Recognisable by areas of raised bumps and dry, rough skin across the legs and upper arms, strawberry skin is a harmless condition that affects many people. If you want to know how to get rid of strawberry legs, a good body care routine is essential. By making a few small changes and using the best products for keratosis pilaris, you can expect smoother, softer-feeling limbs in no time.
What Is Keratosis Pilaris?
So, what are strawberry legs? Keratosis pilaris, often referred to as strawberry skin, is a very common, harmless skin condition. Identifiable by small bumps and dry, rough skin, it’s usually found across the upper arms and legs. While we don’t know exactly why some people get strawberry legs and others don’t, it’s thought that people with a family history of strawberry skin or who suffer from eczema are more likely to develop it.
What Causes Strawberry Legs?
Keratin is a hard protein found in the surface of the skin that protects against harmful particles and infection. Strawberry legs, or keratosis pilaris, occurs when keratin builds up and clogs the pores. This keratin buildup causes tiny bumps to form over the hair follicles, which is where the comparison with the dimpled appearance of strawberry skin comes from.
Keratosis pilaris can occur at any age and there are certain things that may cause it to flare up.
- Dry skin often makes strawberry legs worse. Dry, rough skin is more likely to be irritated by hair removal, while also making keratosis pilaris more visible.
- Poor hair removal technique can also worsen the appearance of strawberry skin. Shaving against the direction of hair growth, using a blunt razor and waxing can cause comedones to form.
- Central heating, cold weather and a lack of humidity can all cause flare ups. This is why skin often feels tighter and bumps appear more pronounced in winter.
How To Get Rid Of Strawberry Legs
While there is no magic strawberry legs treatment, making a few simple changes to your routine can help to soothe dryness and reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris on thighs and arms.
1. Use a gentle exfoliator
Using a gentle leg exfoliator helps to buff away dead cells which can otherwise leave skin looking dull and worsen clogged pores. Once or twice a week, treat yourself to a soothing massage. Our Salt Scrub is a great option for dry, sensitive skin. While sumptuous Dead Sea Salts gently slough away dead, dry skin before dissolving in the water, a blend of Essential Oils leaves skin feeling hydrated and nourished.
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2. Keep skin moisturised
As mentioned above, dry skin can exacerbate both the appearance and causes of keratosis pilaris. Because of this, it’s really important to maintain a good moisturising routine. After your bath or shower, keep skin smooth and soft by slathering on a generous amount of cream for strawberry legs.
Our signature Body Butter is enriched with Cocoa and Shea Butters to leave skin feeling hydrated and healthy. Perfect for fans of luxurious and bubbly textures, our wonderfully light Crème Souffle hydrates skin with a blend of Mango and Jojoba Oils. If a lotion is your go-to moisturiser, our classic Body Lotion is enriched with Aloe Vera to soothe irritation and Argan Oil to provide a 24-hour dose of moisture.
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3. Have lukewarm baths or showers
Hot baths and showers may feel indulgent, but they can actually leave the skin dehydrated, worsening the appearance of strawberry legs. Both your skin and hair will thank you for turning down the temperature on your steaming baths and showers.
To treat skin to an extra dose of hydration, add our Ultra Rich Wet Skin Moisture Miracle to your shower routine. This dry skin saviour locks in 5 times more moisture, leaving skin beautifully hydrated for up to 72 hours.
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4. Switch up your hair removal routine
If you suspect that your shaving routine may be causing strawberry legs to flare up, it may be time to change up your products or replace your razor. Always shave in the direction of hair growth, use a gentle and hydrating shaving gel and regularly replace your razor. Good prep and aftercare is also important. Exfoliate before removing hair to create a smooth base and moisturise afterwards to soothe irritation.
5. Pat skin dry
Patting skin dry instead of rubbing vigorously with your towel will prevent irritation, helping to reduce the appearance of keratosis pilaris. Scrubbing the skin can make keratosis pilaris worse, so be gentle! A regular massage with a strawberry legs scrub will provide all the exfoliation you need, so take it easy when you’re toweling down.
While there’s no miracle instant keratosis pilaris treatment, keeping skin well moisturised and exfoliating regularly is key to knowing how to get rid of strawberry legs. Stick with your new routine and you’ll have softer and smoother-feeling skin before you know it.
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