Here are two primary ways clogged pores can become inflamed, resulting in the appearance of strawberry legs. Folliculitis occurs when the hair follicles become inflamed. Common causes include: Lack of consistent exfoliation (aim for 2-3x a week) results in the pores becoming blocked by oil & dead skin cells.
Aim to exfoliate once a week using a gentle body scrub, washcloth, or loofah to remove dead skin cells without irritating your skin. Shave Correctly: Shaving in the direction of hair growth can prevent razor bumps and burns. Shave after a warm shower when your pores are open.
If you don't have sensitive skin, you can use a dry brush around 2-3 times a week. If you use a chemical exfoliant, you'll only want to use it once a week. Exfoliating Gloves: Exfoliating gloves are a type of physical exfoliant made with an abrasive material that helps buff away dead skin cells.
Exfoliants
Look for products that list glycolic or salicylic acid. Those ingredients help ease inflammation, exfoliate dead skin cells, and unclog pores. Dr. Zeichner recommended Neutrogena Pore Refining Exfoliating Cleanser.
You should exfoliate your skin prior to shaving, as exfoliating first can help prevent the razor from becoming clogged with dead skin cells (which can reduce its effectiveness). In other words, exfoliating first is a serious pro tip for a closer shave.
You'll want to wet your skin and apply a body cleanser before using the glove on your skin. Sugar or Salt Scrubs: Among the most popular physical exfoliants, the tiny sugar or salt granules are exfoliating agents that reveal softer, smoother skin with every use.
There are a few general rules to follow, though. 1) It's good to exfoliate at night in order to encourage skin repair while you sleep—but if you use harsh and irritating ingredients like retinol at night, opt for exfoliating in the morning. 2) Watch out for red, irritated skin and little bumps.
It just seems like the hairs are thicker after shaving or removing them because the top part of the new hair has to push through your skin's surface as they grow back.
The best method for exfoliation is buffing your product into damp skin in small, circular motions or using an exfoliating tool in short, light strokes. You should never exfoliate immediately after shaving, especially if you have an open cut or sunburn.
Genetics: Some people may be more prone to ingrown hairs and strawberry skin due to their genetics. Hormones: Hormonal imbalances can lead to an increase in hair growth and a higher risk of ingrown hairs.
Exfoliate your legs using a clean washcloth or loofah, then moisturize to keep your skin hydrated. Moisturizing can also improve how strawberry legs look and help prevent another outbreak. But avoid products that contain fragrances or dyes.
If you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions. Do this for about 30 seconds, and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water. If you use a brush or sponge, use short light strokes. Never exfoliate if you have open cuts or wounds or if your skin is sunburned.
It depends on the product you're using and the ingredients. Generally, chemical exfoliants are applied to dry skin and then washed off with warm or cold water. If you're using a physical exfoliant on your body in the shower, exfoliating wet skin is much easier.
"Nothing happens if you don't exfoliate — you just walk around with bumpy or slightly dry skin, which is inconsequential except for cosmetic reasons," Dr. Reynolds says. "No one has to exfoliate, but it can be helpful to exfoliate the arms and legs," she adds.
Should a person cleanse or exfoliate first? Cleansing washes away dirt, makeup, and other skin impurities. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts. Cleansing first may remove surface-level dirt, allowing for better access to dead skin cells when exfoliating.
Pro Tip: Exfoliate before shaving. Legs can be really tender and sensitive after shaving. Exfoliating after shaving not only defeats the purpose of exfoliating, you want to remove all the dull cells and build up before shaving.
One of the best ways to treat shaving bumps and burns is exfoliating. If you also want to prevent razor bumps, make this a regular part of your routine. Exfoliation is the process of scrubbing away dead skin from the surface. This also deep cleans your pores of bacteria and oily buildup.