How to Use Retinol to Lighten Dark Knees & Elbows

You can use retinol for dark knees & elbows but the results will be different depending on a few things.

Remember that retinol is not a bleaching agent.

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How Retinol Works

Retinol resurfaces the skin. This means that it speeds up skin cell turnover to get rid of old skin cells faster.

As new skin is being made, the skin will eventually look more evenly toned.

How To Use Retinol For Dark Knees & Elbows

The easiest way to use retinol for dark knees & elbows is to apply it as a serum at night.

Here are a few steps to follow:

Start with a low-strength retinol cream or lotion.
Patch test your skin first

Start by using the cream or lotion 1-3 times a week until your skin gets used to it
As your skin adjusts, use it daily
Always use SPF during the day to protect your skin

Do not use other acids or exfoliating ingredients at the same time as retinol. This will be too much for your skin.

Serums usually contain the more bio-active form of retinol. They are also more easily absorbed, and a little goes a long way.

How Long Retinol Takes To Work For Dark Knees & Elbows

Retinol will work slowly and gradually for hyperpigmentation. It can take several weeks to months to see a visible difference.

However, people with less hyperpigmentation and skin damage will see results faster.

How to Use Glycolic Acid to Lighten Dark Elbows & Knees

Can you use tretinoin for dark knees & elbows?

Yes. You can use tretinoin for dark knees & elbows. However, this kind of treatment must be used with caution.

Tretinoin is a much stronger version of Vitamin A and will absorb deeper into your skin at a faster rate.

While this means that it will work faster, it also means that it is more likely to have stronger side effects.

So, if you have stubborn hyperpigmentation on your knees & elbows, and you want to use tretinoin, I recommend that you consult your dermatologist or a professional for guidance. Patch test your skin, start gradually and with the lowest possible concentration, and watch your skin carefully for side effects and reactions.

Click here to read more about Tretinoin for Hyperpigmentation: How To Use & Is it Good

Best Retinol Serums For Dark Knees & Elbows

1- The Ordinary Retinol Serum with Squalane

This formula is a high-strength retinol serum that targets signs of aging, dryness, textural irregularities, and uneven skin tone. It is said to be suited to all skin types and is made as an Anhydrous solution.

The squalane component is a moisturizing agent naturally found in your skin. It enhances surface-level hydration and helps combat the dryness that can be associated with retinol use.

Click here to see The Ordinary Retinol Serum with Squalane

2- CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

This serum was developed with dermatologists to treat post-acne marks and uneven skin tone. This means that it will also work great for hyperpigmented skin with texture like on your knees & elbows.

It contains encapsulated retinol to help resurface your skin and licorice root extract to help brighten your skin’s appearance. It also has 3 essential ceramides that work together to lock in skin moisture and help restore your skin’s protective barrier, along with soothing niacinamide which also helps to brighten the skin.

You can Click here to see the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum on Amazon.

3- The Inkey List 1% Retinol Serum ( Scar, Mark and Wrinkle Solution)

This serum contains Retinol at 1% to reduce the appearance of marks, post-acne scar size, depth and discoloration and to help smooth out wrinkles.

According to the company, it was created in partnership with dermatologists to bed fast-absorbing, with minimal irritation. It also contains Apricot Kernel Oil & Squalane to help protect the skin against loss of moisture and improve the skin’s barrier.

You can Click here to see The Inkey List 1% Retinol Serum on Amazon.

Side Effects Of Using Retinol For Dark Knees & Elbows

The side effects of retinol may include:

Irritation
Redness
Itching or burning

Peeling
Purging or breakouts

If you use retinol in a concentration or frequency that is too much for your skin, you can experience one or more of the side effects above.

Purging happens when the impurities from the skin are brought to the surface faster than usual. It resembles a breakout but usually resolves on its own after 2-6 weeks.

However, if you experience redness, itching, burning, peeling or swelling that does not resolve in hours or a minimum of 3 days, then you need to either adjust the way you are using retinol or consider alternative treatments.

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