Skin Concerns · Apgujeong, Seoul

Keratosis Pilaris

Smooth the rough, bumpy skin on arms, thighs and cheeks with peels, laser and a routine that keeps follicles clear.

Procedure time	20–40 minutes
Anaesthesia	None or topical cream
Downtime	0–2 days of mild redness
Sessions	3–6, every 3–4 weeks
Results last	Months to years with maintenance
Performed by	Board-certified dermatologist

What is keratosis pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris, often called KP or chicken skin, is a very common condition in which keratin, the protein that makes up the outer skin, builds up inside hair follicles and forms a small plug. Each plug raises a tiny bump, sometimes with a trapped hair and a ring of redness or brown pigment around it. The result is a rough, sandpaper-like texture most often seen on the backs of the upper arms, the fronts of the thighs, the buttocks and, in some people, the cheeks. It is harmless and not contagious, but it can be persistent and cosmetically frustrating.

KP is largely genetic and is more common in people with dry skin or atopic dermatitis. It usually appears in childhood, peaks in the teens and often improves in adulthood, although many adults keep it. Dry winter air makes it worse, and over-scrubbing inflames the follicles without clearing them.

How keratosis pilaris is treated at Oaro

At Oaro Dermatology Clinic in Apgujeong, Seoul, Dr. Chang-hyun Kim confirms the diagnosis, distinguishes it from folliculitis or acne, and assesses how much of the problem is texture and how much is redness or pigment. Texture is addressed with keratolytic prescription creams and in-clinic chemical peels or professional exfoliation. Because the hair inside each follicle contributes to plugging, Vikini laser hair removal may reduce bumps over a course. Redness responds to Lumenis M22 IPL or the V laser, and brown marks to Pico toning. Your plan is written down and adjusted at each visit.

What to expect

1. Consultation & diagnosis

Your dermatologist examines the affected areas, checks for dryness or atopic dermatitis and explains whether texture, redness or pigment should be treated first. You receive a written plan and home routine.

2. Treatment

Peel or exfoliation sessions take about 20 minutes with no downtime and are spaced three to four weeks apart. IPL or vascular laser for redness takes 15–20 minutes per area. Laser hair removal, if included, follows the usual course of several sessions four to six weeks apart.

3. Aftercare & follow-up

You receive written aftercare in English and a product list. Texture and redness are photographed at each visit to track change, and maintenance intervals are recorded in your care notebook.