The legs are often overlooked when it comes to skin care, but they are prone to most of the same skin problems that the face, hands, feet and other areas of the body experience. Dry skin and improper shaving techniques are the most common causes of rough skin on the legs. Dry skin, or xerosis, is more common during the winter or after swimming in chlorinated pools. With proper skin care, it is possible to get soft leg skin worthy of showing off in shorts and skirts.
Step 1
Use lukewarm water and gentle soap when bathing. Hot water dries out the skin, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, which can increase roughness and lead to cracking and premature aging. Bathe no more than once each day to avoid removing the body's natural layer of protective oils from the skin. Gently pat your legs dry with a soft towel after bathing.
Step 2
Exfoliate every few days to remove dead skin cells and make your legs softer. Use only fine-grained exfoliants, and avoid products that contain fragrances and alcohol, as these may cause skin drying and irritation.
Step 3
Shave your legs after bathing to minimize dryness and razor bumps. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a shaving cream or gel to reduce friction, shaving in the direction of hair growth and changing razor blades frequently.
Step 4
Apply a moisturizing lotion to your legs after bathing to lock in moisture and ease dry skin. Severely dry skin may benefit from an oil-based moisturizing ointment or from application of olive or baby oil after showering. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends using a moisturizer three to four times each day.
Step 5
Choose laundry detergents that are hypoallergenic to prevent skin rashes and irritation, and opt for clothing made of natural fabrics, such as cotton, to allow air to circulate around your skin.
Step 6
Use a humidifier inside your home during dry winter months to restore moisture to your legs. Central heating systems pull moisture out of the air, resulting in dryness, itching and flaking.
Step 7
Rinse your skin with cool water immediately after swimming in chlorinated water. Chlorine is drying and irritating, and leads to rough skin on the legs.
Step 8
Remember to use sunscreen on your legs every time you go outdoors without protective clothing. In addition to increasing the risk of skin cancer, excessive sun exposure causes skin dryness, age spots and wrinkling.
Step 9
Treat skin conditions such as dermatitis or eczema with prescription corticosteroids or immunomodulatory medications to get soft leg skin and to prevent infection and possible scarring.
Things You'll Need
- Exfoliant
- Shaving gel
- Moisturizing lotion
- Humidifier
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 or greater
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