The skin on the back of my hands is changing color. Why?

Question

Hello doctor,

The skin on the back of my hands is changing color. My skin is dark in some places and lighter in others. My knuckles look darker like they have a black patch. What is this? Currently, I am on Alyacen 1/35. I was taking Ferrous sulfate two pills per day.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If possible forward a few pictures of the affected area to guide you through precisely.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I saw your pictures (attachment removed to protect patient identity). I can see dry skin with pigmentation prominent on the knuckles. Your concern may be pseudo-acanthosis nigricans. Check your body weight, if you are overweight try to reduce it. If you are using any medication like OCPs (oral contraceptive pills) or anti-asthma medication or any oral steroids they may be a trigger.

Pseudo-acanthosis may run in families as well. Start using Averi moisturizer twice daily after the bath and start Linolenic acid-containing capsules twice daily after food. Check your TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels and report to me. Plan for Q-switch laser sessions after having enough reviews about the technology.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.