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How to get rid of black skin
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #11847
45 days ago
68

How to get rid of black skin - #11847

Veer

I am really struggling with something that honestly feels so overwhelming. A while ago, I started noticing these dark patches on my skin, especially on my elbows and knees. I wasn't sure if it was just from dryness or what, but now they seem to be spreading and I'm getting really worried about it. I’ve tried so many creams and remedies I found online—stuff that says it can help lighten skin—but nothing’s working! It’s like a never-ending battle, and I keep wondering how to get rid of black skin or at least get my even tone back. I mean, I’ve tried exfoliating more often, using moisturizers, and even some over-the-counter treatments, but they either do nothing or irritate my skin. Sometimes I feel like I’m just wasting my time and money. Plus, I can’t tell if I should see a dermatologist or if this is something that can be handled from home. I am also a bit worried it could be something serious like a skin condition. Does anyone have tips on how to get rid of black skin? Has anyone dealt with something similar? What worked for you? Even just knowing I’m not alone in this would help a lot.

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Doctors’ responses

Hyperpigmentation or dark patches on areas like elbows and knees are common and can be a little tricky to manage. Since you mentioned dryness as a possible factor, it’s worth emphasizing that consistent moisturization is crucial, especially in areas prone to friction or pressure. Friction can exacerbate hyperpigmentation, so try wearing loose clothing and using protective garments to minimize this. Since creams and exfoliation didn’t work, it’s possible the underlying cause might be more complex. Over-the-counter creams can sometimes irritate sensitive skin, especially those with active ingredients like hydroquinone or glycolic acid if not used properly. Consider using a gentle moisturizer with ingredients like urea or lactic acid, which help with hydration and mild exfoliation. Importantly, you mentioned the dark patches are spreading, which could suggest either an inflammatory condition like eczema or acanthosis nigricans. Eczema is often accompanied by dryness and itching, and acanthosis nigricans is characterized by velvety-textured skin darkening often tied to insulin resistance. To address this, lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight and managing blood sugar levels if you have concerns about insulin might be important. Since it’s unclear if the condition was triggered by an identifiable cause such as insulin resistance or friction, I recommend seeing a dermatologist. They can identify the exact condition and prescribe treatments like prescription retinoids or other advanced topical treatments tailored specifically for your skin type and condition. Self-treating without guidance, particularly when past attempts haven’t been successful and irritation occurs, may cause further skin damage or delay necessary treatment. It may also be helpful to review any new products you may have started using for potential irritants. If you don’t notice any improvement or if the situation worsens, prioritize seeking medical help to avoid more significant issues.

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