How to remove dark spots knees and elbows?

Both areas experience pressure and dryness, so thickened skin and friction can make them look darker. Pigment may remain after inflammation or injury, known as [Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation](/conditions/post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation/). Other patterns can resemble it, including [Melasma](/conditions/melasma/), [Sun Spots](/conditions/sun-spots/), or [Tinea Versicolor](/conditions/tinea-versicolor/). A clinician uses the distribution, texture, scale, symptoms, and history to narrow the cause.

Use a mild cleanser, pat the skin dry, and apply a fragrance-free moisturiser daily. Avoid scrubbing, picking, tight rough clothing, and prolonged kneeling on hard surfaces. Apply sunscreen when the areas are exposed. If home care is insufficient, a dermatologist may consider [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/), a [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), or [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/). These procedures require careful selection because irritation can worsen uneven colour.

Seek a skin review when patches spread, become scaly or velvety, itch repeatedly, hurt, crack, bleed, crust, or appear without an obvious trigger. Get prompt care for infection signs such as warmth, swelling, pus, spreading redness, or fever. A changing or non-healing spot should not be treated only with fading products.

What features identify the cause of these spots? Should I treat dryness or inflammation first? Which option is safest for my complexion? How can I reduce friction, and what symptoms mean I should stop a product?