If you’re vaginal skin is darker than the rest of your body, you’re not alone — it’s perfectly normal and much more common than you would think. We’ll explain why genital skin is darker and whether it’s permanent. And while the color of your genital skin is just fine the way it is — whatever its color — for anyone who is troubled by their dark vaginal area, we’ll also explore how to lighten dark skin in intimate areas safely.
Why is genital skin darker?
A dark vaginal area primarily refers to the comparatively dark pigmentation of the external genital skin, particularly in the folds between the thighs and the labia, compared to the surrounding body. This is a common and natural form of pigmentation.
But it’s important not to confuse this with vaginal discharge darkness (more on this here).
When people talk about a ‘dark vaginal area,’ they are almost always referring to the external skin appearing several shades darker in comparison to the rest of their body.
There are multiple reasons why genital skin is darker. But first, such extra pigmentation is completely normal but also unique; the colour of genital skin varies among individuals. Now, here are some of those reasons why genital skin is darker:
Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can increase melanin production, leading to darker skin in the genital area.
Friction and Irritation: Wearing tight clothing, shaving, waxing, or engaging in physical activities can cause friction and inflammation. In response, the skin may produce more melanin — the pigment that gives skin its colour — as a protective measure.
Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to having darker skin in the genital area due to their natural skin tone.
Aging: As we age, our skin tends to accumulate pigmentation over time, and this can become more pronounced in areas like the vulva and general ‘private parts’.
Other Factors: Lack of proper hygiene leading to infections, excessive sweating, and the use of unsuitable products (such as harsh soaps or certain hair removal creams) can also contribute to darker skin in the genital area.
Is darker skin in the vaginal area permanent?
A dark vaginal area is not necessarily permanent. The level of pigmentation can often be reduced with consistent care and the removal of contributing factors. For instance, switching to breathable fabrics, using gentle, pH-balanced cleansers (like this one), and avoiding harsh grooming methods can gradually restore skin tone over time.
However, it’s important to understand that some level of extra (in comparison to the rest of your body) pigmentation may persist, especially if it’s influenced by hormonal changes and genetics. This is entirely normal and healthy! A dark vaginal area isn’t necessarily an unhealthy or unusual one. The goal shouldn’t be to completely lighten dark skin in the intimate area, but rather to ensure healthy skin in that area.
Watch this video for a quick TL;DR on the subject (blog post continues below).
Can a dark vaginal area be prevented?
Preventing genital skin from being darker than the rest of your body begins with minimizing common causes of dark intimate skin. Choose breathable underwear made from natural fabrics like cotton to reduce moisture and friction. Avoid prolonged wearing of tight clothes, especially during workouts or hot weather, to prevent heat and sweat buildup.
If not twice, ensure that you clean the area around your vagina at least once with products specifically formulated for intimate areas, in order to maintain the skin barrier and pH balance without causing irritation or buildup that may lead to pigmentation. This can avoid sweat build-up and keep infections at bay.
Grooming your pubic hair is also helpful. Trim, shave or opt for laser hair removal treatments to manage the excess hair growth rather than using hair removal creams or hot wax, which damage skin.
How to lighten dark skin in intimate area safely?
If your pubic skin is already dark, using creams or lotions formulated for the skin near the vagina can be very beneficial. But using products that are for other parts of the body could have a higher percentage of acids, leading to further darkness and sensitivity, so make sure to avoid those.
Got an intimate question you’re too scared or embarrassed to ask aloud? Try Nua’s Secret Chat — a safe space for asking sensitive questions and getting expert answers.
Read more articles by Dr Anupriya Goel here.
