When the temperature rises, it’s officially time to pull out your mini dresses, swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts—whether you’re hitting the beach or just running errands. But showing off smooth skin often means reaching for your razor. And while shaving is a budget-friendly hair removal method, it can sometimes lead to pesky problems like ingrown hairs and the dreaded “strawberry legs.” Dr Neera Nathan, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, recently shared her go-to shaving routine; it might just be the game-changer your skin needs.
Shave like a pro: Harvard dermatologist ’s 4-step shaving routine
Step 1: Use a gentle exfoliating body wash
Before shaving, it’s important to prep the skin, but not with dry brushing. Dr. Neera Nathan, a Harvard-trained dermatologist, says dry brushing can be too harsh and may irritate the skin. Instead, she recommends using a gentle exfoliating body wash. Look for one with ingredients like lactic acid or salicylic acid, which help loosen dead skin cells and free any trapped hairs. This step helps your razor glide more smoothly and prevents ingrown hairs from forming.
Step 2: Always use shaving cream
Skipping shaving cream might save time, but it can lead to razor burn and bumps. Dr. Nathan insists that using shaving cream creates a protective barrier between your skin and the razor. This reduces friction, allows for a closer shave, and prevents cuts or irritation. Choose a cream that suits your skin type, something hydrating and fragrance-free is great if you have sensitive skin. The goal is to keep the shave smooth, safe, and gentle.
Step 3: Apply glycolic acid spray after shaving
After stepping out of the shower, the next important step is applying a glycolic acid spray. This helps prevent ingrown hairs by keeping pores clear and encouraging hair to grow outward. Glycolic acid is a type of gentle chemical exfoliant that also improves skin tone over time. Dr. Nathan recommends using a spray bottle for easy application across the legs. If your skin is sensitive, start slow and monitor how your skin reacts.
Step 4: Moisturise with a urea-based lotion
Finish off your routine by applying a moisturiser that contains urea. Urea not only hydrates but also helps break down rough or dry patches of skin. This keeps your legs soft, smooth, and free from flakes or irritation. It also helps soften hair regrowth, which can make your next shave even easier. Applying this moisturiser daily, especially after shaving, helps maintain that silky-smooth finish all summer long.
What Causes Ingrown Hairs and Strawberry Legs in the First Place?
Ingrown hairs and the dotted appearance known as “strawberry legs” can stem from several common skin issues. Understanding their causes—backed by clinical insight—can help in preventing and treating them effectively.
Shaving with poor technique or tools
Shaving is one of the leading causes of both ingrown hairs and strawberry legs. Using a dull or old razor increases friction and skin trauma, leading to irritation and follicular damage.The improper shaving—especially without lubrication, can cause micro-injuries that contribute to folliculitis and trapped hairs beneath the skin’s surface, which appear as dark dots.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is the inflammation or infection of hair follicles, often triggered by friction, shaving, waxing, or prolonged sweating in tight clothing. This condition frequently presents as itchy, acne-like bumps and may be mistaken for a breakout. Hot tubs and gym environments are common sources due to heat and bacterial exposure.
Clogged pores (Open Comedones)
When pores are filled with oil, dead skin, and bacteria, they can oxidise and appear as dark spots, resembling the “strawberry seed” effect on the legs. This visual effect occurs when sebum exposed during shaving oxidises, forming small dark dots. Adolescents and people with oily skin are more prone due to higher sebum production.
Dry skin and shaving irritation
While dry skin doesn’t directly cause strawberry legs, it exacerbates the issue. Shaving over dry, unexfoliated skin increases the likelihood of irritation and razor burn, making post-shave dots more prominent. Dryness also highlights existing follicular plugs and rough textures.
Keratosis Pilaris (KP)
Although technically a separate skin condition, keratosis pilaris often mimics the look of strawberry legs. It’s caused by a buildup of keratin—a skin protein—that blocks hair follicles, forming small, rough bumps. Research indicates that KP is more common in people with dry or sensitive skin and tends to flare in cold or dry climates. These bumps may appear red, purple, or flesh-toned and are often mistaken for acne or folliculitisStrawberry legs are nothing to worry about now, they are often the result of clogged pores, shaving irritation, or underlying conditions like folliculitis and keratosis pilaris. But with Dr Neera Nathan’s Harvard-approved 4-step shaving routine; gentle exfoliation, shaving cream, glycolic spray, and urea moisturiser—you can reduce bumps, prevent ingrown hairs, and keep your legs silky-smooth all summer long.Also Read: Hydrating vs moisturising: What’s the difference and which one does your skin really need
