Smooth out the bumps: keratosis pilaris treatment in Massapequa
Tiny rough bumps on the backs of your arms, thighs or buttocks that feel like sandpaper and won't scrub away. Keratosis pilaris is harmless and very common, but it can make you think twice about sleeveless tops and shorts. At Skin Space in Massapequa, we help clients across Long Island smooth bumpy body skin with exfoliating body treatments and a simple routine that keeps it under control.
Also known as KP, chicken skin, strawberry legs, bumps on the arms and follicular bumps.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jimenez, Medical Director. Last reviewed September 2026.
What keratosis pilaris is
Plugged follicles, not acne.
Keratosis pilaris happens when keratin, the protein that forms the outer layer of skin, builds up and plugs hair follicles. Each plug forms a tiny, rough bump. It's harmless, not contagious and extremely common, especially in teens and young adults, and it often runs in families and comes with dry skin or eczema.
There's no permanent cure, and it often improves on its own with age. Regular exfoliation and moisturizing make a big difference, though. In-spa body treatments give the skin a deeper smoothing reset, and a consistent home routine keeps the bumps from returning.
Rough bumps
Skin-colored bumps that feel like sandpaper, without much redness.
Red bumps
Bumps with a pink or red ring around each follicle.
Dark dots
Brown dots around the follicles, more common in deeper skin tones and sometimes called strawberry skin.
If bumps are tender or pus-filled, see back, chest and body acne. Bumps after shaving are covered in ingrown hairs and razor bumps. For rough texture on the face, see rough or bumpy texture.
What causes it
Mostly genetic, made worse by dryness.
KP has a strong family link, and a few things make it more noticeable.
- Genetics, since keratosis pilaris often runs in families.
- Dry skin, which makes the plugs firmer and the bumps rougher.
- Winter weather, with cold, dry air and indoor heating.
- Eczema and allergies, which are commonly linked with KP.
- Hormonal changes, which is why KP often appears or flares in the teen years and pregnancy.
- Hot showers and harsh soaps, which strip natural oils.
Smoothing treatments at Skin Space
Your Skin Space provider will choose body treatments based on where your bumps are and how sensitive your skin is.
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Peach Perfect Booty Facial
A body facial for the buttocks and upper thighs that exfoliates, clears plugged follicles and hydrates, leaving bumpy skin noticeably smoother.
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Back Facial
A deep-cleansing treatment for the back and shoulders that exfoliates, clears congestion and softens rough, bumpy skin.
What to expect at Skin Space
From a Massapequa consultation to smoother skin.
Consultation
We look at the bumps, confirm it's keratosis pilaris rather than acne or folliculitis, and ask about your skin routine.
Your plan
Your provider recommends a body treatment for the area and a simple home routine.
Treatment
Gentle exfoliation and hydration smooth the skin, with results you can feel right away.
Stay consistent
Regular treatments and daily moisturizing keep the bumps from building back up.
Smoothing KP at home
Consistency beats scrubbing.
- Use a body wash or lotion with lactic acid, salicylic acid or urea a few times a week to dissolve the plugs.
- Moisturize right after showering, while skin is still damp.
- Skip harsh scrubs and loofahs. Scrubbing hard can make bumps redder.
- Keep showers short and lukewarm. Hot water dries the skin out.
- Don't pick or squeeze the bumps, which can leave dark marks.
- Prepare for Long Island winters. Run a humidifier and switch to a richer body cream when the heat comes on.
When to see a dermatologist
KP is harmless, but a few signs point elsewhere.
See a dermatologist or your doctor if you notice:
- Bumps that are painful, pus-filled or spreading, which may be folliculitis or acne
- Very itchy, inflamed patches, which may be eczema
- Bumps on the face that leave marks or scarring
- No improvement after a few months of consistent care
A dermatologist can prescribe stronger creams if needed, and the Skin Space team is happy to work alongside your treatment.
Common questions
Can keratosis pilaris be cured?
There's no permanent cure, but it can be kept smooth with regular exfoliation and moisturizing. It often improves with age.
Is keratosis pilaris contagious?
No. It's a harmless build-up of keratin in the hair follicles and can't be spread to others.
Should I scrub the bumps off?
No. Harsh scrubbing can make KP redder and more irritated. Chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or urea work better.
Why is my KP worse in winter?
Cold, dry air and indoor heat dry out the skin, which makes the plugs firmer and the bumps more noticeable.
Can laser hair removal help KP?
For some people, reducing hair can make bumps look smoother, but it isn't a primary KP treatment. We can talk through whether it makes sense for you.
Where can I get keratosis pilaris treated near Massapequa?
Skin Space is a med spa in Massapequa, NY, serving clients from across Long Island. Every plan starts with a consultation to confirm what's causing your bumps.
Reviewed by Dr. Jimenez
Medical Director at Skin Space in Massapequa, NY. This page was reviewed for medical accuracy in September 2026.
