Hyperpigmentation is a very common condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding skin. Though usually harmless, this darkening can occur when an excess amount of melanin (the brown pigment that produces our normal skin color) forms large deposits in the skin. There are several medical conditions that can cause hyperpigmentation, and for those we suggest you see a doctor.
However, if your hyperpigmentation is caused by dryness, and not an underlying medical condition, then I’d like to share the remedy that finally helped me tame the darkening skin on my ankles.
First, I have discovered that regular exfoliation of the skin, not only on our face, but our bodies as well, can ward off a plethora of skin conditions, including acne and hyperpigmentation.
About a year ago I started an intense routine of exfoliation, followed by Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother and finally moisturization. This routine has greatly improved the skin on my ankles, so much so, I tried it on my bumpy elbows and have had even greater success. The unsightly dark bumps on my elbows are almost completely gone, and showing off my arms without feeling self-conscious is no longer a problem for me.
My routine is simple, inexpensive, and I hope it works as well for you as it has for me.
Step 1. Cleanse your skin with Black Soap using a Salux Exfoliating Cloth.
Step 2. Pat skin dry and then use a cotton ball to apply Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother. If you plan to leave your house and don’t want to smell like vinegar, then rinse and apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer like My Everything Cream.
Step 3. Follow Step 2 at night, but do not rinse away the vinegar or apply a moisturizer.
6 comments
I already used this method on my elbows thanks to your advice a few months ago. It also helped with my husband’s back acne. Don’t have any hyperpigmentation issues on my ankles, but like a lot of black women, I’d like to lighten the skin on my knees and get it as close to the color of skin on my legs as possible.