How to fix acanthosis nigricans?

If you have noticed dark, velvety patches on your skin, don’t fret because you might be experiencing a condition called acanthosis nigricans. And if you’re wondering what the hell that is and how to get rid of it, then welcome aboard. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything there is to know about acanthosis nigricans and provide some humorous suggestions on how to fix it.

What Is Acanthosis Nigricans?

Before we delve any further into fixing this condition, let’s first discuss what acanthosis nigricans means. According to dermatologists, acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a medical term used for dark pigmentation or discoloration on the neck, armpits, groin area, elbows or knees. It can also affect other parts of the body where there are folds, such as under your breasts or buttocks; although AN can develop in anyone regardless of age and race most often affects people who are either overweight or have diabetes .

So Why Do We Develop It?

Unknown causes are said by experts 90% of the cases but one factor suggested could be hormonal imbalance which induces over production of melanin leading to dark colored skin.

Apparently being overweight/obese in more than half patients with AN was found..But do not worry we won’t recommend following Meghan Trainor’s “all about that bass” advice

Symptoms To Look Out For

The symptoms associated with acanthosis nigricans include scaly skin,[] itching [(which makes sense cause I mean who would practically visit dermatologist because they love intimate feeling]] , raised bumpy growths better known as Papillomatous [(fancy word alert)] lesions . Generally speaking darker-colored patches from AN should catch our attention.

Now that we know what AN is and its symptoms let us discuss ways to get rid of it.

Practical Ways To Tackle Acanthosis Nigricans

P.S: Before deciding/attempting any solution please consult a dermatologist.

Weight Loss Is Key

One of the best solutions for treating AN, especially if your condition stems from being overweight or obese[], is through weight loss. Not only does increased physical exercise lead to weight-loss but it also decreases insulin resistance which indirectly reduces AN as well [].

A study conducted showed that introducing modest changes in one’s lifestyle such as reducing calorie consumption, sugar intake combined with select activities can result in higher improvement rate than even medication use to control diabetes (American Diabetes Association) . Aim for that healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) range!

Easy On The Carbs & Sugars

Sweets always seem like a good idea during those cheat meals buuttt those sweet cravings may be causing more harm than we realized by increasing insulin levels leading to acanthosis nigricans relatively quickly because of this.Pastries and extra sugar should stop frowning at you now.

Medication Alert

It’s worth noting here that some drugs such as oral contraceptives, corticosteroids thyroid hormones among others increase risk factors on temporary basis . Utilizing these medications on a long-term basis will only give pigments necessary conditions required escalating the severity

Natural Remedies For Treating Acanthosis Nigricans

By incorporating natural remedies along with medical intervention, you may get faster results while avoiding possible health risks associated with strong chemicals found in commercial products.[] So question remains:[ Do Natural Remedies work?] If cosmetic surgeons suggest them too how bad could they be right?

Here are few suggestions:

Use Alpha-Hydroxy Acid Lotions

Alpha-hydroxy acid lotions can help exfoliate the dead skin cells that are responsible for discoloration on the affected area of skin. This acid doesn’t bleach or lighten any dark patches instead it hastens up growth cycle by shedding old pigmented layers by forming new, lighter skin.

Adapting A Regular Cleansing Routine

As mentioned earlier if either a hormonal imbalance or obesity is tied to your AN, adding regular deep cleansing into your daily routine can significantly aid in improvement of AN.Once in a while facial steam sessions will cleanse out impurities clogging those pores resulting drying & lightening effect :- happy glowy perks besides just treating AN!

Over-The-Counter Bleaching and Exfoliation Products

If you’re not keen on natural remedies and prefer over-the-counter options more then there are certain products available containing bleaching agents like hydroquinone . If used for extended periods resulting side effects could include increased long-term aggravation with higher sensitivity to UV rays.[] Retinoids have also been found quite effective well albeit with documentation suggesting slower recovery speed than expected

Topical Prescriptions For Treating Acanthosis Nigricans

Hydroxychloroquine sulfate: Possessing anti-inflammatory properties this medicated option reduces insulin resistant which has direct correlation with reducing development at earliest stage[].

Topical retinoid creams: Often given as treatment protocols due to high Vitamin-A concentration speeding cellular regeneration naturally.NOTE:[These require prescription from dermatologist]

At times Laser Treatment may be advised

Laser therapy–This option appeals mostly cosmetic but using lasers they help removing the darker areas through abrasion enhancing collagen pumping up even replacing negative pigment production here interestingly .

The above-mentioned solutions i.e weight loss regimens minimizing sugar-based food along switching lifestyle habits all provide ways for getting rid of acanthosis nigricans.While some natural remedies might seem promising in reducing melanin pathologies a precautionary word is to firstly contact dermatologist before trying any self-applied methods including application of products with harsher ingredients.

As always, it’s important to remember that treating AN takes time and patience. Nonetheless by incorporating these easy lifestyle changes combined with prescribed medications, one can effectively work towards removing discoloration from affected areas easing anxieties& re-gaining overall skin health.

Happy healthy journey!

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