How To Combat Orange Peel Skin Texture

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. Orange peel skin is another name for "textured skin" or "rough skin" 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.

Aging – If you’re around or over the 40 mark and experiencing orange peel skin, that jerk Father Time might be to blame. As the body ages, the skin loses its ability to stretch and contract back to its normal shape. The sagging skin stretches out your pores, making them appear large. The lack of elasticity and appearance of large pores give the effect of orange peel skin.

UV Radiation – Extended exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can cause skin damage. UV radiation penetrates the layers of skin and damages the cells’ ability to repair themselves. After a long period of time, the damage causes the skin to lose its elasticity.

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.

Breast cancer – If you notice dimpling or orange peel texture on your breast₃, make a doctor’s appointment right away. Orange peel skin on your breasts can be a sign of breast cancer.

(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

Over-the-counter facial peels – Facial peels can help smooth out orange peel skin and is a great treatment for regular maintenance. Over-the-counter facial peels will help your skin shed the top layers of dead skin cells, along with the layers of gunk in clogged pores and creating enlarged pores.

Medical-grade chemical peels – For more severe cases of orange peel skin, medical-grade chemical peels can help to slough away deeper layers of old skin to reveal smooth new skin and tighter pores.

Hyaluronic Acid – Dry skin is a common symptom of orange peel skin texture. To plump up your skin and tighten pores, you may want to try adding formulas with hyaluronic acid to your routine. This particular acid is a substance the body naturally produces and may do a great job of locking in moisture to plump up skin cells.

Glycolicacid – Glycolic acid is another great acid for skin care. It can be particularly effective at clearing away dead cells and leaving a brighter, smoother complexion.

Microdermabrasion – A non-invasive exfoliating procedure, microdermabrasion may help to improve uneven skin texture and uneven skin tone for a brighter and smoother complexion.

Retinol – Retinol is probably the most effective formula on the market. It increases your skin’s cell turnover rate, clearing away the old pitted texture of orange peel skin and revealing taut new skin behind. You may also experience skin purging when using a retinoid-based product.

Skin Health Tip: If you haven’t tried our Renewal Retinol formula, you must. This skincare product is packed with skin cell hydrators and soothing ingredients for orange peel chin, nose, forehead, cheeks, and every other inch of your face. Can you see the... a-peel?

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.

Sunscreen – UV radiation can permeate through the skin’s protective barrier and severely damage your cell’s elastin production₅. The solution is simply sunscreen. Sunscreen actually absorbs the UV radiation before it can penetrate into your skin. Think of sunscreen as an essential step in your skincare routine to protect your skin’s vitality.

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/

Article Reviewed by Wendy Johnson

Vice President, Marketing

Wendy Johnson brings to Alastin Skincare over 22 years of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and aesthetics industry experience in various sales, training, marketing and thought leader development roles.

After spending 10 years in gastroenterology at Tap Pharmaceuticals and Prometheus Laboratories, with sales and marketing oversight for in-line and pre-launch products, Mrs. Johnson transitioned to an aesthetic career at SkinMedica in 2004. While there, she was responsible for marketing one of the top 2 branded prescription hydroquinones, launching a leading branded low potency steroid, and oversight of the acne franchise line extensions.

In 2010, Wendy joined Merz North America where she developed and managed the Physician Relations department in support of injectable, topical and device business units under Medical Affairs, before transitioning into managing a Regional Aesthetics Marketing team.