Annoying, tiny bumps on your arms. Dry, patchy skin on your thighs. Worsening of symptoms in the fall and winter. Sound familiar? You may already know this, but this could be Keratosis Pilaris. Don’t freak out. It sounds worse than it is.
Keratosis Pilaris. What the heck is it? Basically, it’s a skin condition that results in dry, rough patches on the skin. The rough patches are often accompanied with really tiny bumps that are neither itchy nor painful.
Generally, this combination of rough skin and small bumps appear on the thighs, upper arms, cheeks, or butt. It’s not anything that is really a cause for concern, and there is no ‘cure’ or prevention remedy.
Keratosis Pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin, which is a protein that protects your skin from external harm and infection. The Keratin builds up and gets in the way of your hair follicles, forming the rough and bumpy skin that this skin condition is known for.
This skin condition is most common in people under 30, as it frequently disappears by that age. If you suffer from Keratosis Pilaris, there are treatments available to help minimize and approve the appearance of your skin – so don’t despair!
Most treatments come in the form of lotions, creams, or body scrubs, but there are other products that are specifically formulated to help benefit your skin. We’ve compiled a list of the best body washes for Keratosis Pilaris. Choose your favorite body wash to add to your bumpy skin-fighting routine, either in combination with other treatments or alone.
Best Body Washes & Soaps for Keratosis Pilaris Reviewed
1. Botanical Tree Glycolic Acid KP Exfoliating Wash
Treat yourself with this exfoliating body wash, thoughtfully scented with calming botanicals, including lavender, ylang-ylang, thyme, and aloe vera. It features a powerful duo of glycolic acid and salicylic acid that work to rid your skin of those pesky dry patches and irritating bumps while the addition of tea tree oil adds to the scent.
Light some candles, play some music, and slather on your favorite lotion — each shower will feel like a trip to the spa with this body wash.
This body wash is gentle enough for frequent use and works excellently as an exfoliator for your whole body, so you’ll be extra smooth. Since it’s sulfate-free, you don’t have to worry about damaging your skin as it’s healing from your Keratosis Pilaris.
2. Touch Keratosis Pilaris Exfoliating Wash
Touch has an entire line of products dedicated to treating Keratosis Pilaris, so you know they mean business. This sulfate-free body wash is loaded with ingredients such as glycolic and salicylic acids that help clear out any roughness on your skin.
At 15% and 2% respectively, glycolic acid and salicylic acid can do wonders for your skin. Glycolic Acid works hard to rid the roughness on the surface of your skin while salicylic acid penetrates deep into the hair follicle to get to the source of both the Keratosis Pilaris and acne.
The Aloe Barbadensis leaf extract combined with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E will help soothe skin after the intense exfoliation. And you don’t have to worry about drying out your skin because this product is alcohol-free. In addition to being alcohol-free, it’s also free of parabens, dyes, and phthalates. And it’s not tested on animals.
3. ReTone Exfoliating Cleanser
This exfoliating body wash contains that oh-so-wonderful ingredient glycolic acid, a star ingredient in products designed for treating KP. It’s a really effective cleanser that helps get rid of bumps and rough skin that may have made themselves home to your arms and legs. It feels so great that you’ll want to use it every day.
This is specifically targeted to people with keratosis pilaris, so you won’t find any salicylic acid to treat body acne. And your skin will never dry out.
On top of that, this pleasant-smelling body cleanser is super gentle, free of retinoids, parabens, and phthalates. This is another great exfoliant that is cruelty-free, so you don’t have to feel guilty on your journey to smooth and clear skin.
4. Glytone Keratosis Pilaris Kit
Glytone has a great kit put together which is essential if you are serious about clearing chicken skin. This power-combo kit is comprised of a body wash, lotion, and loofah. Their products contain a high concentration of glycolic acid to eliminate any hint of bumps or dryness.
But be aware, because of the high concentration of glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid), your skin will be much more susceptible to sun damage. So, it’s important to wear sunscreen all the time.
Use this with the loofah included to add an extra bit of exfoliation to your shower time, and watch as your skin is smooth as ever. What’s more, it’s fragrance-free and gentle enough for daily use, so no stressing about over-exfoliating. There’s no wonder this is one of the best body washes for Keratosis Pilaris. It really is a killer combo!
5. KP Essentials Exfoliating Body Scrub
This exfoliating cleanser is fortified with ingredients to zap dead skin cells. It has a 10% concentration of glycolic acid. If you find your skin is a bit too sensitive for some of the body washes with higher-concentrations, this one is worth a shot.
This was formulated specifically to treat Keratosis Pilaris, but it also contains a ton of skin-loving ingredients to alleviate irritation and inflammation. Almond oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera extract, and vitamins C and E create a heavenly combination for soft, smooth, and irritant-free skin.
The additional ingredient is Retinol Palmitate that also does a ton of heavy lifting. It is an ingredient that helps improve the appearance of KP without increasing your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Of course, it’s always important to wear sunscreen, but this body wash won’t put your skin at an increased risk.
Also: These Are The Best Body Washes for Sensitive Skin
6. Alpha Skincare Moisturizing Body Wash
So, this body wash isn’t necessarily made specifically for treating Keratosis Pilaris, but that doesn’t mean it won’t work. It contains just the right amount of glycolic acid, so those rough bumps don’t stand a chance.
