These Two Products Made The Biggest Difference To My Strawberry Skin

While some might complain about the impending winter season, for years I couldn’t help but feel a considerable surge of relief. Winter, for me, meant wrapping up in extra layers. Layers that meant I could hide myself away thanks to one particular insecurity. My 'strawberry skin.'

But what exactly is 'strawberry skin,' you might ask? Dotted across various parts of my body (but mostly my legs and arms) are dark, spot like blemishes that resemble (you guessed it) the seeds of a strawberry. My work as a beauty journalist, means I'm aware that strawberry skin stems from one of two causes: it's either the result of shaved hair in the follicle that’s darker than the surrounding skin, or clogged pores, where any trapped product oxidises and takes on a darker tone.

If you shave your legs, strawberry skin could be something you're already well acquainted with. Removing hair with a razor can leave the pores and hair follicles wide open, creating an environment for the gathering of oils (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. The outcome? Well, strawberry skin makes its appearance.

Make no mistake - strawberry skin is a harmless quirk of beauty. But if achieving smoother more flawless looking limbs will bolster your confidence, then I've discovered two products that may help. They've improved my skin tenfold. In fact, both have secured long-term spot on my bathroom shelf. Firstly, enter Natrium's The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash, £18, which, I think it's fair to say, transcends ordinary cleansing. Not only does it purify pores and smooth the skin, but it does so without the risk of drying or stripping. There's the nourishing touch of glycerin, safflower seed oil and olive fruit oil to thank for that. And bonus points for versatility here too - it seamlessly transitions into a facial cleanser, offering gentle exfoliation that leaves skin feeling refreshed and balanced.

Next, a moment for Naturium's Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%, £18. While the body wash felt like an obvious choice (salicylic acid is renowned for sloughing away dead skin cells) I wasn't totally sure if applying a facial serum to my legs and arms would yield results. Yet I was intrigued - if this serum was already effectively minimising blemishes on my face, then it also had the potential to alleviate the dark marks on my body. And, spoiler alert, it did.

Dermatologist tested, the Naturium serum has worked a treat on my skin. Specifically designed to purify a congested complexion, the hefty does of niacinamide and zinc helps to soothe and calm even the most sensitive of skin types. I applied a small amount twice daily and saw a decided improvement in the tone and texture of my legs and arms within six weeks.

Will my strawberry skin ever totally disappear? Likely not. But this combination has done an excellent job at minimising its appearance. Would recommend.