With summer loading, so are the short sleeves, dresses and swimsuits! If you’re insecure about showing skin because you struggle with hyperpigmentation (darkened patches of skin) on the inner thighs or underarms, you’re not alone. Many women actually do!

These areas tend to be more prone to hyperpigmentation due to friction, shaving or the use of certain skincare products. Fortunately, there are several natural and effective remedies that can help you lighten these areas and regain your confidence.

Why does skin on the inner area of the thighs and underarms sometimes become dark?

Hyperpigmentation on these areas can be caused by a number of reasons, including:

• Chafing and irritation, which can occur during exercise or walking. This causes the skin to become thin, itchy, and discoloured.
• Hormonal imbalance, particularly among women during lactation, pregnancy, or menstruation, or among those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
• Certain medications, like hormonal oral contraceptives or certain chemotherapy medications.
• Sun exposure.
• Dry skin.
• Friction from tight clothing.
• Diabetes.

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3 natural remedies for hyperpigmentation

If you’re looking to treat hyperpigmentation from home, here are three natural remedies for you to try out.

Lemon and honey

Lemon and honey are both natural ingredients with skin-lightening properties. Lemon contains citric acid, which acts as a natural bleaching agent, while honey has moisturising and antibacterial properties.

Mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with one tablespoon of honey. Apply the mixture to your dark inner thighs and underarms. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.

Why it works:

Lemon’s citric acid gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and helping to lighten the dark areas. Honey, on the other hand, keeps your skin moisturised and helps prevent further darkening while fighting off bacteria that might exacerbate the issue.

Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera is a versatile plant with numerous benefits for the skin. It is well-known for its soothing and healing properties and can be particularly effective in reducing hyperpigmentation.

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf. Apply the gel directly to your dark inner thighs and underarms. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

Why it works:

Aloe vera contains compounds that inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Regular use of aloe vera gel can help lighten dark spots and promote an even skin tone.

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Baking soda and coconut oil

Baking soda is a natural exfoliant, while coconut oil is a superb moisturiser. Combining these two ingredients can help clear dark inner thighs and underarms effectively.

Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one tablespoon of coconut oil to form a paste. Gently scrub this paste onto your dark areas in a circular motion for a few minutes. Rinse it off with warm water and pat your skin dry.

Why it works:

Baking soda helps exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting the growth of new, lighter skin. Coconut oil keeps the skin moisturised, preventing further darkening and soothing any irritation caused by exfoliation.

If any skin irritation occurs, stop immediately and consult your doctor.

Remember, there’s embarrassed about when it comes to hyperpigmentation on these areas. It is very natural and with the right care and these natural remedies, you can achieve the radiant, even-toned skin you desire.

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