How to make your legs spring and summer ready, according to a dermatologist

Yahoo

21-04-2025

Though it may not seem like it in many parts of the country, summer is actually just around the corner. With the warmer weather comes blue skies, sunny days, vibrant blooms — and, of course, showing more skin. While lighter, brighter spring and summer fashion can be a welcome change after a winter spent swathed in wool, for those of us with dry, pasty, discolored or uneven skin (i.e. all of us?), shedding layers can bring a level of self-consciousness, if not downright panic. A first outing in shorts or a skirt can be especially daunting this time of year, as it means displaying a lot of leg. After months spent under wraps, even the most glamorous gams require at least a little extra TLC and, more likely, a full glow up.
"Concerns that occur most commonly on legs are dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, keratosis pilaris [small, red bumps], ingrown hairs and varicose veins," says Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates. "Generally, the best way to care for leg skin is by exfoliating to get rid of dead skin and prevent ingrown hairs, [and] also using hydrating body wash and moisturizer to keep the legs looking soft and shiny."
Of course, long-term leg care is not simply a surface-level affair. "[For the best-looking legs] I recommend trying to be active daily — like walking more — plus staying hydrated and protecting the skin from environmental factors like the sun," Spearman explains. "For other concerns like varicose and spider veins, elevating your legs can help prevent them from forming, and laser treatments can diminish their appearance."
Read on for Spearman's top solutions for all your most pressing leg-skin concerns, but don't be afraid to strut your stuff even if your pins are not camera-ready. My advice: Give yourself a close shave, slather on some inexpensive anti-bump cream, throw on a pretty dress and enjoy the ever-fleeting joy of a warm breeze on your bare, just-fine-as-it-is skin.
No one likes the look of flaky, rough-textured knees and legs, but the good news is, with consistent use, quality products can treat these issues — and treat them fast. Though these formulas are gentle, as with any new topical treatment, consult with a doctor first if you have sensitive skin, particularly if your dermatological issues are severe.
The bad news is: If you want to diminish the appearance of varicose or spider veins, you'll need to head to a doctor's office. Depending on the type and severity, these can be treated with surgery or, potentially, less invasive procedures like sclerotherapy and laser ablation. However, if you're prone to varicose and spider veins, Spearman says wearing compression socks and regularly elevating your legs can help prevent future outbreaks.
If you want to disguise your leg veins, high-quality self tanners can aid in blurring the blue-purple hue and make the condition look less severe.
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