‘Strawberry legs’ is a term used to describe the appearance of dark spots or dots on the legs. The appearance typically resembles the skin and seeds of a strawberry, hence the name. But while the ripe red strawberries are a visual treat, strawberry legs appear unappealing. Several reasons lead to such an appearance. Wondering how to get rid of strawberry legs? Read on.
About Strawberry Legs
Strawberry legs occur when hair follicles are exposed to air after shaving. This causes the open pores to oxidise, giving them a darker appearance than the surrounding skin. Also, the open pores trap dirt, dead skin, bacteria, or oil. The clogged pores further give a ‘blackhead’ like appearance. The skin thus appears pitted, darker, and dotted, resembling the texture of strawberry, thus, often referred to as strawberry legs.
What Causes Strawberry Legs?
Strawberry legs refer to a skin appearance that can be a result of different factors and conditions. These include:
- Improper shaving
- Clogged pores
- Folliculitis
- Keratosis pilaris
- Dry skin
Solving the Problem of Strawberry Legs
Strawberry legs treatment typically involves the removal of dead skin and deep moisturising. Some proven strawberry legs home remedies include:
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda has mild exfoliating properties that help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce the appearance of dark spots. To use it as a strawberry legs remedy, make a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Gently massage it onto the affected areas and rinse it off completely with cold water.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has a high moisturising effect. Its skin-soothing properties promote skin healing and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Simply apply pure aloe vera gel after exfoliation or hair removal. Massage it gently and let it remain for about 10 minutes before you rinse it away with cold water.
3. Sea Salt
Sea salt contains minerals like calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium, which help maintain the skin’s natural pH balance, reducing the appearance of dark spots. To use sea salt, create a scrub by mixing sea salt with olive oil or coconut oil. Gently massage the mixture onto damp skin. Rinse off with cold water after some time.
4. Honey and Sugar Scrub
Honey’s antimicrobial properties and sugar’s exfoliation can help improve the appearance of strawberry legs. Mix the two to create a natural scrub. Gently massage in circular motions to exfoliate and moisturise.
5. Ground Coffee
Ground coffee has a coarse texture that serves as a natural exfoliant. When mixed with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, it helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. To use, mix ground coffee with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, to form a paste. Gently massage the mixture onto damp skin. Rinse thoroughly and moisturise afterwards.
6. Witch Hazel
Witch Hazel is a natural astringent. Apply it to the legs with a cotton ball after exfoliation to help tighten pores and reduce inflammation.
7. Tea Tree and Jojoba Oil
Tea tree oil has high antibacterial properties that help prevent infections, while jojoba oil moisturises and promotes healthy skin. These oils work together to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and reduce the appearance of dark spots on the skin.
8. Buttermilk Bath
One of the best strawberry legs home remedies would be to soak your legs in buttermilk for approximately 20 minutes. The lactic acid present in buttermilk serves as a mild exfoliator, effectively scrubbing off dead skin cells. To experience spectacular effects, simply mix a cup of buttermilk into a pail of water.
9. Rose Water and Cucumber
Inflammation can be reduced when one uses cucumber, as it contains a lot of vitamin C. The rosewater has a soothing effect on the skin. The rosewater can be added to cucumber juice, which should then be applied to the skin. Wash off under cold water after 15 minutes.
10. Egg Whites and Lemon Juice
Egg whites can help whiten and tighten the skin as it absorbs the excess oil. This is because it contains lots of vital nutrients, which are useful in improving skin health. Lemon juice is a natural bleach and it fades out the visibility of dark spots. Combining these two can be an excellent strawberry legs’ remedy.
Conclusion
Strawberry legs refer to the appearance of pesky dark spots on the skin that resemble strawberry skin. While it does not cause any uneasiness or discomfort, the dark and bumpy spots are visually unappealing. But thankfully, strawberry legs home remedies help address the concern effectively.
Different ingredients can be used for strawberry legs’ treatment. They work as exfoliators, bleaching agents, or moisturisers and help the skin restore its natural shine and attributes.
