New Delhi: Darkened knees and elbows can draw unwanted attention, making you feel uncomfortable when wearing shorter dresses. This condition arises due to hyperpigmentation and roughening of the skin in these areas compared to the rest of your limbs. Several causes and risk factors contribute to this issue, but you can minimize its effects by utilizing home remedies, pharmacy creams, and chemical peel treatments.
What Causes Darkened Knees and Elbows?
1. Hyperpigmentation due to sun exposure.
2. Inflammation from previous injuries.
3. Continuous friction and pressure on knees and elbows, leading to thicker, darker skin.
4. Skin conditions such as eczema, melasma, and psoriasis.
5. Use of birth control pills.
6. Accumulated dead skin cells and dirt.
7. Hormonal imbalances in conditions like diabetes and PCOD/PCOS.
8. Side effects of certain medications.
Home Remedies for Brightening Knees and Elbows:
1. Turmeric and Gram Flour Pack: Harness the skin-healing properties of turmeric by applying a generous mixture of turmeric and gram flour to your knees and elbows twice a week. Massage gently, allow it to dry, and rinse with lukewarm water before moisturizing.
2. Potato Power: Potatoes contain catecholase, an enzyme that lightens hyperpigmentation. Rub potato slices on your knees and elbows for 15 minutes, or apply potato juice and rinse after 15 minutes, followed by moisturizer.
3. Sugar, Olive Oil, and Honey Scrub: Exfoliate your knees and elbows with a mixture of sugar, honey, and olive oil. Massage for 3-4 minutes, leave for 10-15 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. This removes dead skin cells and dirt, revealing lighter skin.
4. Moisturize: Keep your knees and elbows hydrated with coconut oil, aloe vera gel, cucumber, or honey. Apply coconut oil before bedtime for skin hydration. Similarly, honey, cucumber juice, and aloe vera gel combat dryness.
Use of Pharmacy Creams:
Numerous creams and lotions in the market claim to reduce darkening, but not all deliver results. Opt for pharmacy creams containing glycolic acid, kojic acid, urea, lactic acid, or tretinoin for effective skin-lightening.
Recommended Options: Glyco-6, Glyco-12, Skinlite, Tretin 0.025%, Nigrifix, Xerina, Xeroclear, G-peel
These creams can reverse darkness and moisturize knees and elbows. Apply them at night and follow with moisturizer.
Remember that darkening of knees and elbows can lead to skin conditions. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep these areas moisturized and avoid tight clothing. Results may take 3-6 months to become noticeable, and consulting a dermatologist for personalized guidance is advisable.
In conclusion, getting rid of darkened knees and elbows is achievable through a combination of effective home remedies and pharmacy creams. Consistent care and patience are key, and consulting a dermatologist for tailored advice can further enhance your results. Keep those areas moisturized and bid farewell to discomfort when wearing your favorite outfits.