Strawberry Legs? We Got You Covered

Summer is arrived, which means you're likely to expose a little more skin. As our gams finally receive their due, pants become shorts, maxi dresses become minis, and skirts become minis. On the other hand, short hemlines may be undesirable to those who have spotted, bumpy, or spotty legs. Discover how a dermatologist treats and prevents skin conditions known as "strawberry legs."

What Are 'Strawberry Legs' Exactly?

Strawberry legs have a dotty appearance, especially around the hair follicles. The dots depict the buildup of common skin components in and around hair and oil glands. Keratin is a protein that is found in hair (the main protein in the skin).

Melanin is a pigment found in the human skin (the source of pigment)

Sebum is a type of oil that the skin produces (natural oil of the skin)

Bacteria are a particular kind of microbe (often, normal skin flora)

The term "strawberry legs" refers to dark pores, patches, or red pimples on the lower thighs that resemble strawberry seeds. Strawberry legs do not pose a health risk, but they are ugly.

Strawberry Legs: What Causes Them and How to Treat Them

While strawberry legs typically have the same appearance regardless of what produced them, there are various possible causes. Understanding what causes your dotted gams will aid in treatment. The four most prevalent causes of strawberry legs, as well as how to cure them, are described below.

Congested Pores

Pores that are clogged on the legs are just as common as those on the face. Certain individuals have larger pores as a result of heredity and thicker body hair, and while the pores themselves are not uncomfortable, they can become blocked with bacteria, dead skin, and sebum. When dirt in clogged pores on the legs is exposed to air, it dries and darkens, just like a blackhead on the face.

Chemical and physical exfoliation are utilised in the treatment.

Exfoliation, which is a necessary component of your facial skincare routine, can be used to cure congested pores on your legs or elsewhere on your body. Chemical exfoliation, which utilises acids and retinols to stimulate cell turnover and clear pores, is my particular preference for my patients. This procedure eliminates keratin, oils, and other skin detritus gently, thereby opening pores and follicles and preventing secondary bacterial growth. Acne and folliculitis bacteria thrive in clogged hair follicles, making it critical to remove this accumulation.

Choose a body wash or moisturiser that contains alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs), notably glycolic acid and salicylic acid, to help exfoliate dead skin cells and other debris that contribute to clogged pores. These acids gently exfoliate the skin by decreasing the adhesion of dead or dying skin cells. This aids in the opening of pores while also imparting a pleasant textural shift and gloss to the skin.

Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a skin disorder in which hair follicles become irritated or infected. The most common sign is little red pimples surrounding the hair follicles. Hair loss or scarring in the afflicted area may occur in extreme situations. On the other hand, the vast majority of instances are small and often resolve within a few days.

It's critical to remember that folliculitis is a catch-all term for irritation of the hair follicles. This may be contagious or sterile due to microorganisms such as staphylococcus.

Use Antibiotics, oral and topical.

Folliculitis is a "complicated" illness to treat, which is why you should consult a dermatologist before attempting any at-home therapies. Folliculitis can be sterile, manifesting as red, pus-filled pimples as a result of clogged pores and shaving. They may, however, indicate a superficial skin infection caused by bacteria or yeast, including staph and pityrosporum.

While the former is usually treatable with over-the-counter medications, the latter may require the use of antibiotic creams or even pills. A dermatologist can evaluate whether organisms should be targeted with a simple swab. If there are, it could save you much time and effort in developing healthy at-home routines.

Antibacterial skincare is used as a form of therapy.

At-home therapies include lifestyle changes and skincare. To begin, remove your sweaty workout attire and shower immediately. In the shower, lather up with antibacterial soap.

Laser hair removal is used in this therapy.

Additionally, you can consider altering your shaving routine. Along with going from a multi-bladed to a disposable razor, use a soothing shaving lotion. The closest shave is traded for smoother skin. A close shave is associated with a decreased risk of folliculitis. Additionally, he recommends shaving with the grain every two to three shaves rather than against it. If you are prone to razor bumps, laser hair removal with a dermatologist will ultimately save you time and aggravation.

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris (KP), colloquially referred to as "chicken skin," is a skin condition that results in the formation of small bumps on the skin. Keratosis pilaris most frequently affects the upper outer arms, however it can also affect the thighs. This is due to the buildup of keratin in the hair follicles.

Try Chemical exfoliation.

Chemical exfoliants, such as clogged pores, are usually efficient in treating keratosis pilaris, although prescription-strength treatments may also be beneficial. Exfoliative acids are my first line of defence against keratosis pilaris. If these do not work, a dermatologist may recommend a prescription-strength retinoid.

While keratosis pilaris is present throughout the year, flare-ups are more common in the winter because to the drier skin. Due to the drying action of chlorine and other pool chemicals, swimmers may worsen the illness.

Dryness of Skin

As previously stated, dry skin plays a role in a range of skin conditions, including strawberry legs. Skin that is dehydrated is more prone to irritation, especially during shaving. Dry skin on the lower legs is more prone to razor burn, keratosis pilaris, folliculitis, and clogged pores, which all contribute to a spotty look.

Creams and moisturisers are used in therapy.

A daily moisturising body lotion containing ammonium lactate is an excellent place to start if your skin is severely dry, particularly if it is scaly. Ichthyosis, or dry, scaly, or thickened skin, may not respond to normal moisturisers and creams, necessitating the use of a dual-purpose product. Moisturizers alone are not always sufficient due to the presence of a thicker layer of dead skin on the surface. Exfoliating creams gradually dissolve that layer, allowing for greater penetration of richer moisturisers into the healthier layers beneath.

In summary

Although the name "strawberry legs" refers to a number of skin disorders, there are a few things you can do at home and at work to treat and avoid a bumpy or spotty appearance. Consult a board-certified skin specialist before attempting self-treatment to ensure you understand the underlying cause of your ailment.