What does dark skin on neck mean?

Author: Elbert Turcotte  |  Last update: Thursday, July 31, 2025

Acanthosis nigricans is a condition that causes areas of dark, thick velvety skin in body folds and creases. It typically affects the armpits, groin and neck. Acanthosis nigricans (ak-an-THOE-sis NIE-grih-kuns) tends to affect people with obesity.

Does dark neck mean diabetes?

Acanthosis nigricans (AN)

This skin condition causes dark patches of velvety skin in body creases such as your neck, armpits, or groin. Sometimes patches appear on your hands, elbows, or knees. Diabetes can cause skin infections or changes such as dark patches on the skin.

Why is the skin on my neck so dark?

Acanthosis nigricans can cause dark, thick skin on the neck. The skin may have a similar texture to velvet. This condition can appear suddenly, but it is not contagious nor does it present a danger to a person's health. People who are obese and those with diabetes are at greater risk of the condition.

How can I remove darkness from my neck?

Medical Treatments
  1. Medications. You can use medications that contain tretinoin, lactic acid, or glycolic acid to get rid of pigmentation. ...
  2. Chemical Peels. ...
  3. Microdermabrasion. ...
  4. Lasers. ...
  5. Creams And Ointments. ...
  6. Apple Cider Vinegar For Black Neck. ...
  7. Baking Soda For Black Neck. ...
  8. Potato Juice For Black Neck.

Does PCOS cause dark neck?

In people with polycystic ovary syndrome, skin in the armpits, on the nape of the neck, and in skinfolds may become dark and thick (a disorder called acanthosis nigricans). In dark-skinned people, the skin may have a leathery appearance (bottom photo).

Best Remedy for Hyperpigmentation

What hormonal imbalance causes dark neck?

Causes of acanthosis nigricans

conditions that affect hormone levels – such as Cushing's syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome or an underactive thyroid. taking certain medicines – including steroids or hormone treatments like the contraceptive pill.

What are the warning signs of PCOS?

Common symptoms of PCOS include:
  • irregular periods or no periods at all.
  • difficulty getting pregnant (because of irregular ovulation or no ovulation)
  • excessive hair growth (hirsutism) – usually on the face, chest, back or buttocks.
  • weight gain.
  • thinning hair and hair loss from the head.
  • oily skin or acne.

Will my dark neck ever go away?

Treating the underlying cause of acanthosis nigricans can make the dark patches of skin fade or even disappear. This can mean stopping any medicine that's causing the problem or treating diabetes and other health conditions. Losing weight will help acanthosis nigricans fade.

Which cream is best for dark neck and underarms?

Neck Creams Bestsellers
  • Bioderma Brightening Cream - Pigmentbio Sensitive Areas - External Intimate & Friction Care,
  • Chemist at Play Vitamin C Neck Knee Elbow Brightening Roll On for Men & Women,
  • ECOVANI Organics Neck & Back Whitening Scrub,
  • Luxuri Double Chin Neck Firming Cream,

How to get rid of dark neck with toothpaste?

Add half teaspoon white toothpaste and 1-2 teaspoon coconut oil and mix well. Apply this paste thoroughly on the neck, elbows and underarms. Take a small piece of lemon and rub it gently. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes.

Why is my private area dark?

The melanocytes in your skin produce melanin, and they are highly susceptible to hormonal changes, especially during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Some areas, such as the skin around your nipples and anus, get significantly darker.

What can be mistaken for acanthosis nigricans?

In rare instances, this condition can be found in areas other than skin folds, such as extensor surfaces of the fingers. Acanthosis nigricans can be confused with physiologic hyperpigmentation or lichen simplex chronicus in some patients.

How to clean your neck?

Weekly exfoliation is key for a smooth, radiant neck. It removes dead skin cells, revealing brighter, more even-toned skin. Try a homemade scrub with brown sugar, lemon, and honey, or choose Garnier SkinActive BlackHead Eliminating Scrub with Charcoal for a refreshing, invigorating experience.

What deficiency causes dark neck?

When your doctor or nurse did your exam, they pointed out a dark skin patch on your neck, armpit, under the breast or a skin crease. This dark patch is called acanthosis nigricans (AAY-can-THO-sis NIG-ruh-cans), or AN. It is usually a sign that your body is making extra insulin that it cannot use well.

What three drinks should diabetics avoid?

What are the worst drinks for diabetes?
  • Fruit juice (unless treating low blood sugar)
  • Sweetened coffee or tea.
  • Sweetened sports drinks and energy drinks.
  • Regular soda.

What product can remove dark neck?

Over-the-counter or dermatologist-recommended creams with ingredients like glycolic acid, retinol, or niacinamide can effectively help lighten pigmentation and nourish the skin.. Try targeted dark neck creams for optimal results.

Is dark neck serious?

In some cases, dark neck may be a sign of an underlying health issue that affects pigmentation, like acanthosis nigricans . 2 It's important for a healthcare provider to check out dark skin that could be related to diabetes, a thyroid disorder, a fungal infection, or another cause.

What does a ring around your neck mean?

In a few African and Asian cultures, neck rings are worn usually to create the appearance that the neck has been stretched. The custom of wearing neck rings is related to an ideal of beauty: an elongated neck.

How to exfoliate the neck?

Exfoliate weekly

Since your neck is delicate, we recommend a gentle enzyme or acid exfoliator like the Enzyme Exfoliant. Simply apply a thin layer over your face, neck, and décolletage before your shower—easy peasy!

What is a PCOS belly?

PCOS belly occurs when you develop excess fat or weight gain around your abdomen. This symptom often occurs due to an underlying diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance due to PCOS can influence your weight, causing you to gain unwanted weight.

What is PCOS 1st stage?

In PCOS, the blood contains an excess of androgens giving rise to symptoms, such as acne, excess body hair, and menstrual irregularities. The excess of androgens is associated with imbalances in other hormones (such as follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estrogen, and progesterone).

What is commonly mistaken for PCOS?

Ovarian cysts and PCOS are related conditions with many of the same symptoms, meaning that women often confuse the two, or wrongly believe that they have PCOS when they do not.

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