What are ‘strawberry legs’ and how do you treat them? Here's everything you need to know (2024)

Ever noticed those little dark spots on your legs after shaving, where your hairs used to be? Chances are, you have strawberry legs (it's fair to note that the term ‘strawberry legs’ on TikTok has amassed 719.9M views and counting, so you're probably not on your own). In fact strawberry legs are exceptionally common and at GLAMOUR we champion embracing every quirk of our beautiful bodies.

No, it doesn't have anything to do with the Strawberry girl aesthetic that all the it girls are drooling over. This is a condition, and it's medical name is “open comedones”, which occurs when oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria clog the hair follicles, causing the pores to dilate and darken. However, it has been given a colloquial nickname of strawberry legs due to its resemblance to the fruit.

The dots are natural (and if you ask us, adorable), but, while they're not harmful or painful, some people don't like the way they look. But, what exactly is it, why does it happen and how do you treat it? We asked wax therapist andSugar CoatedfounderRosie Khandwala for everything you need to know about the teensy skin dots.

What are strawberry legs?

Hyperpigmentation

Strawberry legs can appear as hyperpigmented dots that appear at the site of a hair follicle. While they are common after shaving, they can also be caused by a variety of factors, including clogged or enlarged pores, or a build up of dead skin cells.

Folliculitis

Strawberry legs can also be a symptom of folliculitis, which is a common infection of the hair follicles that causes spots and a rash, as well as keratosis pilaris, which is a build up of keratin in the pores that's also known as ‘chicken skin’ as it can also look like goosebumps or plucked chicken skin.

What causes strawberry legs?

According to Rosie, there are several reasons why strawberry legs can happen. “One of the main causes is clogged pores as a result of a build up of oil, dead skin and in some cases trapped hairs,” she says. “Neglecting skin after shaving or depilation and not replenishing moisture is another common cause.”

Other less common potential causes could be a fungal infection, which will persist even if your shaving habits change. If you think this is the case, book in to see your doctor as you may need a prescription cream.

How do you treat strawberry legs?

Exfoliate

While strawberry legs are not harmful, some people may feel self-conscious about their appearance. There are several ways to treat or reduce the appearance of strawberry legs, such as exfoliating the skin, using a moisturiser, and avoiding tight clothing. In the majority of cases, treating strawberry legs should be relatively straightforward and cost effective.

“I've found the best way of treating the condition is with an easy to make home remedy using fresh yoghurt, which acts as a natural cleanser, mixed with oatmeal, honey and ground coffee, which all act as a gentle yet effective exfoliator,” recommends Rosie. “Regularly exfoliating the skin is the best first port of call when it comes to treatment, as well as keeping the skin moisturised and soft.”

Consider acne treatments

If the condition persists, apply any product which contains salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These are commonly found in products formulated to treat acne, but provide slightly more potent chemical exfoliation and sebum control. One product that's blowing up on TikTok for helping? Cerave's SA Smoothing Cream with Salicylic Acid.

How do you prevent strawberry legs from returning?

Exfoliate

Regular exfoliation is not only key to treat strawberry legs, but it's also ideal to prevent them. Both physical and chemical exfoliants can do the job. Physical exfoliants contain small particles that scrub away dead skin cells, while chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and glycolic acid dissolve the buildup within hair follicles and prevent the buildup of oil and bacteria. Be cautious not to over exfoliate with either physical exfoliants that can be too harsh on the skin and cause open lesions and skin breakage, and the chemical exfoliants which can lead to irritation.

Consider alternative hair removal techniques

Once you've treated your strawberry legs, you'll probably want to make sure the condition doesn't return, in which case, you might want to rethink your hair removal routine. “If you're prone to strawberry legs, try not to shave and swap to other methods of hair removal,” suggests Rosie. If you do shave your legs, make sure to use a sharp razor and shaving cream. Shave in the direction of hair growth and avoid going over the same area repeatedly.