Expert Advice on Strawberry Legs

As seen on Holland & Barrett

Dr Ross Perry’s expert advice on the causes and possible treatments for ‘strawberry legs’ was published in the Holland & Barrett website just in time for the summer season.  

Strawberry legs is a nickname for the rash of red dots that can appear on the legs after shaving. They’re also sometimes referred to as a shaving rash.

Dr Ross Perry, GP and founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics, told H&B:

“Strawberry legs are usually the result of clogged pores or hair follicles that create the appearance of tiny bumps or dark marks on the legs.

“They tend to look like pitted spots or blackheads, and are often most noticeable on freshly shaved skin, when open or clogged pores are easier to see.”

Dr Perry explained that they’re medically harmless, but can be a cosmetic concern.

“Strawberry legs become more noticeable in summer because people are more likely to shave regularly, wear lighter clothing and expose more skin. People with lighter skin tones tend to be more affected.”

He explained that shaving more often can open the pores and highlight follicles blocked with debris.

In addition, the excess sweat and oily sunscreen can also contribute to pore blockages, while the heat can make the skin more susceptible to irritation and inflammation.

How to prevent strawberry legs

The experts recommended a few simple DIY tips for keeping the skin healthy and reducing the likelihood of rashes:

1. Exfoliation to prevent pores from clogging
2. Check you’re using a clean, sharp razor. Dr Perry said:
   

   “Shaving with a dull blade or without proper prep can irritate your skin and open pores further,4 making strawberry legs appear darker. Make sure to invest in a clean, sharp razor, use moisturising shave gel and always shave in the direction of hair growth.”

3. Moisturise to keep skin hydrated. A product containing urea can be helpful to soften rough patches by breaking down dead skin cells
4. Cooler showers, as hot water can make the skin dry and more prone to showing irritation
5. Different hair removal methods, which are kinder to the skin than shaving. Dr Perry advised:
   

   “Epilation can be a good alternative, as it removes hairs from the root, which means there’s less exposure of the pore.

   “Laser hair removal is another great option for people prone to strawberry legs. Over time, it permanently reduces hair growth, which in turn minimises the chance of clogged pores and follicle-related bumps.”

Source

Dr Ross Perry’s advice was published at https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/natural-beauty/how-to-get-rid-of-strawberry-legs-from-an-expert/. Read the article in full for detailed advice on summer health from a variety of spokespersons.

Dr Ross Perry

Dr Ross Perry regularly provides expert comment and advises the media on a range of skincare and health-related issues.

He has particular expertise in skin surgery mole removal and melanoma; having removed thousands of moles in his career, both within the NHS and privately through Cosmedics Skin Clinics. He has provided expert advice on sun damage and sun protection for a variety of UK media and publications.

He also comments on the latest cosmetic and anti-ageing treatment methods.

→ DR ROSS PERRY

Leg Thread Veins

Leg thread veins, also known as spider veins, are small, fine blood vessels that appear close to the skin’s surface, often giving the skin a discoloured or mottled appearance. While they can be found on various parts of the body, they are particularly common on the legs. Many individuals find that these veins become more noticeable during the warmer months. As temperatures rise, the body tends to expand its blood vessels in an effort to regulate temperature, which can exacerbate the visibility of these veins, making them more bothersome in the summer.

When it comes to treatment options for leg thread veins, there are several effective methods available. One common approach is sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive treatment where a specialised solution is injected directly into the veins. This solution causes the veins to collapse and gradually fade from view.

Another popular option is laser therapy, which uses concentrated light to heat and destroy the thread veins without causing damage to the surrounding skin. Both treatments are highly effective and at Cosmedics Skin Clinics, the ‘See & Treat’ booking policy means that treatment can often be conducted in the same appointment as a consultation, providing a convenient solution for individuals looking to improve their leg appearance without waiting.

During a consultation, experienced doctors/surgeons will assess the extent of your condition and discuss the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Book your consultation online or call Cosmedics Skin Clinics today.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics

Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical skin treatments, carried out by GMC Registered Doctors.  The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxing injections, dermal fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.

Call 020 7386 0464 or email enquiries@cosmedics.co.uk to book an appointment.