But while there's instant gratification in a scrub that leaves skin smooth, experts agree that chemical exfoliation, which uses acids to gently dissolve away dead skin, is the best strategy for treating keratosis pilaris. According to Murphy-Rose, options for chemical exfoliation include topical lotions, creams, or serums that contain glycolic acid and lactic acid (AHAs), salicylic acid (a BHA), gluconolactone (a PHA), and urea.