Products to lighten dark knees and elbows

Knees and elbows have thicker, often drier skin and experience bending, pressure, and friction. Dark colour may remain after irritation, eczema, a scrape, or another inflammation; this is known as [Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation](/conditions/post-inflammatory-hyperpigmentation/). A new, itchy, scaly, painful, thickened, or rapidly changing patch needs a diagnosis before lightening products are chosen.

Apply a bland moisturizer regularly, especially after bathing, and reduce rubbing or kneeling pressure when possible. A gentle exfoliating lotion may smooth thick scale; stop if the area burns, cracks, or becomes red. Use sunscreen when the area is exposed. Do not use unlabelled bleaching mixtures or strong acids. A dermatologist may consider [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) or a supervised [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/) after identifying the cause and your risk of post-treatment darkening.

Arrange an examination for sudden widespread darkening, thick velvety skin, persistent itch, bleeding, pain, swelling, or a patch that changes shape or texture. Get advice before treating skin that is broken, infected, or actively inflamed.

Is this leftover pigment, dryness, eczema, or another condition? Which ingredients are safe for my skin tone? How can I reduce friction, and what warning signs mean I should stop treatment?