Found: A Product That Actually Smoothes My Rough Arm Bumps From KP

I've struggled with tiny bumps along the back of my arms for as long as I can remember—and I'm not alone. The uneven texture and persistent redness is a result of keratosis pilaris (KP), an extremely common skin condition that affects approximately 40% of adults.

Unfortunately, there is no known "cure" for KP, per se, but many over-the-counter products help reduce the physical signs of the condition. I've tested out countless KP-focused formulas—chemical exfoliating serums, harsh salt scrubs, dry brush tools, and body lotions—in hopes of unveiling smoother, more even-toned arms. 

Have you ever struggled with persistent bumps and redness on the back of your arms? Maybe it shows up on the front of your thighs, or even on the buttocks. This bumpy texture, often called chicken skin, could be a condition called KP. (Check with your dermatologist for final confirmation.) 

While KP may look like small pimples, it's actually not related to acne whatsoever. The bumps consist of a buildup of keratin (which is the main structural protein of the hair) and dead skin cells. 

Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid only irritated my KP, as it dried out my skin. When I visited my dermatologist, they recommended I switch to alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), a gentler exfoliant.

My quest for a gentle yet effective AHA formula led me to the First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser. The popular formula had more than 16,000 five-star ratings on Amazon from impressed shoppers calling it their holy grail—and you can officially add me to the list.

The KP Bump Eraser is both a physical and chemical exfoliator. Tiny pumice beads gently buff away dead skin cells with abrasion, while a combo of glycolic and lactic acid chemically exfoliates the skin by breaking apart the bonds between dead and alive skin cells. 

Once or twice a week, I use this scrub in the shower. The most important thing is to let the pumice beads do the work—not your hands. This means lightly rubbing the scrub on the affected area without pressing too hard to prevent unnecessary irritation or microtears in the skin.