Afspraak maken

Treating Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (chicken skin)

Keratosis pilaris is a cluster of small, rough bumps — often on the upper arms — caused by a build-up of keratin around the hair follicles. It is a common, harmless skin condition that cannot be permanently cured, but is well managed with medical peels, tailored skincare and, where there is redness, a laser or IPL treatment.

Treating keratosis pilaris
Make an appointment

What treatments do we offer for this?

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris, commonly called "chicken skin", occurs when keratin — a natural skin protein — builds up and plugs the hair follicles. This produces small, firm bumps with a rough texture, often on the upper arms, thighs or cheeks, sometimes with redness. The condition is entirely harmless and not contagious, but many people find the texture cosmetically bothersome.

Can it be cured?

Honest answer: keratosis pilaris cannot be permanently cured, because the tendency is built into the skin. What we can do is clearly smooth the skin and reduce the bumps and redness. In many people the condition also eases on its own over the years. With the right approach, skin becomes noticeably more even and softer.

Which treatment helps?

We tailor the approach to your skin. Possible elements:

  • Medical peels — exfoliate the upper layer, release the follicular plugs and soften the texture.
  • Laser or IPL — especially useful where redness or visible vessels are part of the picture.
  • Microneedling — improves overall skin texture.
  • Tailored home care — keratolytic skincare (urea, lactic or salicylic acid) maintains the result between treatments.

What to expect

Keratosis pilaris usually calls for a maintenance approach rather than a single treatment. A series of peels, combined with good home care, gives the most even result. At the consultation we examine your skin and set out a realistic schedule.

Personal advice

Bothered by the rough texture on your arms? Book a consultation at I Care Clinic for a tailored approach.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is keratosis pilaris?

arrow

Keratosis pilaris ("chicken skin") is a cluster of small, rough bumps caused by a build-up of keratin around the hair follicles, often on the upper arms. It's a common, harmless and non-contagious skin condition that is mainly cosmetically bothersome.

Can keratosis pilaris be cured?

arrow

Not permanently — the tendency is built into the skin. It is well managed, though: medical peels and tailored skincare make skin noticeably smoother and reduce bumps and redness. In many people the condition also eases on its own over the years.

Which treatment helps with chicken skin?

arrow

Medical peels exfoliate the skin and soften the texture. Where there is redness, a laser or IPL treatment can help, and microneedling improves overall texture. Tailored home care with keratolytic ingredients maintains the result.

Does laser help with keratosis pilaris?

arrow

Laser or IPL is mainly useful where redness or visible vessels are part of the picture. For the bumps themselves, peels and exfoliating care are usually the basis. We combine whatever gives the most effect in your case.

Does keratosis pilaris go away on its own?

arrow

In many people it gradually eases with age. It doesn't always disappear fully on its own, but with the right care and treatment the skin can become noticeably more even and softer in the meantime.

What does keratosis pilaris treatment cost?

arrow

The price depends on the chosen approach and number of sessions. Book a consultation for a personal plan and estimate.

Testimonials

I have already been to Dr Decoene for a number of procedures and each time was very satisfied with the personal approach and the result.

Julie M.

4.0 out of 5.0 stars

I Care Clinic helped me with my rosacea and the brown spots on my face. The approach, treatment, service, ... are super professional: everything is gone and my skin is really glowing!
I am super happy!

Hanne R.

5.0 out of 5.0 stars

For years, my drooping eyelids bothered me. I am so happy that I finally dared to take the step and had an eyelid correction performed. The result is really quite what I wanted!

Marianne V.

5.0 out of 5.0 stars