Ever noticed rough, bumpy skin on your arms, thighs or buttocks - and wondered what it is?
You’re not alone - and you’re certainly not doing anything wrong.
That rough, uneven texture is likely keratosis pilaris - a common, harmless skin condition often nicknamed "chicken skin" because of its dotted appearance.
The good news?
While there’s no instant cure, the right gentle, consistent care can dramatically smooth and soften your skin - without irritation, harsh treatments or endless trial and error.
Let’s dive into what causes keratosis pilaris and how you can care for your skin naturally.
What Is Keratosis Pilaris?
Keratosis pilaris (KP) happens when keratin, a natural protein in your skin, builds up and blocks your hair follicles.
Instead of shedding away naturally, this hardened keratin plug causes tiny, rough bumps that you can feel - and sometimes see - on the surface of your skin.
Common signs of KP include:
- Rough, bumpy texture (like very fine sandpaper)
- Tiny, dry-looking spots (white, red, or skin-coloured)
- Mild redness or irritation around hair follicles
It most often appears on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes cheeks.
KP isn’t harmful - but if it’s making you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, there are simple, gentle ways to manage and smooth it.
What Causes It?
Several factors can make keratosis pilaris more likely, including:
- Genetics (if a parent has it, you’re more likely to have it too)
- Dry or dehydrated skin
- Conditions like eczema or allergies that compromise the skin barrier
- Cold, dry climates that dry out your skin further
The key to improving KP lies in consistent, gentle care - not scrubbing or stripping the skin.
How to Smooth Keratosis Pilaris Naturally
1. Gently Exfoliate Regularly
Removing dead skin build-up helps unclog hair follicles and smooth rough patches over time.
Our Exfoliating Tonic, powered by natural willow bark extract (a gentle source of salicylic acid), helps:
- Loosen dead skin cells without harsh scrubbing
- Clear clogged follicles
- Calm redness and irritation
Use 2–3 times a week after cleansing - no rubbing required.
A note on dry brushing:
While some people try dry brushing to smooth keratosis pilaris, even soft brushes can sometimes irritate already sensitive skin.
For safer, more effective results, we recommend gentle exfoliation combined with daily hydration - a much kinder, more skin-friendly approach to smoothing rough, bumpy areas.
2. Buff Away Bumps with a Natural Body Scrub
A physical exfoliation can also help, as long as it’s gentle and hydrating.
Our Body Scrub uses fine natural powders and nourishing oils to:
- Smooth away roughness
- Hydrate while exfoliating
- Support healthy skin barrier function
Use it 1–2 times a week in the shower, using light circular motions — think massage, not scrubbing.
3. Deeply Hydrate Every Day
Dry, dehydrated skin worsens KP.
Keeping your skin supple, hydrated and protected helps prevent future keratin build-up.
Apply a nourishing oil like Daily Treatment Oil straight after showering to lock in moisture, support your skin barrier and encourage smoother, healthier skin over time.
Your Simple KP-Smoothing Routine
✅ Exfoliate gently 2–3 times a week
✅ Use a natural body scrub 1–2 times a week
✅ Moisturise daily with barrier-supporting oils
Consistency - not force - is what makes the difference.
Real Results, Real Confidence
At Folli Oil, we believe healthy skin isn’t about perfection - it’s about feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin.
With the right, plant-powered care, you can transform rough, bumpy skin into softer, smoother skin you can feel proud of - naturally.
Discover Exfoliating Tonic and Daily Treatment Oil — your simple, trusted partners for smoother, more radiant skin.
You might also like to read:
How to Exfoliate the Right Way (Without Damaging Your Skin)
Best Natural Oils for Healing Irritated, Dry or Damaged Skin