Say bye to strawberry legs

Strawberry legs can make you feel a little conscious of your appearance. However, this is not something that one should worry about. Rukshmani Thakkar shares tips that can help you get rid of it

Women have multiple hair removal options, if they choose to. From waxing to epilators to laser hair removal and shaving, are some of the easily available options for hair removal. Keratosis Pilarsis is a non-contagious skin condition which can be cause due to shaving. Also known as a strawberry legs, this condition gives you small red bumps that have a seed like appearance.

Strawberry legs can make you feel a little conscious of your appearance if you’re wearing shorts, skirts or dresses. However, this is not something that one should worry about. Its one of the most common skin conditions and has over 1 crore cases each year in India alone. It can be easily controlled and treated by selecting the right skin care routine and service.

Here are some insights into this problem and how one can deal with it. Characterised by the appearance dark spots, Strawberry legs can be caused due to unclogged pores, excessive keratin building up extra skin which blocks pores and hair follicles. These blocked pores and hair follicles can lead to ingrown hair, causing the skin to get patchy and dry. Frequent usage of razors can also cause a condition called Folliculitis, where hair follicles can become inflamed and infected.

You can prevent strawberry legs with the following:

• Opt for dry brushing or exfoliation a day before shaving
• Opt for waxing instead of shaving
• Moisturise your skin to prevent dryness, patchiness and uneven skin
• Use a loofah during shower
• Shave once hair growth is enough
• Home treatments for strawberry legs:
• Dry brushing: Using this technique can help you in removing excessive skin build up. It also prevents ingrowths.
• Scrubbing/exfoliation: Scrubbing and exfoliating on a daily basis can help in cleaning out clogged pores. It also makes skin soft and supple.  One can use Human and Kind Body Scrub, it is vegan and gentle on the skin.
• If you don’t wish to buy one, you can also make a scrub at home with semolina, oil and honey. Baking soda and milk can also be used.
• Loofah: Loofah also helps in exfoliating and removing dry skin. Ideally, a loofah should be used for every alternate shower.
• Doctor prescribed creams and ointment can also help in curing the appearance of strawberry legs if the condition is aggravated.
• Chemical exfoliation: Chemical peels are also a great option but should be used under the guidance of a professional aesthetician.

The writer is Technical Head — Skin, Enrich Salon