Built for kneeling and bending, your knees take a beating day after day which can result in an unsightly, dark appearance. Neglected knees can be covered by pants or knee-length dresses, but sometimes your knees won't be camouflaged by layers of fabric. Having nice knees isn't easy, but a little time and care can bring out the best in these overlooked body parts.
Step 1
Remove layers of dead skin cells with an an over-the-counter exfoliant containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Massage the product gently into the knees, and then rinse. Repeat once or twice every week.
Step 2
Take lukewarm showers or baths, and limit your time in the water to 15 minutes or less. Excessive time in hot water strips the natural oils from the skin.
Step 3
Wash your knees with a gentle, moisturizing cleanser. Avoid products containing alcohol, perfume, deodorants or other harsh, drying ingredients.
Step 4
Pat your knees dry with a soft towel after bathing, leaving the skin slightly moist. Don't rub.
Step 5
Massage a thick moisturizer into your knees every day. Apply the moisturizer while your skin is warm and moist following a bath or shower. If your knees are extremely dry, apply moisturizer twice each day, in the morning and at night.
Step 6
Wear sunscreen to protect your knees from the harsh rays of the sun. Sun damage leads to dry, sagging skin and wrinkles. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
Step 7
Practice weightlifting or other strength-training exercises to firm and strengthen your knees.
Step 8
Reduce fat, including around your knees, with aerobic exercises such as jogging, cycling, dancing or a brisk walk.