Melanin is a natural pigment that gives skin its color. If you notice dark spots or patches, particularly on the elbows, this can occur due to melanin overproduction. Though typically not a sign of severe health problems, you might want treatment to reduce the appearance of dark elbows. Below, learn more about possible causes and how dermatologists recommend making your skin tone more even.

What Causes Dark Elbows?

Anything that triggers the skin to produce extra melanin can cause dark spots to form on the elbows. This may happen as a result of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Additionally, dead skin buildup and irritation caused by skin or hair products may prompt the body to make more melanin. You might also notice dark patches due to insect bites or injuries, such as cuts and burns, on these areas of the body. 

Hormonal changes resulting from pregnancy or taking certain medications, including birth control, may also contribute. Sun spots located on the elbows can cause them to become darker than the surrounding skin. People of color are often more at risk of developing dark elbows as a result of the skin naturally producing more melanin. 

What Are Your Treatment Options?

First, rule out the possibility of underlying skin conditions. A dermatologist may perform an exam to determine whether the hyper-pigmentation results from psoriasis or eczema. If so, they can provide corticosteroid creams, oral retinoid medications, or light therapy to treat the condition. 

Otherwise, skin irritation might be the cause of the melanin overproduction. Switching to fragrance-free lotions, body washes, and hair products specially formulated for sensitive skin may alleviate irritation and even out your skin tone. If you have dark elbows caused by dead skin buildup, using an exfoliating body wash and applying moisturizing lotion to the affected areas can lighten them.

You may protect your skin from hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you spend time outdoors. If you need additional help with dark spots, a dermatologist may recommend over-the-counter creams containing azelaic acid, glycolic acid, or kojic acid. 

When you want treatment for dark elbows, contact Heibel Dermatology LLC. This dermatologist, certified by the American Board of Dermatology, provides diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant skin conditions to patients from the Greater Lincoln and Columbus, NE, areas. Call (402) 488-6969 to book an appointment with this skin doctor. Visit the website to learn more about their capabilities.