The 3 simple ways to get rid of ‘chicken skin’ – and how it can be a sign of serious illness

CHICKEN SKIN – as disgusting as it sounds – is one of those things that most people don’t notice.

That is, if you don’t have it yourself.

Known medically as keratosis pilaris, the common skin condition causes dry skin and small raised patches, usually on the arms, thighs, or bottom.

According to the British Skin Foundation It affects up to 40 percent of adults and over half (60 percent) of teenagers.

“It happens when your hair follicles become clogged, leading to flaking and bumps,” said consultant dermatologist Dr. Firas Al-Niaimi told The Sun.

“It can be genetic and often linked to people with eczema or asthma,” he added.

But fear not, according to Dr. Firas, there are some inexpensive ways to reduce the appearance.

1. Use an emollient

Emollients are hydrating treatments applied directly to the skin to soothe and hydrate.

A cheap softener is petroleum jelly, which will cost you just £1.80 for a 50ml pot at Boots.

The popular cream can help soften scaly skin by locking in water, the expert said.

With a mild scrub, you can rub off these dead cells and gently exfoliate the hair follicles.

dr Firas suggested using Eucerin’s 10 per cent urea body lotion, which costs £15.49 in Superdrug.

It is a chemical peeling that gently dissolves dead skin cells – but only temporarily.

When at-home creams aren’t enough, consider trying laser hair removal.

The treatment works by sending wavelengths of light through the outer layers of the skin.

This treatment can get rid of bumps, rough spots, and brown spots, said Dr. Firas.

According to the NHS, individual laser hair removal treatments can range from around £80 to £250.

There are always bargains to be had though, so it’s worth checking Google to see what you can find.

According to the NHS, it is important to ensure that the person performing your laser hair removal is experienced and suitably qualified.

Check to see if they are on a register to show they meet established standards of education, skills and insurance.

Avoid practitioners who have received only brief training.