How to Treat Dark Spots on Bikini Line
Especially now that it’s bikini season, you’re probably feeling particularly conscious about those black spots on your bikini line.
When it comes to the topic of bikini area discoloration, things might feel awkward. But you don’t need to feel embarrassed about it. Discoloration of skin is a common skin concern. Fortunately, it’s easily treatable with the right skincare products and a few lifestyle tweaks.
Here’s what’s causing your bikini line hyperpigmentation, and how to get rid of dark spots on bikini line.
WHAT CAUSES DARK SPOTS ON THE BIKINI LINE?
Wondering why you’re getting dark skin down there? There could be several reasons why, including hair removal methods, chafing, and genetics. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin on your bikini line produces excess melanin — the pigment that gives skin its color. When skin produces too much melanin, that’s when issues like dark spots can pop up on your nether regions. However, dark spots can also affect other areas of your body, including your inner thighs and underarms.
Here’s a more in-depth look at the causes of pubic area discoloration.
Shaving
One of the most common causes of dark spots is poor shaving habits. When you shave without shaving cream or with a blunt razor, you increase your risk of razor bumps, ingrown hairs, and skin irritation. Your body reacts to inflammation by producing excess pigment, leaving behind a dark spot once the injury has healed.
Chafing
Another common cause for hyperpigmentation in your pubic area is chafing. If you’re seeing dark skin around your bikini area and inner thighs, that’s a clear sign you’re dealing with chafing. Chafing occurs when your inner thighs rub again each other, causing friction and leading to the formation of dark spots. The more moisture and sweat there is in that area, the more likely you’ll experience chafing.
Hormones
Hormones can also cause skin discoloration, particularly in women who are pregnant or nursing. Estrogen plays a main role here, as a sudden increase in production of the hormone stimulates an overproduction of melanin, which in turn can result in hyperpigmentation.
BEST WAYS TO TREAT BIKINI AREA DISCOLORATION
From lifestyle changes to dark spot corrector skincare products, here’s how to treat dark spots on your bikini line.
Moisturize
When it comes to lightening dark spots on the bikini line, a great way to start is by moisturizing on a daily basis — preferably twice a day. Look for a lotion formulated with hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These will help skin moisturized and restore the skin’s lipid barrier, protecting it from external aggressors. A good moisturizer also serves as a barrier to prevent friction from chafing and tight clothing. Apply to the affected areas morning and night.
Try Truly’s Flower Child CBD Moisturizer — a formula of hyaluronic acid and hemp to soothe, moisturize, and heal. Another excellent choice is Truly’s Golden Pineapple Serum, which brightens, hydrates, and plumps.
Apply a Dark Spot Remover
To treat dark marks and spots on your bikini line, you’ll need a specialized topical treatment that helps fade discoloration.
Truly’s Jelly Booster Pigment Treatment is your best option. Formulated with antioxidant-rich pomegranate and collagen-supporting vitamin B12 to brighten, lighten hyperpigmentation, and quell inflammation caused by razor burn and ingrowns.
Exfoliate
Exfoliation helps to buff away dead skin cells and spur the generation of new, more evenly pigmented skin cells for smoother, clearer skin. It’s also an important step in shaving to prevent dead skin and dirt from clogging up your razor, securing an easy razor glide.
Opt for a formula like Truly’s Blueberry Kush CBD Body Scrub. The anti inflammatory and antioxidant-rich collab between CBD and blueberry helps improve skin tone while easing irritation. It also contains chemical exfoliants lactic acid and salicylic acid to buff away dead cells to detoxify and lighten dark patches. Plus, it’s enriched with nourishing natural ingredients like coconut oil and rose to soothe and hydrate skin.
Reach for Retinol
Retinol is a dermatologist’s favorite for treating all sorts of skincare woes. This vitamin A derivative works by speeding cell turnover, helping to minimize the appearance of dark spots on skin. Just be careful not to overuse, as retinol can cause irritation — especially in dry and sensitive skin types. You’ll find retinol in cleansers, lotions, and in Truly’s Purple Rain Glow Serum.
Retinol and glycolic acid are the power couple in this dark spot correcting serum. Together, they help speed cell turnover, slough away dead cells, and uncover your freshest, clearest skin.
HOW TO PREVENT DARK SPOTS ON BIKINI LINE
Here are some easy ways to prevent discoloration from appearing on your bikini area.
Improve Your Shaving Routine
Invest in a handful of nourishing shaving products to ensure the smoothest shave without razor burn, ingrowns, or irritation.
Try Truly’s Ultimate Coco Cloud Bundle. It features a shaving cream, moisturizer, and after-shave serum plus a five bladed razor and fuzzy blue bag for your dreamiest shave ever. All three skincare products help to soften skin and hair follicles for the most seamless shave without ingrowns, irritation, or hyperpigmentation.
Wear Looser Clothing
Tight clothing is a common cause of discoloration. You can prevent it just by changing into looser, more breathable clothing that won’t cause friction.
Apply Sunscreen
Off to the beach? Don’t go anywhere before layering your skin in a broad-spectrum SPF. And if you’re planning on sunbathing, make sure you apply sunscreen everywhere to protect skin from harmful UV rays, which are known for triggering discoloration.
ARE THERE ANY HOME REMEDIES FOR BIKINI AREA HYPERPIGMENTATION?
Some beauty enthusiasts have suggested natural skin lightening DIY treatments like lemon juice. However, we don’t recommend them, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin as it may cause irritation and even worsen symptoms of discoloration.
It’s best to look for formulas that contain ingredients known for skin brightening such as vitamin C, kojic acid, lactic acid, retinol, and niacinamide.
As you can see, there are many ways you can address dark spots on your bikini line. Remember to also take the preventative steps to stop dark spots from forming in the first place.
