Dark skin on your knuckles has many causes. The darker pigmentation on your knuckles may be inherited or a reaction to a drug you’re taking, such as an oral contraceptive, a strong corticosteroid, or niacin. Darker skin on your knuckles can also be a sign of an underlying condition that needs to be treated, such as diabetes. They occur more frequently in people with darker skin pigmentation.
Some common household items that may help lighten your knuckles include:
- baking soda mixed with water into a paste and applied to your knuckles for 15 to 20 minutes
- lemon juice applied to your knuckles with a cotton ball daily
It’s a good idea to keep your knuckles and hands moisturized year-round. Also make sure to use sunscreen when you’re outside, even if your skin is naturally dark.
Although moisturizer and sunscreen won’t lighten your knuckles, they can help prevent damage and irritation from the sun, cold weather, chemicals, and hot water
There are many commercial products that advertise skin “lightening.” Some may be expensive and require long-term use. Be aware that not all commercial products perform as advertised.
Some commonly used OTC skin lightening products contain hydroquinone or lipohydroxy acid, which is derived from salicylic acid.
A dermatological study found that some natural ingredients can help lighten the skin. These natural ingredients, which usually don’t cause irritation, include the following:
- Soy. It can help lighten the skin and suppress additional pigment from coming to the surface.
- Niacinamide. This form of vitamin B-3 works in a similar way to soy.
- Ellagic acid. This acid is derived from strawberries, cherries, and pomegranates. It works to stop an enzyme that’s needed for melanin (skin pigment) production.
- Lignin peroxidase. This enzyme is extracted from a fungus that’s found in wood pulp. It can break down melanin.
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The same study found that the following natural ingredients can also help with skin lightening. However, these ingredients may be more likely to cause an allergic reaction.
- Arbutin. This is derived from plants, including blueberries and cranberries.
- Kojic acid. This is derived from a fungus found in wood pulp.
- Licorice extract. This is available over the counter as Liquirtin.
Aloe leaf extract is another natural ingredient that may help lighten skin, according to a 2012 studyTrusted Source.
Be sure to read product labels carefully so you know what types of ingredients are used in a skin lightening treatment.
Source; Healthline