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A Surprising Way to Get Rid of Those Little Bumps on Your Arms

Just in time for tank-top weather

Do the backs of your arms ever feel rough and bumpy? If so, you’re far from alone. In fact, about half of the population suffers from chicken skin (aka “keratosis pilaris”), which is what happens when dead skin cells accumulate and plug up your hair follicles, causing those pesky little bumps to form. Here’s an at-home fix to smooth over the situation using a surprising condiment.

What you need: A container of sour cream, a small bowl and a washcloth.

What you do: Drop a few tablespoons of sour cream into the bowl. Next, soak the washcloth in warm water and wring it out. Dip the washcloth into the sour cream and gently rub it into your skin. Let it sit for ten minutes (read, check Insta or dream about Bali in the meantime) and then shower off any excess.

Why it works: The lactic acid in sour cream (yogurt or buttermilk also works) helps to break down and remove keratin buildup from skin, while the washcloth helps to slough off any dead cells on the surface.

Bonus tip: Apply body lotion while your skin is still slightly damp from the shower. This will seal in the moisture and keep your skin hydrated from the start (key in keeping those rough bumps at bay).



Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023

Beauty Director

  • Oversees all beauty content at PureWow
  • Has over a decade of experience in writing and editing, both in print and digital media
  • Produces 'Youngish' newsletter, a guide to beauty in your 30s and beyond