Keratosis Pilaris in Children: Rough Bumps, Skin Care, and When to Seek Help

An independent educational resource prepared by Mark M. Simonian, MD, FAAP

Sources checked: August 13, 2026     |     Medical review completed: August 13, 2026

This page is for general education only and does not replace individualized medical advice. This resource does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. For questions about your own child, contact your child's current healthcare professional.

Magnolia Pediatrics, Valley Children's Healthcare

2497 E. Herndon Avenue, Suite 101, Clovis, CA 93611     |     559-538-3070

Keratosis pilaris causes harmless, tiny rough bumps that many families call chicken skin. It is common in children, often runs in families, and may be more noticeable with dry skin or eczema. It is not contagious and does not become an infection.

When to Seek Care

Get emergency medical care now

  • A rash with severe trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, fainting, a seizure, or a child who is limp or unresponsive.

  • A child who looks very ill, has a rapidly spreading painful rash, or has signs of a serious skin infection.

Contact your child's healthcare professional

  • The bumps are painful, very itchy, ooze, form pus or yellow crusting, have spreading redness or warmth, or occur with fever.

  • The rash is widespread, changes quickly, or you are unsure whether it is keratosis pilaris, eczema, acne, an infection, or another condition.

  • The bumps remain troublesome despite consistent gentle skin care, or the child is bothered by itching, dryness, or appearance.

What Keratosis Pilaris Looks Like

Keratosis pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin, a normal skin protein, around hair follicles. The bumps can feel like fine sandpaper or goose bumps. They are often skin colored, but may be pink, red, brown, or darker than the surrounding skin depending on skin tone.

The outer upper arms and front of the thighs are common locations. Children may also have bumps on the cheeks. The condition is often more noticeable in winter or dry weather and may improve during warmer, more humid months. It tends to improve gradually with age, although it may come and go for years.

Gentle Daily Skin Care

  • Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Take short, warm rather than hot baths or showers.

  • Pat skin dry and apply a plain, fragrance-free cream or ointment while the skin is still slightly damp. Regular moisturizing often makes the bumps feel less rough and reduces dryness.

  • Avoid scrubbing, picking, harsh exfoliating tools, and rough washcloths. These can irritate the skin and make the redness or bumps more noticeable.

  • Choose soft clothing and avoid products that sting, burn, or leave the skin more dry.

Products for Rough Bumps

Some over-the-counter products designed for rough, dry skin contain ingredients such as urea, lactic acid, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid. These products can irritate sensitive skin, especially in young children or in areas with eczema. Ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist which product, strength, and frequency are appropriate for your child before using a medicated exfoliating product.

Use only one new product at a time. Stop it and seek advice if it causes persistent burning, marked redness, peeling, or worsening itch. Keratosis pilaris does not have a permanent cure, but a simple maintenance routine can make it less noticeable.

What Not to Do

  • Do not squeeze the bumps or treat them as acne.

  • Do not use a steroid cream, prescription retinoid, or strong exfoliating medicine unless the clinician recommends it for your child.

  • Do not use abrasive home treatments, scrubs, or internet remedies that damage the skin barrier.

  • Do not worry about spreading it to siblings, classmates, or friends. Keratosis pilaris is not contagious.

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Sources and Medical Review

Sources checked August 13, 2026. Medical review completed August 13, 2026.