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Do you ever notice small, dark spots on your legs after you shave? Well, turns out they’re actually clogged pores. These dark spots resemble the seeds on the skin of strawberries, aka “strawberry legs” and are more noticeable on some skin types than others. For most people, strawberry legs ain’t nothing but some ol’ hair follicles. Seriously - that’s it. The only time to really worry about them is if you’re dealing with an actual skin issue. They’re typically used to describe folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), keratosis pilaris (a harmless skin condition that causes dry, rough patches), and clogged pores.
Strawberry legs, more or less, is an umbrella term for the appearance of follicles - inflamed, raised or not. While there are times when it presents as an actual skin issue (typically chronic dry skin), if you see them after you shave your legs it’s not a big deal - just the natural appearance of skin.
Before we learn some ways to get rid of strawberry legs, here’s a closer look at the causes.
What Causes Strawberry Legs?
Shaving: Shaving against the flow of your hair growth or with an old razor can cause episodes of ingrowth, i.e. strands getting trapped under the skin. This often leads to the formation of pesky bumps and inflammation.
Clogged Pores: Your skin is exposed to dust, grime, and pollution on the reg. This causes an excess of buildup, sebum, and bacteria clogging the pores on its surface. Oil from the dermis, upon contact with air, turns black and results in the formation of tiny spots, a.k.a, strawberry legs.
Folliculitis: According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, Folliculitis is a common, generally benign, skin condition in which the hair follicle becomes infected/inflamed and forms a pustule or erythematous papule of overlying hair-covered skin. These small bumps darken over time which leads to the illusion of ‘strawberry legs’. Studies also suggest that wet or sweaty skin is more prone to developing folliculitis.
Keratosis pilaris: A prevalent skin condition, keratosis pilaris is caused by the congestion of open pores with dead-dried cells. According to the World Journal of Clinical Cases, grey-brown keratotic plugs in the pores and dark red keratotic papules at the openings of hair follicles can be seen, which contain coiled hair and are often accompanied by perifollicular erythema and pigmentation.
Symptoms Of Strawberry Legs
If you suspect you have strawberry legs, here’s a list of the most common symptoms to keep an eye out for. However, bear in mind that symptoms could vary from person to person, as the condition affects each of us differently.
- Tiny red bumps: You may notice small, reddish bumps on the surface of your skin if you have strawberry legs.
- Darkened pores: A tell-tale sign of strawberry legs are pores that appear dark due to the oxidation of clogged oil that’s trapped inside.
- Brown or black dots on shaved legs: Pores appear brown or black after shaving due to oxidation of clogged pores.
Further, if you experience itching, scabbing, or a burning sensation on the legs, you must consult a doctor.
Exfoliation Is Magic
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate - yes we cannot stress enough! Regular exfoliation may help keep these dark pores at bay. It helps soften the skin and loosen up the dirt and oil that’s clogging pores, which in turn helps prevent that dirt and oil from getting trapped in your pores when you shave. According to the International Journal of Current Science, an exfoliant also improves skin texture, enhances absorption and retention of moisturising agents and restores the skin’s natural moisturising factor.
Reach out for these physical exfoliants -
The Power Of Moisturising
Following exfoliation, you must always moisturise! Keeping your skin well-hydrated will help dead skin cells to shed naturally and appropriately. For those with dry skin, using rich moisturisers is key to preventing clogged pores.
Reach out for moisturisers containing shea butter and ceramides -
Shaving With A Quality Razor
Since shaving is the key reason for the appearance of dark pores, you must focus on your shaving technique as well as invest in quality products. A low-quality razor usually requires repeated strokes while shaving, which inflames your skin and makes the clogged pores more visible due to surrounding redness.
Reach out for quality razors -
Waxing
Waxing is one of the most common and effective hair removal techniques. It’s also a viable solution for nipping strawberry legs in the bud. Waxing removes the hair from the root so the hair follicle is completely removed. It also removes the dead top layer of the skin along with the hair, which provides an exfoliation at the same time.
Reach out for wax strips -
Frequently Asked Questions
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How to prevent strawberry legs?
While treatments and home remedies work well for strawberry legs, the best way to deal with them is to take preventative steps. As they say, prevention is better than cure; so here are some ways you can ensure your legs remain bump-free and smooth:
- Use a moisturising shaving cream: Before you shave your legs to get smooth, hairless skin, remember to prep well. Begin by using a gentle shaving cream or gel, like aloe vera. This helps soften the follicles and ensures a close shave, in turn, keeping strawberry skin and ingrown hair at bay.
- Shave in the right direction: Shaving in the direction of hair growth helps prevent any friction, which can lead to bumps and ingrown hair. Remember this rule of thumb while shaving to avoid strawberry legs.
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Which is the best razor to prevent strawberry legs?
If you’re looking for the best razor to prevent strawberry legs, we recommend the following:
- Gillette Venus Comfortglide Hair Removal Razor
- Sanfe Shea Butter Body Razor
- Gillette Venus Snap Hair Remover
- Sirona Reusable Shaving Razor
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How to avoid strawberry legs after epilating?
By exfoliating before epilating, you can avoid strawberry legs. You must always moisturise well afterwards, too. Plus, using a good-quality device, like the Philips Epilator BRE235, will ensure a smooth hair removal experience.
- Is dry brushing good for strawberry legs?
Yes, according to experts, dry brushing is a good form of physical exfoliation; hence, it can be beneficial in preventing strawberry legs. We highly recommend the Dry Brush With Removable Wood Handle from Global Beauty Secrets.
- Are strawberry legs genetic?
People who suffer from strawberry legs may have a genetic condition called keratosis pilaris. However, with the right routine and products, strawberry legs can be managed to a great extent.
Final Thoughts
We hope this blog gave you all the information you need about strawberry legs, what strawberry skin is, and how to treat and prevent it. Remember to prep your skin well before shaving and use high-quality products to ensure bump-free, silky-smooth skin!
