Dark Knees

I am of olive complexion and I have noticed that my knees have dark spots. I tried exofoliating and putting lotion almost everyday, it gets somewhat lighter but it's still there. I am embarrassed to wear shorts. What should I do?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
One of the common causes of darkening of knees is due to hyperpigmentation of the knee because of friction. This darkening occurs when an excess of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color, forms deposits in the skin.

Treatment involves hydroquinone, azelaic acid, corticosteroids, tretinoin cream and laser treatment. Please discuss these options with your dermatologist before using them.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.