Having dark inner thighs is a common skin concern regardless of skin tone. In many cases, hyperpigmentation occurs due to friction from tight clothing, dry skin, chafing, or any kind of prolonged skin irritation.
Other contributing factors include certain medications, hormonal changes during pregnancy and menstruation, and health conditions, such as eczema, polycystic ovary syndrome, and acanthosis nigricans.
If you’re looking for ways on how to whiten groin, the following science-backed natural remedies might help:
1. Aloe Vera
It might surprise you to learn that aloe vera doesn’t just help moisturize the skin; it might also help lighten hyperpigmentation.
One study showed that aloe vera extract and its component called aloin can aggregate melanin, a natural pigment that gives skin its color. Typically, the more melanin you have, the darker your skin tone is.
The research demonstrated that melanin aggregation leads to skin lightening [1].
You can use fresh aloe vera gel and rub it on your inner thighs; rinsing is not necessary. Alternatively, you can use skincare products containing aloe vera extract and aloin.
1. Vitamin C
If you’re looking for ways on how to whiten groin, you might want to consider vitamin C.
A 2020 report concluded that vitamin C can inhibit melanin synthesis and that it is “widely used in dermatology as a treatment for depigmentation of hyperpigmented spots on the skin. [2]”
Another advantage of vitamin C is that it can “treat and prevent changes associated with photoaging. [3]” Photoaging is the premature aging of the skin due to repeated exposure to UV radiation.
Vitamin C is available in oral preparations. For whitening, however, the dermatologist might give you topical vitamin C in creams, serums, or concentrates.
Some people also use kalamansi or lemon juice because of their vitamin C content. However, please keep in mind that lemon and kalamansi are acidic and might cause dryness and irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
3. Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is a popular ingredient in skin lightening.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using a skincare product containing kojic acid to even out skin tone or lighten dark spots.
However, AAD also mentioned that skin-lightening ingredients, such as kojic acid, tend to be more effective once you eliminate factors that cause hyperpigmentation [4].
4. Retinoid
Along with kojic acid, AAD also recommends retinoids, which include retinol, adapalene gel, and tretinoin [4].
Experts say tretinoin creams work by lightening the skin and replacing older skin with newer skin [5].
How to Whiten Groin: Additional Reminders
As mentioned by AAD, skin-lightening products work best once you eliminate the source of hyperpigmentation.
In the case of dark inner thighs, common culprits include friction and skin irritation. For this reason, the ways on how to whiten groin also include:
- Preventing chafing due to friction. Consider wearing cycling shorts under your dress or skirt.
- Avoiding irritation from friction and sweat by wearing light and breathable bottoms and undergarments. Also, make certain that they are not tight.
- Being careful with the way you wax and shave.
- Try doing chemical peels and laser treatments under the supervision of a licensed doctor.
If you plan to use over-the-counter skin lightening products, don’t skip the research. Check if you might be allergic to one of the ingredients, and be sure to strictly follow the instructions to avoid complications.
Also, don’t forget to perform a patch test first before fully using the product. Apply a small amount of the product in a patch of skin (usually the inner arm near the elbow). Wait for 24 hours, and see if the skin will develop adverse reactions like redness or itching. If you notice such reactions, refrain from using the product.
Finally, the most important tip on how to whiten groin is to consult a dermatologist. They can help you identify factors that darken your inner thighs and recommend appropriate treatments.
Key Takeaways
Some of the possible ways on how to whiten groin include using aloe vera, vitamin C, kojic acid, and retinoid. They tend to be more effective once you eliminate factors that cause skin hyperpigmentation.
If none of these deliver, it’s best to get in touch with a dermatologist.
Learn more about Skin Health here.
