Have you ever noticed tiny dark dots on your legs after shaving? This is commonly known as “strawberry legs”. It happens when pores or hair follicles become darkened due to trapped oil, dead skin, or irritation from shaving. This can make your skin look uneven and may affect your confidence. But don’t worry as it is fixable! ☺️
What Causes Strawberry Legs?
- Shaving With Dull Razors
According to Healthline, using a dull razor causes tiny bumps and irritation around the hair follicles. These small openings make it easier for oil, bacteria and dead skin to get trapped, leading to darkened pores that resemble strawberry seeds.
- Shaving Without Protection
Shaving dry or with just water makes the razor drag directly on your skin, causing micro-cuts and irritation. This increases the chance of dark pores and ingrown hairs.
To help with ingrown hairs, follow the following tips:
- Make sure you skin is moist before you shave,
- Use a single blade razor,
- Use a moisturizing lather cream,
- Shave in the direction of the hair, &
- Use a thick moisturizer after
- Skipping Exfoliation
When dead skin isn’t removed regularly, it clogs pores and traps hair below the surface. As new hair tries to grow, it gets stuck, leading to ingrown hairs and dark spots that become more visible over time.
How to Get Rid of Strawberry Legs
- Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation removes dead skin and impurities, helping your skin look smoother and more even. You can use a gentle body scrub or a chemical exfoliant.
⚠️ Only exfoliate 1–2 times a week to avoid irritation.
- Shave the Right Way
Always use a sharp and clean razor to prevent bacteria buildup. Razors with at least 3 blades such as the GILLETTE VENUS Venus Embrace Razor Pink and x2 Blades can offer a smoother and sharper shave. Moreover, applying a shaving cream helps the blade glide smoothly over the skin.
⚠️ Shave in the direction of hair growth to reduce razor burn and ingrown hairs.
- Moisturise! Moisturise! Moisturise!
Apply moisturizer right after showering while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration. Lotions with aloe vera soothe irritation, while lotions containing gentle exfoliating ingredients can help improve texture over time.
Note⚠️: Do not use body lotions that contain exfoliating ingredients after shaving as this will overwhelm the skin further.
- Remove Hair from the Root
Sounds intimidating but this is the most effective way to eliminate strawberry legs for good! Methods such as waxing, epilating and laser hair removal pulls hair out from the root. Over time, hair grows back finer and weaker, which reduces the appearance of dark pores.
Note⚠️: If you’re new to these methods, consult a professional for guidance.
