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That feeling of smooth, freshly shaved legs is hard to beat. But if you've ever noticed teeny dots on your legs — not quite razor bumps — you're not alone: You've been struck by strawberry legs. The good news is, they are nothing to worry about. But if they bother you, there are a few things you can do about them. Ahead, we ask New York-based dermatologist Marnie B. Nussbaum, MD, all about the fruit-inspired "condition," including how to get rid of 'em.
What Are "Strawberry Legs"?
“Strawberry legs is a condition referring to the appearance of pores or hair follicles on your legs,” explains Nussbaum. “This can be caused by folliculitis, or when dirt and oils get trapped under those pores/hair follicles.” That trapped debris creates small dots on the skin, which look a little bit like the seeds of a strawberry. See, if we give it a cute name, it isn’t so bad, right? That said, there’s nothing harmful about strawberry legs; it’s just a preference whether you would rather take the extra steps to avoid them.
Why Are Some More Prone to Strawberry Legs?
Strawberry legs can happen to anyone. Still, “Those with very fair skin and dark hair are most prone to strawberry legs,” explains Nussbaum.
How Can You Prevent Strawberry Legs?
Bothered by strawberry legs? Here are a few things you can do to reduce their appearance, or get rid of them completely.
Exfoliate
“The best way to prevent the appearance of strawberry legs is to dry brush or exfoliate your legs prior to shaving,” recommends Nussbaum.
Soak Your Legs
“Soaking your legs in warm water to soften the follicles,” may also help, says the derm.
Use Shaving Cream
“While shaving, use shaving cream and make sure to shave in the direction of the hair growth,” says Nussbaum. This will help keep a smooth shave and minimize the chance for ingrown hairs.
Rifle Paper Co. + Venus Pure Honeyflower Shave Cream
Rifle Paper Co. + Venus Pure Honeyflower Shave Cream
Dab Dry
Yes, there’s a right way to dry your legs.“After shaving, make sure not to rub your legs dry, and instead gently dab them dry to prevent irritation,” recommends the derm.
Moisturize
Nussbaum says to apply a skin-soothing moisturizer to shaved legs twice a day. She recommends CeraVe SA Body lotion, which contains salicylic acid and lactic acid to gently exfoliate as it reinforces the moisture barrier, as well as Isdin Uradin lotion, which is fantastic for dry and sensitive skin types.
Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.
