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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #15920
96 days ago
137

how to brighten hands - #15920

Ananya

I am totally freaking out about my hands lately. They just look so dull and kinda dark, and I really want to know how to brighten hands before my friend's wedding next month. Like, I was just looking at old photos, and I can’t believe how much my skin tone has changed! I'm not sure if it's just age or too much sun exposure over the years. I’ve tried a couple of creams but they don't seem to be working at all. I even started using sunscreen religiously, but still, no luck! I wash my hands constantly because of work, which might also be contributing to this. I read somewhere that exfoliation can help, but I don’t know how to do that without damaging my skin. A friend suggested lemon juice, but isn’t that a bit harsh? Also scared I might end up with weird spots or something! I went to a dermatologist a few months ago, and they recommended some sort of brightening serum, but it was really pricey, and I’m not sure if it even works. Does anyone have tips on how to brighten hands without breaking the bank or hurting my skin? It would mean a lot to me!

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Doctors' responses

To address dull and dark hands, it’s important to first understand the potential causes like sun exposure, frequent washing, and possibly even age-related changes. Since you mentioned using sunscreen, that’s a great start. This is essential to protect from further UV damage and prevent additional darkening. When it comes to exfoliation, this can indeed help, but it’s crucial to do it gently. You might want to start with a homemade scrub using sugar and olive oil. The sugar granules help slough off dead skin cells, while olive oil moisturizes. Just gently rub in circular motions a couple of times a week—don’t overdo it, or it might lead to irritation.

Regarding hydration, since frequent handwashing can strip the skin of its natural oils, consider using a good, non-greasy hand cream or a simple moisturizer after every wash. Ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which hold moisture, are ideal. A protective barrier like petroleum jelly (applied mainly at night) can also provide an extra layer of protection and help with moisture retention.

While lemon juice is a commonly suggested remedy due to its vitamin C content, it can be too harsh and cause sensitivity or irritation, especially if used undiluted. If you decide to use citrus-based treatments, ensure they are part of a well-formulated product designed for skin use, rather than applying straight juice.

If the brightening serums recommended by your dermatologist seem out of reach, you could look for over-the-counter products with active ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C, which are known for their brightening properties and are generally more affordable. These can help even out skin tone over time. If there’s significant concern about spots or uneven pigmentation, consulting with a dermatologist again might be beneficial to tailor a more precise treatment plan for your needs. Always remember to do a patch test when trying new products to avoid adverse reactions.

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