Quick summary: Surging online search volumes reveal a massive UK demand for targeted leg care solutions as millions of individuals struggle with shaving irritation, ingrown hairs, and strawberry skin ahead of the summer season. To address these prevalent cosmetic issues, beauty specialists recommend replacing rushed hair removal habits with a structured routine combining dry brushing, chemical exfoliation, and mandatory daily moisturising immediately after bathing. Adopting these expert-backed dermatological techniques directly enhances personal well-being and body confidence by providing an accessible pathway to healthier, smoother skin during the warmer months.
Summer is here, and with it comes the annual scramble to get legs ready for shorts, dresses, and swimwear. New data from LOOKFANTASTIC highlights surging UK interest in leg care, with over 2.1 million searches in the past month for “how to shave legs” and 1.8 million for “strawberry skin.” Searches for “how to get rid of strawberry skin legs” have surged by 650% over the past 12 months.
From dry brushing rituals to glycolic acid body sticks going viral on TikTok, the humble leg prep routine is having a glow-up. LOOKFANTASTIC in-house beauty expert Jess Clarke has shared tips on how to get legs summer-ready and keep them that way.
Wake skin up with dry brushing
Before even stepping into the shower, dry brushing is one of the most effective ways to shift the dull, built-up skin that accumulates over the winter months. It stimulates circulation, encourages lymphatic drainage, and makes every product applied afterwards work harder. Clarke describes dry brushing as a reset button for the skin.
Experts recommend using firm, upward strokes from ankle to thigh before bathing, spending around two to three minutes across both legs. Choosing a brush with natural bristles allows for effective exfoliation without scratching, and doing this two to three times a week can lead to a noticeable improvement in skin texture over time. Dry brushing can also help remove dead skin cells, boost blood flow, and support the lymphatic system, leaving skin smoother and better prepared for subsequent treatments.
Tackle strawberry skin with glycolic acid
Strawberry skin, the dark dots and bumps that appear after shaving, is one of the most searched leg concerns in the UK right now. Glycolic acid is the ingredient quietly solving it. As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), it dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and fades the pigmentation caused by ingrown hairs, making it one of the most targeted treatments available.
The INKEY List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Stick is a mess-free option that has gone viral on TikTok for its visible results on strawberry skin. It targets keratosis pilaris bumps, ingrown hairs, and rough texture, with users and clinical claims noting improvements in skin smoothness. It should be applied two to three times a week, post-shower or before bed, directly to affected areas. Anyone using acids on areas exposed to the sun should always follow with SPF, as acids increase photosensitivity.
Rethink the hair removal routine
Hair removal is something most people do on autopilot, but technique makes a much bigger difference than people realise. Rushed shaving on unprepared skin is one of the leading causes of ingrown hairs, irritation, and the strawberry skin effect.
Shaving should always be done on freshly exfoliated, hydrated skin using a sharp razor and a proper shaving gel or cream, never dry, and in the direction of hair growth to significantly reduce irritation and the likelihood of ingrown hairs. For those who wax, hair needs to be long enough for the wax to grip properly, and a calming post-wax product should always follow to reduce redness.
Make daily moisturising non negotiable
Of all the steps in a leg care routine, daily moisturising delivers the most consistent results over time. Hydrated skin catches the light better, feels more comfortable in the heat, and is far more resilient to irritation. It is also the step most people skip, making it the easiest win for noticeably better-looking legs.
A rich body lotion or butter should be applied immediately after showering while skin is still slightly damp, to seal in moisture. Ingredients such as shea butter, urea, glycerin, or ceramides offer deeper, longer-lasting hydration, and a gradual tan lotion can be used to build a subtle, natural-looking glow alongside a moisturising routine.
Do not let feet undo the hard work
Summer-ready legs do not stop at the ankle. Dry, cracked heels are one of the most common skin complaints during the warmer months, and with sandal season underway, neglected feet can undo an otherwise polished look. With a few consistent steps, even the most neglected feet can be transformed quickly.
A targeted foot soak followed by a pumice stone or foot file can shift dry, hardened skin, while a thick overnight foot cream sealed in with a pair of cotton socks can leave feet noticeably softer within days. The INKEY can also be used on the soles of the feet a few nights a week to keep skin smooth throughout the season.
These expert-backed steps align with broader body care trends emphasising exfoliation, hydration, and targeted actives for visible results ahead of summer. By incorporating dry brushing, chemical exfoliation where suitable, proper shaving techniques, consistent moisturising, and foot care, many people can achieve smoother, healthier-looking legs. Experts advise always patch testing new products and consulting a dermatologist for persistent skin concerns.`