Get Smooth Legs: Prevent Chicken Skin After Shaving

Many people experience strawberry legs, which is the term used to describe the dotted or pitted appearance that resembles the skin and seeds of a strawberry. This can be caused by several factors, including shaving, folliculitis, or overly dry skin. To avoid strawberry legs after shaving, it is recommended to use a new, sharp razor and to shave in the direction of hair growth. Additionally, using a moisturizing shaving cream or a gentle moisturizer after shaving can help prevent skin irritation. Exfoliating regularly with a loofah or washcloth can also help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores. For those with keratosis pilaris, a common skin condition that causes chicken skin, it is important to keep the area moisturized to prevent further irritation after shaving.

Use a new razor

Shaving with old, dull razors is a common cause of strawberry legs, which is the term used to describe the appearance of dotted or pitted skin that resembles the skin and seeds of a strawberry. This condition is often caused by shaving, folliculitis, or overly dry skin. Using a new razor can help prevent strawberry legs from recurring.

When you use a new razor, you reduce the risk of skin irritation and infection. New razors are sharper and provide a closer, smoother shave, reducing the chances of razor burn and skin trauma. It is important to note that shaving with old, dull blades can lead to nicks and cuts, creating an entry point for bacteria and potential infection.

Additionally, new razors are less likely to pull or tug at your hair, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs occur when shaved hairs curl back into the skin, causing inflammation and bumps. By using a new razor, you decrease the chances of hair removal trauma, resulting in smoother skin.

To maintain optimal results, it is recommended to replace your razor blades regularly. Dull blades can harbor bacteria and dead skin cells, increasing the risk of skin irritation and infection. Consistently using a fresh, clean blade helps prevent strawberry legs and promotes healthier-looking skin.

Lastly, when shaving, it is essential to prepare your skin properly. Exfoliating before shaving can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores and hair follicles. Additionally, always use a shaving cream or gel to moisturize and protect your skin. Shaving in the direction of hair growth can also help reduce irritation and the occurrence of strawberry legs.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is a key step in preventing strawberry legs or "chicken skin" after shaving. This process involves removing dead skin cells from the surface of your legs, which can help to reduce the appearance of strawberry legs and prevent ingrown hairs.

There are a few different ways to exfoliate. You can use a loofah, a buff puff, or a rough washcloth to gently slough off dead skin cells. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can irritate the skin and make conditions like keratosis pilaris worse. If you prefer, you can also use a gentle store-bought scrub or a chemical exfoliator. One person recommends using ammonium lactate lotion, which is a chemical exfoliator, every night after showering.

Exfoliation is particularly important if you have keratosis pilaris, a skin condition that causes tiny, rough bumps to appear on the skin, often on the upper arms and thighs. These bumps are caused by plugs of dead skin cells, so exfoliating can help to remove them and improve the appearance of the skin. However, it's important to be cautious when exfoliating, as it can dry out your skin, leading to more bumps.

To prevent dryness and irritation, it's recommended to moisturize your skin regularly, especially after shaving or exfoliating. Choose a moisturizer that is free of preservatives and fragrances to avoid stinging and further irritation.

By incorporating regular exfoliation and moisturizing into your skincare routine, you can help prevent "chicken skin" on your legs after shaving.

Moisturise

Moisturising is a key step in preventing strawberry legs and "chicken skin". This is because dry skin can cause or exacerbate the symptoms of strawberry legs, and keratosis pilaris, the condition that causes "chicken skin", is often a result of excessive dry skin.

Moisturising after shaving helps to lock in moisture and prevent skin dryness and irritation. It is recommended to moisturise with an ointment or oil-free cream to help prevent clogged pores. Lotions tend to make the pitting appearance of strawberry legs more pronounced. Moisturisers without preservatives are preferable, as preservatives can cause stinging.

If you have keratosis pilaris, it is important to ensure the area that needs shaving is kept moisturised. This will help to prevent further irritation. Shea butter is a good moisturiser to use after shaving, as it is rich in fats and oils and absorbs straight into the skin.

If you are experiencing skin irritation from shaving or waxing, an epilator may be a good option. This is an electrical device with mini tweezers that rotate and pull hair out from the root. While it sounds painful, it is usually well-tolerated and only needs to be done every two to three weeks.

Shave with the grain

Shaving with the grain is a technique that involves shaving in the direction of your hair's growth. This method is less irritating to the skin and can prevent common issues caused by shaving, such as razor burn and folliculitis, which can lead to strawberry legs.

When shaving your legs, it is important to first prepare the skin and hair. Start by washing your skin with a gentle soap or body wash to remove any dirt and bacteria. If you have dry skin, consider using a moisturising body wash or soap to nourish the skin and prevent dryness, which can exacerbate skin conditions like strawberry legs and keratosis pilaris.

After washing, it is recommended to let your skin and hair soften before shaving. You can do this by letting your legs soak for a short period, although some sources advise against this as it can cause the skin to swell, leading to more ingrown hairs. Instead, you can try applying a shaving agent such as baby oil or olive oil, or shaving cream to moisturise the skin and soften the hair.

Once your skin and hair are prepared, you can begin shaving with the grain. Use short, light razor strokes down your legs, following the direction of your hair's growth. Make sure to clean the hair from the razor between each stroke to prevent clogging.

After shaving, it is important to moisturise your legs to prevent dryness and irritation. Look for a moisturiser that is free of preservatives and fragrances to avoid stinging and irritation. Gently pat your legs dry and apply a layer of moisturiser to lock in moisture and protect your skin.

Avoid soaking your legs

It is generally advised to avoid soaking your legs for too long before shaving. This is because when your skin swells, more of the hair shaft is below the skin, which can lead to issues such as strawberry legs or chicken skin.

Strawberry legs refer to the dotted or pitted appearance that resembles the skin and seeds of a strawberry. This can be caused by shaving, particularly when done improperly with old, dull razors or without shaving cream. Shaving can lead to razor burn, which may cause folliculitis—inflammation and potential infection of the hair follicle. This can result in dark spots on the legs, resembling small black dots.

Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, presents as small bumps that look like tiny pimples, goosebumps, or "chicken skin." They are caused by tiny accumulations of the protein keratin and dead skin cells and can be itchy and dry. This condition tends to be seasonal, appearing more frequently during dry winter months and in low-humidity climates. Swimming pool chemicals can also contribute to chicken skin by drying out the skin.

To avoid these issues, it is recommended to use a moisturizing shaving cream and shave in the direction of hair growth. Additionally, ensure that you clean the hair from the razor between each stroke. While soaking for a long time is not recommended, you can still wash your legs with moisturizing soap before shaving and apply moisturizer afterward. This will help keep your legs hydrated and reduce the risk of skin irritation.

Frequently asked questions