Grooming is an essential part of our beauty regime, but taking care of our private areas can be challenging. The sensitivity of the skin in that area makes it prone to rashes, allergic reactions, and dark spots. Many of us struggle with dark skin in our intimate areas, which can cause stress and insecurity due to the beauty industry's impossible standards. While it is natural to have dark skin in these areas, there are a few medical causes that should be considered.
Medical Causes Of Dark Skin In Private Areas
The main cause of dark private skin is a condition called Acanthosis Nigricans. This condition leads to darkening and thickening of the skin to the point of it feeling velvety. Obesity is the most common cause of Acanthosis Nigricans, but there are other factors like hyperinsulinaemia, cushing syndrome, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and heredity (African roots). Although this condition is usually not serious, rare cases may be tumor-related and require medical attention. It is always best to consult a professional to rule out any underlying medical causes and find the best solution for your skin issue.
Dark skin that is not caused by a medical condition is often associated with bad eating habits, smoking, excessive sweating, and using razors. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Dermatologists may suggest lightening creams, while beauty salons often recommend bleaching. If you prefer a more natural approach, here are 5 ways to lighten your private areas.
Natural Ways To Lighten Dark Private Skin
1. Massage The Area With Aloe Vera Gel
Picture: Aloe-vera both soothes and reduces pigmentation in skin
Aloe Vera is known for its soothing properties and is often used to treat burns and skin allergies. Studies have found that the active ingredient in Aloe Vera, aloin, can lighten and depigment the skin. You can either purchase Aloe Vera gel or extract it yourself by slicing open a leaf. Apply the gel to the affected area for 20 minutes and then wash it off.
2. Give Mulberry Extract A Shot
Picture: Mulberry extract inhibits skin darkening and melanin production
Mulberry extract, though originally from China, has gained popularity in the West for its skin-lightening properties. Studies have shown that the extract derived from mulberry leaves inhibits melanin and skin darkening. However, its effects are not as significant as kojic acid, which is commonly prescribed for skin lightening. On the positive side, mulberry extract is less likely to cause skin irritation. To use it, add mulberry oil to a base oil like coconut oil and massage it onto your skin for 20 minutes before showering.
3. Exfoliate With Soy Milk And Baking Soda
Picture: Soy milk proteins depigment the skin
Baking soda is a common ingredient found in most kitchens and beauty regimes. Its granular texture makes it suitable for gentle exfoliation. Soy milk contains proteins that help depigment the skin by inhibiting or reducing the transfer of melanin. Create a paste by mixing baking soda and soy milk, then gently scrub the pigmented area. Leave the paste on for 5 minutes before washing it off.
4. Use A Papaya-Citrus Pack
Picture: Papaya gently exfoliates and citrus lightens skin
Papaya is not only a delicious fruit but also effective in skin lightening. It contains an enzyme called papain, which gently exfoliates dead skin cells, revealing brighter skin. Both orange and green papaya are effective, but the green papaya contains more of the enzyme. Citrus fruits, on the other hand, contain vitamin C, which inhibits pigment production and acts as a natural bleach. However, they may cause itchiness, rashes, and skin allergies. To use this remedy, add lime juice to papaya paste and apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes before washing it off.
5. Use Licorice Root Regularly
Picture: Licorice inhibits melanin and lightens skin
Licorice root inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for darkening the skin. It is often used to fade suntans as well. To use this remedy, mix licorice root powder with water or rose water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area for 15 minutes and then wash it off.
As with any skin remedies, it is important to do a patch test to check for allergic reactions. Try these remedies on your wrist before applying them to your private areas. Once you have found a remedy that works for you, use it regularly to see the desired results. Remember, your beauty and self-confidence should never be defined by the color of your skin. Embrace your natural beauty and take care of yourself with these all-natural solutions.
