Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that causes small, scaly bumps on the skin where there are hair follicles. It is also known as "chicken skin" because it looks like goosebumps. The bumps are usually the color of the skin, but they can also be red, brown, or white. KP is often considered a common variant of skin and is harmless. It can occur at any age, but it is more common in young children and adolescents. The condition usually disappears by age 30. KP is caused by the buildup of keratin, a hard protein that protects skin from harmful substances and infection, which blocks the opening of hair follicles, causing patches of rough, bumpy skin. Dry skin tends to make KP worse. The bumps usually dont hurt or itch, but they can cause itching or irritation, become red and slightly inflamed, and cause scarring if they do. There is no cure for KP, but it can be treated with moisturizers and prescription creams to help improve how the skin looks.