During the summer, I shave my legs far more often. Unfortunately for me, I have a condition called keratosis pilaris, otherwise known as strawberry legs or chicken skin.
Basically, it’s these little red bumps that pop up as a result of the proteins that build skin, keratin, building up over the pore to protect itself. No one is 100% sure what causes it, but nonetheless, it stinks.
Lately, I’ve been trying to find a way to get rid of it, and I think I found it in a video by abetweene on YouTube. Here are 3 steps that helped get rid of my strawberry legs. Now I only have a couple of patches!
Gently Exfoliate
Keratosis pilaris is made up of excess keratin on the surface of the skin that plugs pores and hair follicles. So in order to clear it up, you need to exfoliate the skin.
Because of the nature of the skin condition, you want to make sure you don’t damage the skin more. Dermatologists believe the keratin builds up as a result of trauma to the skin, such as shaving. Therefore, when you exfoliate the skin, you want it to be a gentle exfoliant.
Chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs work wonders here, but physical scrubs work as well. Just make sure you use one that isn’t too abrasive.
Deeply Moisturize
Now that your skin is thoroughly exfoliated, it’s time to moisturize. Dermatologists have found that people with strawberry skin often have dry skin as well, so be sure to use a lotion that works deeply.
You want to find something with humectants such as glycerin or hyluaronic acid, as well as something with as little alcohol as possible.
Now that you’ve put on your lotion, seal it in place with an oil, like argan or avocado, or a butter, like shea or cocoa butter. This will really lock all of the moisture in.
Evaluate Your Skin Care Products & Your Diet
As with any condition, it could possibly caused from something you are putting on or in your body. Whether it’s something clogging your pores, or a food your body just plain hates, it’s good to look into it.
You can also take supplements that are good for your hair and skin, like omega fatty acids, or things that boost your immune system and liver function, like MSM.
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Are there any tips you’ve found that cleared up your keratosis pilaris? It’s definitely work to keep it in check, but smooth skin is worth the effort!