The Right Bodycare Layering Routine for Keratosis Pilaris (‘Strawberry Skin’)

You may have noticed rough, tiny bumps on the backs of your arms, thighs, or buttocks that look like goosebumps or even strawberry seeds under the skin. If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with keratosis pilaris, a harmless but often frustrating skin condition also known as “strawberry skin.”

While keratosis pilaris isn't painful or dangerous, it can cause dryness, texture, and uneven tone — and when not treated correctly, it tends to worsen, especially in colder weather. The good news? With consistent and strategic bodycare layering, it’s possible to significantly improve the look and feel of your skin.

Let’s decode a simple, effective Keratosis Pilaris treatment routine — powered by nature-inspired, vegan, and cruelty-free The Body Shop India products — to gently exfoliate, nourish, and protect your skin.

First, What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that protects your skin. When this buildup clogs your hair follicles, it creates small, rough bumps — often mistaken for acne or dry patches. It’s more common in people with dry skin or eczema and tends to appear on arms, thighs, cheeks, and buttocks.

Your 4-Step Bodycare Routine for Keratosis Pilaris

The secret to managing KP is a combo of gentle exfoliation, deep hydration, and sun protection — and doing it consistently. Here’s how to layer your bodycare right:

1. Cleanse Gently with the Right Shower Gel

Start your shower routine with a sulphate-free, moisturising shower gel that doesn’t strip the skin. Avoid harsh soaps and instead opt for something skin-loving and comforting.

Almond Milk Shower Cream
Formulated for sensitive and dry skin, this creamy cleanser is enriched with Community Fair Trade almond milk. It gently washes away impurities while helping soothe and nourish skin prone to roughness and flakiness — exactly what your keratosis pilaris needs.

2. Exfoliate Weekly with a Non-Abrasive Body Scrub

Exfoliation is key, but scrubbing too hard can irritate your skin and worsen KP. Go for a body scrub with a creamy base and naturally-derived exfoliants that buff away dead skin without damaging your moisture barrier.

Shea Body Scrub
This rich sugar-based scrub helps slough off dead cells gently while hydrating the skin. Infused with Community Fair Trade shea butter, it leaves the skin feeling smoother and nourished — an essential step in your Keratosis Pilaris treatment. Use this 1-2 times per week and always follow up with moisturiser immediately.

3. Lock in Moisture with a Targeted Body Lotion

Hydration is your skin’s best friend — especially for KP. A good body lotion softens keratin plugs, calms inflammation, and keeps rough patches at bay. Look for ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and natural oils.

British Rose Body Lotion

Enriched with one of skincare’s most beloved antioxidants, this lightweight lotion sinks in quickly and works hard to moisturise and protect dry, irritated skin. For those battling strawberry skin, this lotion offers soothing relief with every use — without feeling greasy or heavy.

Pro tip: Apply your body lotion on damp skin right after showering to seal in moisture effectively.

4. Don’t Skip Sunscreen – Even for Your Body

Sun exposure can worsen keratosis pilaris by increasing inflammation and pigmentation around the bumps. If you’re stepping out, especially with arms or legs exposed, make sure to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion SPF 50+
This lightweight, non-sticky formula provides high protection against UVA and UVB rays while also hydrating the skin. Perfect for daily use on exposed body areas, it’s a must-have for preventing hyperpigmentation and flare-ups.

Keep KP in Check

Stay consistent: Even the best products take time. Commit to your routine daily for visible improvements in skin texture.
Avoid hot showers: They strip away natural oils, leaving your skin dry and aggravated. Stick to lukewarm water.
Skip aggressive treatments: Loofahs, pumice stones, and harsh exfoliants can do more harm than good.
Eat skin-friendly foods: Omega-3s and antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies can help your skin from within.

Smooth Skin, the Gentle Way

Keratosis pilaris might not have a permanent cure, but with a thoughtful bodycare layering approach, you can manage and even fade those pesky bumps. So go ahead — show your skin some love. Your softest skin yet is only a few steps away.