Lactic acid vs salicylic acid: which works best?
The role of urea creams and moisturisers
When retinoids may help
Why laser hair removal may be one of the most effective treatments
How to prevent redness and pigmentation
Key Takeaways:
Keratosis pilaris affects around 50% of people
Physical scrubbing can make KP worse
Chemical exfoliants outperform mechanical exfoliation
10% lactic acid appears more effective than 5% salicylic acid
Urea-based moisturisers help soften and smooth rough skin
Consistent moisturising supports the skin barrier
SPF helps prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation
Laser hair removal may provide longer-term improvement
Products Mentioned:
Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion
Eucerin UreaRepair
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid
CeraVe SA Smoothing Range
Cetaphil Salicylic Acid Range
Subscribe for evidence-based skincare advice from consultant dermatologists.
Follow & Connect:
Instagram: @afterhoursskinclinic
Email: info@afterhoursskinclinic.com
Producer: Ella Blaxill
Exec: Eve Streeter
Music by Simon Elms.
This is a Raconteur Studios Production.
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