Texture Hacks: What Actually Works (and What’s a Waste of Time)
Let’s Talk Texture.
Whether it’s keratosis pilaris on your arms, crepey skin above your knees, or that suspiciously lizard-y patch on your belly, body texture is common, frustrating, and highly Google-able.
As a dermatologist, I get asked all the time about how to smooth things out. People want glassy skin on their faces and their thighs, and they want to know what’s worth it.
So here are my go-to derm-approved hacks for rough, bumpy, or crepey skin…no lasers required.
For Body Texture: Amlactin is Still Queen
If I had to pick one product for smoothing out rough body texture, it's Amlactin. Hands down.
Why it works:
12% lactic acid exfoliates and hydrates (the Crepe Lotion, linked below, is even stronger- 15%!)
Breaks down dead skin buildup
Improves tone, flakiness, and mild creping
Where I use it:
Arms (for keratosis pilaris)
Stomach (post-weight fluctuation crepe skin)
Thighs + knees (for that dull, dry texture)
💡 Pro tip: Apply it post-shower when your skin is still damp to lock in hydration. Don’t overdo it after shaving-it can sting. And it smells!
👉 Read my full post on Amlactin for crepey skin
For Facial Texture: I’m Loving the VT CICA Reedle Shot 300
Okay, this one is fun. If you’ve never tried a spicule serum, VT COSMETICS CICA Reedle Shot 300 is the gentle chaos your textured skin needs.
It uses tiny “Reedles” (spicule microstructures made from marine sponge) to:
Create micro-channels in your skin
Boost absorption of soothing ingredients (like CICA and niacinamide)
Lightly stimulate collagen production
It tingles. It works. It’s surprisingly affordable.
Why I use it:
Post-travel dullness
Retinoid “off nights”
Acne-prone or congested skin that needs a wake-up
Not for the overly sensitive, but for oily/combo/texture-prone skin? A glow-up.
Don’t Forget Your Retinoid
This one’s obvious, but it deserves a place on the list. If your face texture requires long-term correction, a retinoid remains the gold standard.
Speeds up cell turnover
Helps with fine lines, tone, and rough patches
Great for acne and aging
I use Altreno, a prescription retinoid with hyaluronic acid. You can also check out my post on using retinoids with sensitive skin.
Weekly Dry Brushing (Yes, Really)
I know it sounds woo-woo, but dry brushing:
Boosts circulation
Removes dull dead skin
Helps product absorb better
I like to do it once a week before a shower, followed by Amlactin or a body oil if I’m feeling fancy.
TL;DR – My Texture Protocol
| Concern | Product | Use |
|---|---|---|
| KP / rough arms | Amlactin | Daily after shower |
| Crepey belly / legs | Amlactin | 2×/day in drier months |
| Facial dullness | VT Reedle Shot 300 | 1–2×/week at night |
| Aging / pores / texture | Retinoid (Altreno) | Nightly |
| Dull full body | Dry brush + CeraVe or oil | Weekly |