If the area on your elbows or knees is darker than the rest of your skin, you may be suffering from hyperpigmentation. No need to worry, hyperpigmentation is defined as the overproduction of pigment which is why the skin darkens in particular areas.

The elbows and knees are two areas many people have more pigmented skin and although common can still become a skin concern. Wearing clothing that reveals the knees and elbows can be quite embarrassing when they are dark which may account for why most people take a breath of fresh air when they discover they can lighten naturally.

Lighten dark elbows and knees by removing dead skin

Typically skin that has a darker pigment isn’t pigmented throughout every layer of the skin which is why it can help to remove layers of the skin. Certainly, you don’t want to remove the layers of the skin forcefully yourself (this can cause bleeding, scarring, and other complications) you can remove them bit by bit with exfoliation.

Best ways to remove skin cells

Exfoliation is the act of removing skin cells and can be executed in two ways:

Scrubs are used when a person wants to exfoliate manually. Manual exfoliation involves using an abrasive product that will assist in removing skin cells. Rocks, dirt, or microbeads

are rubbed across the skin in circular motions for about 1-3 minutes. Manual exfoliation can be performed 1-2 times per week to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally.

Chemical exfoliation involves placing a chemical such as an acid or enzyme on the affected area. These compounds help dissolve skin cells getting rid of them for good. Those who are sensitive may react to some chemical exfoliants so be sure to do a patch test before going for the bigger picture.

Use food to lighten dark elbows and knees

Natural and simple recipes that help lighten dark areas.

Food helps provide our bodies with all of the nutrients we need to stay healthy, and they can do the same for the skin. When you consume food nutrients are delivered to the rest of the body then lastly to the skin, so the skin may not be reaping many benefits from that hefty breakfast as you thought. Food can be used to lighten dark knees successfully and elbows when used the correct way!

Coconut oil to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally

Lighten dark knees

Coconut oil is already known for its insane ability to keep the skin hydrated but did you know that it can also help lighten pigmented skin? Coconut oil is loaded with Vitamin E, which can help repair damaged skin. Coconut oil can be mixed with a half part of lemon juice to create a mask that will help lighten dark elbows and knees, just leave the mixture on the skin for about 20 minutes then rinse. This method can be done up to 3 times per week.

Lemon to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally

Citrus fruits like the lemon are commonly used to lighten skin because of the high vitamin C content. A combination of vitamin C, potent antioxidants, and exfoliating properties allow lemons to lighten dark elbows and knees the natural way. Lemon juice is used to lighten skin; it can be left on the skin for about 20 minutes before it is rinsed. It is recommended that lemon juice is applied to the dark areas of the skin every day.

Yogurt to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally

Lactic acid is an ingredient commonly used in skincare products to help remove dry, dead skin cells, and fortunately, yogurt is loaded with it. Mix equal parts of plain yogurt and white vinegar to create a lightening paste. Apply your paste 2-3 times per week letting it marinade for about 20 minutes each treatment then rinse.

Baking soda to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally

Baking soda acts as a natural exfoliant by helping to remove dead skin cells that you already know help fight hyperpigmentation. To lighten dark elbows and knees with baking soda mix it with equal parts of milk to create a paste. Rub your paste on the affected area for about 2-3 minutes then rinse.

Check out some diet changes you can make for healthier skin.

Lighten dark elbows and knees by using skin care

Essential oils can help lighten skin

There are many essential oils that have the power to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally including:

• Sandalwood
• Lavender
• Jasmine
• Lemon
• Rose
• Galbanum
• Cedarwood
• Neroli

When applying essential oils directly to the skin, they should be diluted with a carrier oil such as olive, jojoba or coconut, some oils can cause the skin to react if applied at its full strength.

Lighten dark elbows and knees overnight!

The importance of sun protection

The sun happens to be one of the biggest factors that affect the skin. Ultraviolet B or UVB rays are responsible for burning the skin unless you’re wearing sun protection. If you have dark knees or elbows and they are exposed to the sun, they will only get darker deeming your skincare useless. Be sure to use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or more and if you’re going to be indirect sunlight apply sunscreen every two hours. Ultraviolet rays can pierce through clouds and glass so even if it’s a cloudy day, or you find yourself buried in a cubicle it is still important to use sunscreen to lighten dark elbows and knees.

Unless the pigment on your dark elbows and knees is there due to genetics, there is a way to diminish its appearance. Lightening dark elbows and knees naturally may not be easy but with dedication can be completely reversed.

Other methods to lighten dark elbows and knees naturally include:

• Drinking more water
• Avoiding putting pressure on the affected area
• Applying moisturizer on a regular basis
• Thoroughly drying an area after a shower or bath