Do the pores on your legs tend to look dark and congested, or red and irritated, particularly after shaving? There’s actually a name for this; it’s strawberry legs. What’s in a name? Well, because reddened or darkened pores can look like dots against the skin, it can resemble the way seeds look on a strawberry. While it most commonly plagues the legs, strawberry skin can appear anywhere on the body.

This skin condition can be a symptom of clogged pores, irritated and sensitive skin, razor burn, and more. The appearance of strawberry legs, or skin, most commonly shows up after shaving because, if you’re not careful, shaving can irritate the skin, trap dirt and bacteria in your pores or hair follicle, and potentially even lead to infection, all of which can cause red or dark pores. In that case, it might be time to switch to an alternative hair removal method.

Exfoliating is one of the best ways to prevent strawberry legs. So, if you’re dealing with this tart skin issue, keep reading. We taped our experts to share the best exfoliators for strawberry legs so you can keep your pores clear, your skin tone even, and reach for those short shorts and sundresses anytime you like.

Why Exfoliate?

Exfoliation is an important step in any skin care routine be it for the face or body, especially for those that experience strawberry skin. Exfoliating helps remove the dirt, oil, and layers of product that build up in the skin’s pores and cause them to become clogged and appear dark.

Exfoliation doesn’t only help prevent and get rid of strawberry legs, though. It has a whole host of benefits including smoother skin and a glowy-looking complexion. Plus, it encourages the skin’s natural cell renewal process, which, in turn, leads to healthier-looking skin.

So, our hot tip? Exfoliate regularly—all over.

Physical Exfoliants

Physical exfoliation means using products or tools with a gritty texture that physically slough away dead skin cells, oils, and dirt that builds up on the skin’s surface. Physical exfoliants such as scrubs, gloves, and brushes require a little effort, but we’ve grown to love the few minutes of massaging that comes with it. Here are the best physical exfoliators for strawberry legs:

A Body Scrub

A good body scrub can work wonders on strawberry-prone skin, such as our Atlantic Kelp and Magnesium Body Scrub, which features Sea Salt and Epsom Salt to exfoliate dead skin cells and something else that could be clogging your pores. This scrub is also enriched with Atlantic Kelp Extract and Microalgae Oil to help replenish skin with moisture, which is also a critical component of caring for strawberry skin.

The great thing about this product is its gentle nature. When skin irritation is a prime suspect for strawberry legs, it’s important not to encourage it, which is all too easy when using a tough exfoliator. Be sure, though, to be gentle with your method as well. Soft circular motions are enough to slough away dead skin; there’s no need to go at it like you would when scrubbing the floor.

Make the most of the experience by running a warm bath while you massage the scrub onto clean, dry skin in a circular motion for a few minutes. Then, submerge in the tub and let the warm water absorb the salts to create a rejuvenating bath and reveal silky smooth skin. Check out our blog for more information on Dry vs Dehydrated Skin.

Another great option when it comes to physical exfoliants is our Moroccan Rose Sugar Body Polish, which uses sugar particles to exfoliate the skin. This sweet smelling sugar scrub is also gentle on the skin and hydrating thanks to Moroccan Rose Oil.

Chemical Exfoliants

Unlike physical exfoliants, a chemical exfoliant doesn’t require texture or effort to get the job done. Instead, a natural chemical exfoliation such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids helps loosen the bonds between accumulated dead skin cells to help them detach from the surface. They are both safe and effective on strawberry legs. Here’s how to use them.

AHAs

AHAs such as lactic acid and glycolic acid gently and effectively exfoliate the skin, making them ideal ingredients to apply. Our AHA Smart Renewal Body Serum features natural lactic acid from yeast that works to eliminate dead skin and helps the natural skin barrier repair process, and Lactococcus to help strengthen the skin's natural barrier, all of which can support the prevention of strawberry legs. Don’t just focus on your legs, though. Reap the benefits of this serum all over by gently massaging it onto clean skin all over the body. While it supports better hydration levels, it doesn’t hurt to follow up the serum with a moisturizing body cream to ensure you are doing all you can to ward off strawberry legs.

To reap the most benefits from exfoliation, don’t be afraid to use both a physical exfoliant and a chemical exfoliant. Monitor how your legs look and feel to determine what routine and type or combination of body exfoliators work best on your strawberry legs.

Sources:

1. WebMD: What are Strawberry Legs?
2. Very Well Health
3. Byrdie