
You would probably agree that orange peels are best suited for cocktail garnishes and freshly squeezed summertime juice... definitely not for skin texture. But alas, when life gives you orange peels, they’re not always served in a delicious Old Fashioned.
Orange peel skin is a common symptom of aging that often accentuates the appearance of fine lines and large pores. But there are preventatives and treatments for this particular skin texture. So pour yourself a tall glass of something, throw in an orange peel just for fun, and get ready to learn more about orange peel skin and an anti-aging skincare solution.
What is Orange Peel Skin?
The term “orange peel skin” is used to describe lax skin with enlarged pores; this makes the skin appear dimpled, like an orange peel. is another name for "" or "" on the skin's surface.
Orange peel chin, orange peel cheeks, orange peel nose, and orange peel anything phenomena is also sometimes referred to as peau d'orange. It translates to “the skin of an orange” in French, which begs the question—why does everything, even a skin condition, sound so much better in French?
What Causes Orange Peel Skin Texture?
If you look in the mirror and see oranges rather than apples in your cheeks, there could be a few causes. While some are symptomatic of aging, other causes of orange peel skin may be more serious health concerns.
Most Common Causes of Orange Peel Skin Texture
Orange peel skin usually stems from a loss of elasticity in the skin—your skin’s ability to stretch and contract back into place. A loss of elasticity can enhance the appearance of large pores, fine lines, and other skin concerns. The most common culprits are age and too much sun exposure1 .
Orange Peel Skin as a Symptom of More Serious Conditions
Orange peel skin might indicate underlying health issues. In many cases, the skin can act as the body’s alert system. This is why it’s always wise to pay attention to your skin—it may be trying to tell you something about the health of your whole body2 .
Whether your skin looks like orange peels or if you feel like something is a bit off, it’s vital that you speak with your doctor about any significant changes in your body.
- Lymphedema – Orange peel skin may appear on a swollen arm or leg as a symptom of lymphedema. Lymphedema is a result of certain cancer treatments in which the lymph node is surgically removed or damaged. Other signs of lymphedema include:
- Reduced range of motion in the swollen arm or leg
- Aching
- Discomfort
- Infections
-
Hardened skin texture
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, set up an appointment with your doctor right away.
-
Infection – When bacteria penetrate the protective layers of skin, it can cause infections. Sometimes, those infections create pitting in the skin. Additional symptoms of skin infections can include:
- A feeling of warmth in the affected area of the skin
- Swelling
- Redness
-
Fever
If you’re unsure whether you’ve got run-of-the-mill orange peel skin or an infection, give your doctor a ring.
(Healthy Reminder: Even if you don’t notice orange peel skin on your breast, regularly check your breasts for irregular lumps, pain, bruising, redness, or swelling. Consistent self-exams may wind up saving your life.)
Best Treatment for Orange Peel Skin
Most often, orange peel skin is caused by aging or time in the sun (or both!). The good news is that orange peel skin is treatable, to a degree. Sadly, skin scientists haven’t found a way to completely reverse the effects of sun damage. But they have found something to protect against the effects of UV radiation (spoiler alert: it’s sunscreen).
While you can’t turn back the clock or undo UV radiation, you can help to boost your skin’s elasticity, smooth out rough bumpy skin, and minimize the appearance of pores, using the following:4
How To Prevent Orange Peel Skin
The key to preventing orange peel skin is supporting the skin’s elastin production. For best results, you’ll need a multi-pronged approach to keeping your skin smooth, tight, and stunning.
Skin Health Tip: Your sunscreen is a bottle of invisible armor. And when you go into battle with the sun, you want to be wearing the best—not what’s been rolling around in the trunk for the last two years. That’s why a high SPF sunscreen should always be layered on during your daily skincare routine. Try a tinted sunscreen. This elegant, lightweight sunscreen feels more like a moisturizing and skin tone-correcting serum than a sunscreen. Wear it proudly and say, “Not today!” to UV radiation.
- Exfoliation – Keeping skin consistently smooth will help to tighten pores. Try using a gentle exfoliant once a week and follow it up with an oil-free moisturizer.
- Retinol – Both the remedy and a preventative measure for orange peel skin, retinol does it all. Retinol stimulates skin cell turnover, resulting in smooth skin texture and tighter pores.
- Moisturizer – Dehydrated skin can pave the way for a rough orange peel texture and dimpling. Keep your skin supple with a daily moisturizer.
- Vitamin C – Vitamin C has been shown to accelerate collagen production and elastin production, the building blocks of plump and tight skin6 . Use a bit of Vitamin C serum on your face and lock it in with moisturizer to prevent skin sagging or enlarged pores.
Take a Bite Out Of Aging
Dealing with orange peel skin may taste a little bitter. But like gray hairs, orange peel skin can be another part of getting older. Thankfully, you can address this sign of aging with early prevention and effective treatment methods.
Maintaining your skin health is a key part of aging on your terms. Keep up with all parts of your health, and don’t let those gray hairs or changes in skin appearance make you feel different. Instead, enjoy the fruits of a life well-lived.
Find Your Skin Health Solutions with ALASTIN
Whatever your skin health goals may be, finding an effective product you trust can be difficult. But if you’re looking for a reliable, impactful, and nourishing skincare line, look no further than ALASTIN. From sunscreens to lotions, ALASTIN is here to support your skin concern every step of the way. Our dermatologist recommended skincare products are powerful yet gentle, perfect for all skin types. Whether you’re looking to reverse sun damage, get rid of crepey skin, or wash away dead cells to reveal a more youthful glow, our line of skincare products offers something for everyone.
Sources:
1. Hersh, Erica, and Cynthia Cobb. “What's Causing the Orange Peel-Like Pitting on My Skin and How Do I Fix It?” Healthline, 2019, www.healthline.com/health/orange-peel-skin
2. Montoya, Silvana, and Debra Sullivan. “Peau D'orange: Causes and Treatment.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 18 Dec. 2018, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314130
3. “Inflammatory Breast Cancer.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 Mar. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-2035541
4. Krause, Rachel. “What Is ‘Orange Peel Skin’-& How Can You Get Rid Of It?” Orange Peel Skin Pores Texture Treatment, 19 Feb. 2018, www.refinery29.com/en-us/orange-peel-skin-texture-treatment
5. “Health Effects of UV Radiation.” World Health Organization, World Health Organization, 16 Oct. 2017, www.who.int/uv/health/uv_health2/en/
6. Pullar, Juliet M, et al. “The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health.” Nutrients, MDPI, 12 Aug. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579659/