One of the most frequently asked questions in the world is, “why do several parts of our body, like our knees and elbows, look dark?” The answer can be found in scientific research, which found that dark knees are caused by hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentations is a common condition among people of colour. It is caused by an increase in melanin, which is responsible for the colour of our skin.
Hyperpigmentation can happen for a number of reasons. Elbows and knees can darken as a result of friction, caused by their constant bending and stretching. It can also be caused by pregnancy, infection or disease and prescription medication. Health experts advise you to visit your physician if you notice your skin darkening. Some people may consider it irritating or detrimental to their overall appearance, so they may want to reverse it. There are a number of methods you can use to reduce darkened joints.
The Best Ways to Fix Dark Knees
Pumice Stone
If you’re embarrassed by you dark knees, use a pumice stone in the bath to rub off any dead skin cells.
Natural Oils
Natural oils retain your skin’s moisture, which helps reduce any darkening. The best oils to use are coconut oil, sesame seed oil and olive oil.
Baking Soda and Milk
Baking soda is one of the most popular ways to lighten dark skin. When mixed with milk, it helps bleach and cleanse your skin. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with milk and rub the mixture on your dark spots using a circular motion. Do this for several consecutive days and you will notice the difference.
Sugar and Olive Oil
In this mixture, sugar acts as an exfoliate while the olive oil moisturizes the skin. You can make this remedy by mixing equal parts sugar and oil and then rubbing it on your dark spots for about 5 minute. Wash the area with mild soap and water.
Turmeric, Honey and Milk
Mix the ingredients together to form a thick paste. Apply this paste to your knees and leave it there for about twenty minutes. After letting it sit there, rub it in again for another 2 minutes before washing it off. This concoction works because turmeric has antiseptic properties while milk acts as a bleach and honey moisturizes the dry skin.
Bleaching Fruits
Some of the fruits we consume on a daily basis has bleaching properties. Such fruits include lemons, tomatoes and grapes. If you extract the juice from them and apply it to your darkened areas, you will start to notice a difference after several days.
Vinegar and Yogurt
When used together, these two ingredients help cleanse and moisturize the skin.
Sunscreen
At times, sunscreen can be expensive or hard to find. However, they are a great way of keeping your skin from darkening. They are highly recommended during the summer months, if only to reduce your UV exposure, but you can apply it year-round after you shower, alongside your regular lotion.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera moisturizes skin and prevents skin damage from sun rays, thus preventing the skin from darkening. If you have access to an Aloe Vera plant, break its fresh leaves and apply the innards to your darkened skin. You will be able to experience its magic watching your skin colour change.
Exfoliating Brush
While you’re showering, use an exfoliating brush to remove dead skin cells. This works best on moist skin.
Health Benefits of Getting Rid of Dark Knees
Dark skin on your knees or elbows is not a medical condition and is no cause for concern other than aesthetics. You don’t get any health benefits from having dark joints, nor do you get any from getting rid of the discolouration. However, while you are following the above methods, you may have some nice side effect. You can get rid of dead skin cells and dirt while you are scrubbing away!
The Best Time to Get Rid of Dark Knees
There is no single best time to get rid of dark knees. If they are bothering you, take action. They may simply be caused by dead skin cells or dirt, which is an easy fix. Try the remedies listed in this article and you will be sure to see results.
