Problem skin – from strawberry skin to parchment skin

The collective term ‘problem skin’ covers various skin conditions characterised by unevenness, dryness or cornification disorders. The causes are varied and range from genetic factors and hormonal influences to lifestyle and environmental factors. In order to develop optimal care and treatment, it is worth taking a look at the typical characteristics – from strawberry skin to parchment skin.

Strawberry skin: visible pores and spots

Characteristics: – small dark spots that look like strawberry seeds and often occur on the legs due to clogged pores or ingrown hairs.

Dos:

– Regular, gentle exfoliation (e.g. with lactic acid or salicylic acid)

– Moisturising with urea or hyaluronic acid

– Use of mild hair removal methods

Don’ts:

– Aggressive shaving or frequent waxing

– Mechanical exfoliants with coarse grains

Cosmetic treatments: Enzyme or fruit acid peels and laser hair removal to prevent ingrown hairs.

Elephant skin is a thickened, coarse skin structure

Characteristics: severely keratinised, rough and grey areas of skin, often on the elbows, knees or heels.

Dos:

– Regular care with keratolytic agents (e.g. salicylic acid, ammonium lactate).

– Rich, moisturising creams with ceramides or shea butter.

– Gentle, regular massages to promote blood circulation.

Don’ts:

– Drying soaps or alcohol in care products.

– Too frequent hot showers.

Cosmetic treatment: – Intensive peels, microdermabrasion or paraffin wraps.

Keratosis pilaris: small nodules

Characteristics: – Rough skin with small nodules, often on the upper arms, thighs and buttocks.

Dos:

– Moisturising lotions with urea or glycerine

– Light chemical exfoliants (salicylic acid, lactic acid).

– Regular, gentle skincare routines

Don’ts:

– Excessive rubbing or scratching

– Highly greasy products that can further clog the pores.

Cosmetic treatments: professional fruit acid peels and needling for a smoother skin texture.

Cellulite is characterised by uneven dimpling.

Characteristics: Dimples and unevenness, especially on the thighs and buttocks, due to weak connective tissue.

Dos:

– Firming creams with caffeine, retinol or peptides

– Lymphatic drainage and massages

Exercise and a healthy diet to strengthen connective tissue.

Don’ts:

– Lack of exercise and an unbalanced diet

– Clothing that is too tight and inhibits lymph flow

Cosmetic treatments such as radio frequency, ultrasound or cupping massages can improve microcirculation.

Parchment skin is thin, sensitive skin

Characteristics: very thin, translucent skin with visible vessels, prone to cracking and dryness.

Dos:

– Gentle care with barrier-strengthening active ingredients (niacinamide, panthenol, ceramides)

– Daily sun protection, even on cloudy days

– Use of mild cleansing products without surfactants

Don’ts:

– Mechanical exfoliants and aggressive active ingredients such as high-dose retinol

– Excessive sun exposure

Cosmetic treatments: Moisture infusions (hydrofacials) and cold plasma treatments to strengthen the skin barrier.

Conclusion:

Problem skin has many faces – from clogged pores to extreme dryness. Each form requires a targeted care and treatment strategy. With the right dos and don’ts and cosmetics tailored to the skin, many complaints can be visibly improved.

At Cosmacon, we develop scientifically based active ingredient concepts and treatments that are tailored to the individual needs of problem skin.

With Tojo Cosmetics, immediately available private label products are available, enabling brands to quickly and successfully launch a professional skincare line.

Please contact us if you are looking for tailor-made solutions for your customers with problem skin.