Dermatologist shares method to get 'smooth and silky' skin in three easy steps

A dermatologist shared the three “easy” steps to get rid of “rough and bumpy” skin to make way for “smooth and silky” skin instead.

Lots of people struggle with strawberry skin and keratosis pilaris, leaving parts of their bodies riddled with little, unwanted bumps and marks. So-called strawberry skin is a common condition and cause of insecurity and frustration for many.

It’s where the skin on the legs has dark, sometimes red, spots on the legs reminiscent of strawberry seeds. There are several reasons someone may suffer with strawberry legs but it usually starts when the hair follicles or pores have become clogged with dirt, oil, dead skin or bacteria.

Similarly, “chicken skin”, medically known as keratosis pilaris, or KP, is another skincare woe which causes little bumps, reminiscent of goosebumps, across the skin. It’s most typical on the upper arms but, like strawberry legs, it can appear wherever else your body has hair follicles.

According to the NHS, it’s caused when your hair follicles become blocked with a build-up of keratin, a substance found in skin, hair and nails. Nobody knows exactly why keratin builds up, but the condition is thought to run in families.

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In a bid to find answers and solutions, many turn to social media where people and professionals alike are keen to share their experiences and recommendations.

Dr Aamna Adel, a dermatologist registrar based in London, is one expert who amassed a loyal following after taking to TikTok to share her wisdom and insight on a multitude of skincare and haircare woes.

One recent video has proved popular after Dr Adel shared the three step method to cure the conditions. In the video, she explains: “I’m a dermatologist and I’m going to give you three quick and easy steps that are going to take you from rough and bumpy to looking smooth and silky like a dolphin.”

She then advised washing with CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser three times a week, exfoliating with The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution three times a week and moisturising with lactic acid, like the Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion, each day.

For a “completely optional” extra, Dr Adel recommended using a retinol body lotion twice a week. People were keen to share their thoughts in the comments section. One person said: “Love these tips!” Another asked: “Dr A, Would this be the same as Keratosis pilaris?” To which, Dr Adel confirmed it was.

Someone else lamented: “I’ve had this for years, no matter how much I exfoliate or moisturise it never goes away. I've started using glycolic acid, let’s hope it works," while another person shared: “On top of that, having a body lotion with urea worked great for my skin!”

In one comment, Dr Adel added: “Always apply the moisturiser 5 mins after showering to damp skin."