What are effective tips for whitening elbows and knees? People with all skin types can develop dark skin on their knees and elbows. But those with darker skin tones are more prone because their skin is more inclined to overproduce melanin.
Dark skin on knees, elbows, and other joints may be caused by a number of factors, such as an accumulation of dead skin cells, friction, sun exposure, and certain skin disorders, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and eczema.
Dark knees are not hazardous, so treatment is not required. However, it may be possible to minimize their appearance with home remedies in some situations.
Natural Remedies for Whitening Elbows and Knees
You can attempt the following remedies for whitening elbowsand knees. However, always consult your dermatologist for the best treatment.
Emerald tea
Epigallocatechin gallate, the primary compound in green tea, is thought to help in skin-lightening treatment. A 2015 study revealed that this compound can prevent melanin accumulation by blocking tyrosinase, the main enzyme needed to produce melanin.
Here is one application for green tea: Green tea should be steeped in 1 cup of hot water, allowed to cool, and then it is applied to the knees twice daily using a cotton ball dipped in the tea.
Aloe vera
Tip for whitening elbows and knees: It is believed that aloe vera gel can lighten skin. Proponents of the plant, aloesin, lessens sun-induced hyperpigmentation.
To try it out: Apply 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel gently to your knees with clean hands two to three times per week.
Turmeric
Curcumin, present in turmeric, is believed to suppress tyrosinase activity, which reduces melanin formation and may help reduce hyperpigmentation. Curcumin is the major ingredient in turmeric, which is traditionally used to lighten skin.
Can Natural Treatments for Black Knees Be Used For Spots?
Dark patches, like dark knees, can be various conditions like age spots or liver spots. Age spots and liver spots can be brought on by prolonged sun exposure. They typically appear on sun-exposed areas including the face, shoulders, arms, and hands.
Natural home remedies may be worth trying. However, there are products made specifically to address these concerns. There are lasers also available for skin lightening/whitening.
How to Avoid Dark Knees
Here are the greatest preventive measures for dark knees. To lessen your risk:
- Apply sunscreen frequently, as UV exposure is a common cause of hyperpigmentation.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your entire body, including your knees.
- Moisturize every day. Moisturize your knees with lotion.
- You can avoid friction or trauma on the knees to prevent additional darkening.
For any concerns, consult your dermatologist.
Key Takeaways
Whitening elbows and knees: Can you treat them at home? Dark brown coloring of the knees is often also associated with some thickening of the skin. In most patients, it would be due to a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation due to friction from clothing or kneeling on the area for many years.
Friction activates the production of melanin in the skin as a way to protect the area. Any time your knees and elbows rub against something hard and rough, your skin will become harder and darker.
Typically, dark knees and elbows are not reflective of a certain health issue. For concerns, consult your dermatologist.
Learn more about Skin Care and Cleansing here.