It’s also loaded with vitamin E and aloe vera. After the glycolic acid has worked its magic, the perfect duo of aloe vera and vitamin E will give you soft, smooth, and hydrated new skin underneath.
An added bonus of this body wash is that it has anti-aging properties. So, that new skin we talked about? You’ll be feeling ten years younger.
At a concentration of 1.28%, this is a great choice for people who don’t react too well to AHAs. Since the concentration is on the lower end, you don’t have to worry about your skin getting irritated. However, it may take a little longer for the bumps and dry patches to disappear.
7. Everclearnow Microdermabrasion
This bar of soap will work wonders on your skin. It is a microdermabrasion bar that will work hard to deeply penetrate and exfoliate your skin, all while encouraging the growth of new collagen. It’s also packed with olive oil, jojoba oil, and aloe vera, which act to soothe and protect your skin during the exfoliation process.
It is a simple bar, made in the USA, and comprised of less packaging than the rest. So, it’s a great option if you’re looking to lessen your carbon footprint.
The scent is a lovely combination of lemon citrus and verbena leaf. It’s an easy addition to your shower-time routine to rid your skin of the excess keratin produced. Apply it straight to your skin, or apply with your favorite loofah/exfoliating brush, for maximum exfoliating benefits.
8. Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
If your cheeks are the main source of your skin’s keratin build-up, then the other products on this list might be a bit too aggressive for the more sensitive skin on your face. That’s where this cleanser comes in. It contains glycolic acid galore to fix your skin problem.
What’s more, it also packs hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba oil, tea tree oil, and olive oil. With 2.5% Glycolic Acid, it’s nowhere near as harsh as other products.
It still does its job as a cleanser, penetrating deep into your skin to clear out your pores. It also offers skin-brightening benefits, reducing the appearance of dark spots and other signs of aging.
It’s great for all ages, as it also prevents the recurrence of acne and blackheads. You can literally wash away all of your facial skin concerns with this Keratosis Pilaris-fighting cleanser!
9. Luxiny Glycolic Acid Cleanser
If you’ve made it this far down the list, there’s a good chance you’ve caught on to the importance of glycolic acid in treating Keratosis Pilaris, and that’s exactly what this cleanser does. While at first glance it seems like a face wash, it actually does double-duty and works as an excellent body wash to clear your skin.
It’s also made in the US and the cherry on top? It’s vegan, sulfate-, paraben-, and fragrance-free.
It boasts ingredients like aloe vera and tea tree oil, so your skin will feel smooth, moisturized, and nourished. In addition to fighting keratin build-up, it also combats acne and signs of aging that your skin may be showing.
10. KP Elements Moisturizing and Exfoliating Shower Body Scrub
This all-natural body wash has a wonderful combination of jojoba oil, aloe vera, and Vitamins E and A to hydrate your skin. Glycolic acid, as usual, works to zap Keratosis Pilaris.
Your skin will be exfoliated and hydrated. There are no harsh chemicals or parabens in this American-made body wash. And it’s dermatologist-tested, so you can scrub away with confidence.
Use this natural body wash in the shower, giving a little extra care to your problem areas. Follow up with your favorite hydrating lotion and see the results in as little as a week!
11. Mederma AG Body Cleanser
Mederma has created a line of products to target different skin concerns. This body cleanser is a great option for those suffering from keratosis pilaris. It offers a gentle exfoliation while showering, and can be used generously and often.
The unscented cleanser is non-comedogenic and dermatologist-recommended. It’s also hypoallergenic. So, if you’ve got sensitive skin, this is perfectly formulated for you.
It contains glycolic acid and is pH-balanced. It is a simple option without the fuss, but you’ll want to make sure to follow up with a super-hydrating moisturizer and sunscreen before you head out the door.
Key Ingredients to Look Out For
Glycolic Acid is an AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) derived from sugarcane. It is odorless and colorless. As a chemical, it works to break down the bonds between dead skin cells, so they lift away easier. Since there is no way to fully rid yourself of Keratosis Pilaris, consistently using a body wash and lotion that contains glycolic acid will do wonders to keep your skin smooth.
Aloe Vera is a hard, leafy plant with a gel-type consistency in the leaves. It contains a multitude of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes such as Vitamins A, C, and E. Basically, it works wonders on the skin to hydrate, soothe, and calm any irritants. Aloe Vera is a powerhouse ingredient that is commonly found in a variety of creams, lotions, and body washes to treat and remedy a variety of skin irritants and ailments.
Jojoba (ho-ho-ba) Oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and works wonders for both the skin and hair. Originating from the jojoba plant, native to the southwestern United States, Jojoba Oil is loaded with Vitamin E, it helps reduce redness, and help repair any damage to the skin.
Conclusion
If you were ever worried about your icky red bumps that make it uncomfortable to wear your favorite tank top or t-shirt, then this list has likely given you a huge sigh of relief. With the weather cooling down, there is no better time to switch out your body wash for one that will actually help treat your Keratosis Pilaris and finally rid your skin of the excess Keratin.
Regular soap and water just won’t cut it. Fall and winter are notorious for bringing out the dryness in the skin, so you can definitely prepare from now.
All of the body washes and soaps we’ve reviewed contain a ton of skin-loving ingredients. Your arms and legs will be smooth and soft upon regular application. An added bonus to many of these body washes is the plethora of hydrating and protective ingredients added to these products.
We hope this article helped you find the information you were looking for. You won’t have to cover up the next time you want to wear your favorite tank top.