The topic most aren’t comfortable having, and for good reason. Why do our private area’s develop a darker colour? For those that don’t know what we’re talking about, count your blessings. But for those that do, here are some reasons why we have our colour shifting difference.
1) Friction: The most common reason for the difference in colour comes from the constant chafing from our day to day activities. From the constant movement, our melanocytes (colour cells) start getting hyperactive making more and more pigments. The abnormal amount of pigment create is then called hyperpigmentation, or in simple terms, too much colour compared to the rest of our body.
2) Sensitivity to hormones: Hormone changes in the body are normal, our whole body produces the previously mentioned pigments that give us our beautiful colour and glow. However when it comes to our female parts, our oestrogen and progesterone levels can cause melanin to go into overdrive, resulting in more colour.
3) Sneaky south: Since we always cover our parts, a lack of ventilation will open the doors to moisture buildup (not the good type) and cause your skin to darken. That’s why its important to wear breathable underwear, or better yet, sleeping without undies will help with keeping your areas dry.
What can help prevent going to the dark side?
1) Exfoliating can help with reducing the symptoms of hyperpigmentation, and help clear the skin all together. The main role of exfoliating is to reduce melanin by breaking up pigmented cells and getting rid of your dead skin faster.
2) Applying turmeric slows down the rate of melanin production. With consistent use, a turmeric based routine can help with uneven skin and give off a more uniformed look.
3) Lemon oil is an essential oil that also slows down the production of melanin. Its also excellent because it has antioxidants and Vitamin C. Another wonder about the oil is that it also contains carotene and lutein, both of which have been shown to lighten skin.