You’re either someone who embraces the latest fruit-themed beauty trends or someone who wishes they would disappear entirely. From Hailey Bieber’s viral “strawberry girl” makeup look to the fruit-infused skincare craze led by brands like Glow Recipe, fruity beauty has been everywhere. But when it comes to skin and fruit, there’s one trend we’d all rather skip: strawberry skin.
Also known as keratosis pilaris, strawberry skin gets its name from its resemblance to the dotted surface of a strawberry. “It refers to the appearance of dark dots on the legs, particularly in the pores,” says Dr. D’ara Spearman, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates. As the weather warms up and more skin is exposed, strawberry skin, along with issues like cellulite and dark spots, tends to become more noticeable. The good news? There are plenty of effective treatments.
So how do you achieve that smooth, bump-free, seedless look? With expert advice and the right routine. Here’s a detailed guide to what strawberry skin is, how to treat it, and which products can help smooth things out fast.
Do I Have Strawberry Skin—and What Causes It?
Because this condition resembles a strawberry’s surface, check for small dark dots on the skin, especially in the pores. “These spots typically appear in hair follicles and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as clogged pores, shaving irritation, keratosis pilaris, or ingrown hairs,” explains Dr. Spearman. While it tends to show more clearly on lighter skin tones, anyone can develop strawberry skin.
What Ingredients Work Best to Treat It?
The best ingredients for treating strawberry skin are gentle exfoliants and pore-clearing agents with anti-inflammatory properties. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are particularly effective. “Salicylic acid, a BHA, helps exfoliate inside the pores, while glycolic and lactic acids (AHAs) smooth the surface,” Dr. Spearman says.
Be cautious not to over-exfoliate, which can dry out the skin. That’s why Dr. Spearman also recommends urea, a mild exfoliant that hydrates the skin. If ingrown hairs are also an issue, retinoids may help. “Retinoids support skin cell turnover, preventing hairs from getting trapped,” she notes.
Will I Always Have It? Or Does It Go Away?
“Strawberry skin is easily treatable and usually improves significantly with consistent care,” says Dr. Spearman. It’s not a permanent condition, but results require patience and the right approach. “Consistency is key. Regular exfoliation, proper shaving methods, and keeping the skin moisturized can lead to great improvements. In some cases—especially with keratosis pilaris—it may require long-term maintenance,” she explains.
Best Products to Treat Strawberry Skin
1. Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash
Amazon price: $15.99
“This salicylic acid-based body wash is a total game changer,” says beauty editor Nerisha Penrose. “It soothes rough skin, exfoliates effectively, and leaves skin baby-smooth. Fragrance-free with a rich gel texture, it lathers beautifully.”
2. Salicylic Acid Moisturizer
Amazon price: $21.82
“It contains salicylic acid and is gentle enough for daily use,” says Dr. Spearman. “It won’t strip your skin while helping clear the pores.”
3. African Net Exfoliating Bath Sponge (2-Pack)
Amazon price: $5.99
“I absolutely love these,” said one Amazon reviewer. “They exfoliate so well—I’ve ditched loofahs for these. The smooth scrubbing feel is exactly what I needed.”
4. AmLactin Daily Nourish 12% Lactic Acid Lotion
Amazon price: $11.83
“This is another excellent option,” Dr. Spearman says. “It combines lactic acid for exfoliation with moisturizing ingredients to improve texture over time.”
5. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Amazon price: $28.00
“For more stubborn cases, apply this liquid BHA to the legs a few times a week,” says Dr. Spearman. “It’s great for clearing clogged pores.”
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading authority in fashion, lifestyle, and beauty, ELLE.com stands out for testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing experts, and curating trusted consumer favorites. For this guide, beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose consulted a board-certified dermatologist to identify the best products and practices to treat strawberry skin.
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