Although your legs are less exposed than other areas of skin, such as your hands or face, they are still susceptible to common skin problems ranging from acne to ingrown hairs. These problems can occur for a variety of reasons and, depending on their severity, can be treated in several ways.
Dry Skin
One of the most common skin problems on legs is dry skin. Dry skin can be contributed to by a variety of factors, such as dry air or weather, and occurs when too much moisture escapes the skin. Dry skin can be treated with products that have emollients or humectants. Emollients (such as cocoa butter) provide a protective layer over the skin that reduce the rate moisture escapes from the skin. Humectants (such as glycerin) draw moisture from the surrounding air and hold it close to the skin.
Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs on the legs are a common skin problem for those that shave their legs. These occur when the hair strand grows back into the follicle, causing inflammation and sometimes infection. Ingrown hairs can be prevented by using other methods of hair removal, such as depilatory creams, laser hair removal or electrolysis.
Moles
Moles occur when the substance that provides pigment to the skin, called melanin, clumps together. This clumping results in the dark appearance of a mole on the skin. Most moles are harmless; However, moles may also be a sign of skin cancer. As such, moles on the skin should be checked by a dermatologist or family physician.
Acne
Acne occurs when dead skin cells mix with sebum, dirt and bacteria and clog the follicles on the skin. Acne can vary in severity on the legs from simple comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) to inflammatory acne (pustules or cysts). Depending on the severity of the acne there are several treatment options available ranging from over-the-counter products (such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroixde) to prescription treatments (such as retinoids and antibiotics).
Eczema
Eczema, commonly referred to as dermatitis, is a skin disorder that causes scaly skin that is dry, itchy and red. In more severe cases it can leave skin cracked and bleeding. Treatments for eczema vary depending on how severe the condition is. For example, a corticosteroid cream may be used to reduce inflammation, or an antibiotic may be used to treat infection. Regular application of a skin moisturizer may also be used to help keep the skin from cracking and drying out.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins occur when the valves in the blood vessels weaken, allowing blood to flow backwards. This causes pools of blood to form around the valve, resulting in bulbous veins. According to the Mayo Clinic, varicose veins occur more commonly in the legs due to the added pressure experienced on the legs from standing. Depending on how severe the veins becomes, treatments can vary from self care, such as weight loss or elevating the legs, to medical interventions, such as vein surgery.
