Body Pigmentation

What causes pigmentation on the body?

• Sun exposure: the hands, arms and upper back get the most UV, which creates dark spots and uneven tone
• Friction and pressure: tight clothes, bra straps, bags, shaving, scrubbing and leaning on elbows and knees
• Inflammation: old acne, rashes, insect bites, eczema and scratching leave marks
• Hormones: pregnancy, pills, PCOS and thyroid changes
• Insulin resistance, which can cause dark, thick, velvety patches in folds
• Fungal infection such as tinea versicolor, which causes patchy colour changes
• Genetics and skin tone: Indian skin pigments easily

Black spots on the hands and hyperpigmentation on the arms

Hands and arms are exposed to the sun every day, which is why dark spots, tan lines and uneven tone show here first. Black spots on the hands are usually sun spots (lentigines). Use sunscreen on the backs of your hands and your arms, and reapply after washing your hands. Wear sleeves or gloves when driving.

Pigmentation on the upper back

Upper back pigmentation is usually marks left after back acne, along with sun exposure and friction from straps and bags. Avoid picking, wear breathable fabric, shower after sweating and treat the acne. Read our acne page for acne care.

Skin discoloration on the abdomen

Darkening on the abdomen is common after pregnancy, weight changes, waxing or irritation, and with hormonal conditions such as PCOS or insulin resistance. A dark line down the middle in pregnancy usually fades after delivery. Check with your doctor if the patches are dark, thick or spreading. See our PCOS page.

Dark knees and elbows

Knees and elbows darken because of friction, pressure, dryness, and thicker skin that sheds slowly. Moisturise daily, stop scrubbing, avoid leaning on elbows and use sunscreen if exposed. Dark, thick, velvety patches in folds should be checked by a doctor.

How do you reduce body pigmentation?

1. Protect exposed skin from the sun with sunscreen and clothing, and reapply every 3 to 4 hours outdoors.
2. Reduce friction and irritation: no scrubbing, loofahs, tight clothes or picking.
3. Moisturise daily so the skin barrier recovers.
4. Use gentle exfoliation such as a mild acid once or twice a week, not scrubs.
5. Treat the cause, such as acne, a rash or a hormonal condition, with your doctor.
6. Be patient. Body skin can take 3 months or more to show change.
7. See a dermatologist if patches are dark, thick, spreading, itchy or have been present for a long time.

Problem and solution: where The Compound Way fits in

The Compound Way does not make a body lotion or body pigmentation cream. We can help with the sun protection that stops body pigmentation from getting worse, and with face pigmentation that often comes with it.