How to manage my dark neck, black hands, and stretch marks?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a dark neck and black hands with stretch marks. I do not know what to do with this. I am worried.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on the description and attached picture (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), you are having acanthosis nigricans.

Please be reassured that this condition is quite common and is usually related to insulin resistance, weight gain, or hormonal factors, rather than an infection or poor hygiene. It causes dark, thickened, velvety skin most commonly over the neck, underarms, and sometimes the hands.

The most important part of management is to identify and address the underlying cause. I would advise checking fasting blood sugar, glycated hemoglobin, and lipid profile if not already done, along with maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight control.

For treatment, you need a combination treatment.

Use Glycolic acid 6% cream twice per week at night on the affected area.
Apply Urea, Lactic acid, and Propylene glycol cream on the remaining nights.
Apply Kojic acid cream daily in the evening to effectively reduce pigmentation on the hands and neck.
For stretch marks, apply olive oil and manage them.

Now moving on to your second concern, the stretch marks you are noticing are also quite common in young adults and usually occur due to rapid weight changes, growth spurts, gym supplements, or hormonal factors.

Stretch marks are not harmful, but they can be a cosmetic concern. Early stretch marks, which are reddish or purplish, respond better to treatment, while older white marks take longer and may not disappear completely but can improve in texture and appearance.

I would suggest that you apply Urea, Lactic acid, and Propylene glycol cream on alternate nights on the stretch marks for one month. Along with this, try to manage your weight, eat healthy, and do regular exercise. Consistency is key, and visible improvement usually takes eight to twelve weeks.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.