It’s summer which means we’ve all swapped our jumpers for t-shirts, trainers for sandals (pedicure, anyone?) and our jeans for shorts. Yep, bare legs. But, do you ever find your legs covered in weird black dots? Well, it turns out these are pretty common. They’re actually (informally) known as ‘strawberry legs’. The cause? Clogged pores. Here’s how to prevent them from forming.
By Beth Ludolf
-
1 What causes 'strawberry' legs?The little, black dots covering your legs are actually clogged pores (just like blackheads). They appear when open comedones get blocked with sebum, dirt or bacteria. The air causes the blockage to oxidise and turn black. These little dark spots resemble the seeds on the skin of a strawberry, hence the term ‘strawberry skin’.
-
2 Dry brushing
Drying brushing a couple of times a week has heaps of benefits. It detoxifies by increasing circulation and drainage (which can help reduce the appearance of cellulite). It invigorates by stimulating the nervous system and – most importantly – exfoliates away any dead skin cells. This encourages cell turnover and keeps ingrown hairs and clogged pores (the cause of 'strawberry skin') at bay.
-
3 Exfoliate
You’ve got a skincare routine, why not a bodycare routine? Your body needs TLC too. Get into the habit of regularly exfoliating your body – especially if you shave. It will help with razor burn, 'strawberry skin' and ingrown hairs. Using an exfoliating mitt with your scrub is a good way to use less product, too.
-
4 Shave the right way
Your shaving technique is definitely to blame too, so a refresher in shaving 101 might help. Make sure your razor is clean and sharp. Dull blades cause knicks and ingrown hairs. Hot water dries out the skin so turn the temperature down on your shower. Always use a shaving cream or gel to lubricate the skin and make sure you don't shave over the same area numerous times. Or just book a wax. Much easier.
-
5 Moisturise (a lot)
Dry skin is the enemy here. When your skin is lacking moisture, it ramps up oil production to overcompensate (that’s the skin on your face and your body). This can lead to breakouts, ingrown hairs and – you guessed it – clogged pores. Taking ten minutes to moisturise your body before bed is definitely worth it, we promise.
-
6 Don't fake tan straight away
Give your pores the chance to close up before you grab the fake tan. They’ll be most open after a hot bath or shower (and a big exfoliation sesh), so now is not the time to tan – it will only clog your pores further. Preferably, you should do your shower routine the night before you plan to tan.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What are ‘strawberry legs’ and why do you get them?
Strawberry legs’ are dark spots or black dots that appear on your legs due to clogged pores. These blocked pores, also called open comedones, fill with sebum, dirt or bacteria. When exposed to air, the blockage oxidises and turns black, resembling the seeds on a strawberry.
How can you prevent ‘strawberry legs’ from appearing?
You can help prevent ‘strawberry legs’ by regularly dry brushing and exfoliating your body. These steps remove dead skin cells and reduce clogged pores, which are the root cause. Keeping your skin hydrated and shaving with the right technique also helps keep dark spots away.
How often should you dry brush to benefit your skin?
Dry brushing a couple of times a week is recommended for the best results. This routine increases circulation, encourages cell turnover and effectively exfoliates away dead skin cells. Regular dry brushing helps keep your pores clear and reduces ingrown hairs.
What shaving habits help avoid clogged pores or dark spots?
Always use a clean, sharp razor and apply a shaving cream or gel to lubricate the skin. Avoid shaving over the same area multiple times and keep shower water temperature low to prevent drying your skin. These steps minimise irritation, ingrown hairs and help keep pores unclogged.
When should you avoid fake tanning after a shower?
Wait to use fake tan until your pores have had a chance to close up, ideally after overnight rather than immediately after a hot shower or exfoliation. Applying fake tan while pores are open can clog them further and worsen the appearance of dark spots.