Dark inner thigh can be really irritating as you have to drop your mini dresses and skirts. Basically, it’s a common dermatological concern, affecting many people, no matter their gender or skin tone. This condition can develop when the skin builds extra pigmentation, called melanin, that gives colour to our skin. When there is excess production of melanin, it is called hyperpigmentation. In some cases, the darkness may cover the bikini or groin area. So, let’s delve deeply into dark inner thighs causes and how to lighten it, including its treatments and home remedies.
What Causes Dark Inner Thighs?
There are a number of dark inner thighs reasons due to which people experience this issue. Many potential reasons are mild, and the condition will likely be fixed once the cause has been addressed, while some require treatment, and a person should consult with a doctor if he/she is unable to recognise the cause. So, let’s explore some of the most common dark inner thighs causes.
Tight Clothing:
Too tight fitted clothes, like trousers and jeans, can rub against the skin, making the area warmer and more humid. Hence, this condition can lead to darker inner thighs.
Constant Friction:
Friction occurs when your thighs constantly rub together, leading to a dark inner thigh. Due to an inflammatory process in the area during walking or exercising, this condition causes increased skin pigmentation.
Hormonal Changes:
Some hormonal imbalances may influence pigmentation, especially in skin folds and lead to darkening of the skin. This is more common during pregnancy and menstruation or in diabetic people, for example.
Acanthosis Nigricans:
This is a medical condition that causes thick, dark patches on skin with creases and folds, such as inner thighs. This condition is more common in those who have obesity and insulin resistance.
Medication Side Effects:
Certain medicines can spoil your hormonal balance and increase melanin production, causing darkening of the skin.
Dark Inner Thighs Treatment and Home Remedies
Treatments:
Knowing the main cause (mentioned above) of the underlying issue is the first step to lighten the dark inner thighs. You can apply moisturiser regularly to the area, which is a simple and effective preventive measure to keep the inner thighs skin smooth.
For lightening the darker areas, a variety of treatments, with depigmenting and skin exfoliating properties, are available in the market. These treatments can include any of the various lightening ingredients, such as azelaic acid, kojic acid,, hydroquinone, tretinoin, ascorbic acid and niacinamide. Also, it has been said to some extent, collagen can lighten the skin, and for that you can start consuming collagen powder. All these options may work effectively on pigmentation that impacts the superficial or dermal skin layer.
Home Remedies:
Here are some home remedies that can help reduce the presence of dark inner thighs fungus:
The Mixture of Coconut Oil and Lemon Juice:
The use of coconut oil helps keep the skin hydrated and smooth, and prevents friction, while lemon juice helps control pigmentation. To make this effective remedy, mix a few teaspoons of coconut oil with the juice of half a lemon. Apply the mixture gently to the affected areas for 10-15 minutes, and wash it off.
Aloe Vera Gel:
Aloe vera comprises aloin that helps lighten the pigmentation and soothe irritated skin. Apply the aloe vera gel or an aloe vera-based product like a lotion, and let it soak into your skin. Washing it off is not required after applying.
Oatmeal Yoghurt Scrub:
Oatmeal is one of the most beneficial ingredients that can be used to control eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. On the other hand, yoghurt has lactic acid, which can help control pigmentation. To make an oatmeal and yoghurt scrub, mix the equal parts of yoghurt and oatmeal. Then, apply the paste to the affected area and leave for about 15-20 minutes. Finally, wash it off by gently scrubbing the area.
Baking Soda Paste:
Baking soda can help lighten and exfoliate your skin. But you should use it with caution as too much baking soda can hurt your skin and worsen any skin condition. To make a paste of it, mix equal amounts of water and baking soda. Then, apply the paste to the affected area. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes and then rinse it off.
Potato Rub:
Rubbing potato slices on your skin is a traditional remedy for dark patches on the skin. It is believed that potatoes contain Catecholase that can help lighten dark spots. Take a slice of potato and rub it on the affected area regularly for 10-15 minutes. Massage gently and wash it off at the end.
Sugar and Lemon Scrub:
Sugar may exfoliate the skin, helping remove the dead skin cells, while lemon juice helps control pigmentation. To make this solution, mix a teaspoon of sugar with a little bit of lemon juice and a tablespoon of honey. Then, apply the mixture to the affected area. Leave it dry for about 30 minutes, and wash it off by gently removing the scrub.
How to Prevent Darkening of Inner Thighs?
It might not be possible to completely prevent the appearance of a dark inner thigh. However, you can reduce the chance of experiencing it by following the simple tips:
- Maintain your weight through a healthy diet and exercise if you are overweight and obese.
- Do not shave or wax the area frequently.
- Maintain a good, healthy skin care routine.
- Wear loose fitting or comfortable clothing to reduce the friction in the area.
- Wear bicycle shorts or stockings under dresses to prevent chafing.
- Always apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to that area too if exposed to the sun.
- Do not scratch and rub the area constantly.
Conclusion
Dark inner thighs are a common skin condition that does not impact your health. One can undergo dark inner thighs treatment recommended by the expert; also sometimes home remedies work in diminishing dark patches on the thighs. Moreover, knowing the main dark inner thighs causes, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding friction or chafing and preventing sun exposure can help eliminate the risk of developing dark patches on the skin in the future.
