Typically, patches of a darker and velvety texture in many people, especially around the neck, armpit, or thigh area, are quite misleading and alarming. This gets worse where the skin patches do not easily disappear even after trying different skincare practices. Mostly, many people take it for dirt and a resultant effect of skin pigmentation. On a contrary and factual basis, it may be Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans.
At Estique Clinic, we educate our patients on actual causative factors for Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans because most people don't understand the condition. And then, we implement safe and medically supervised treatments for correction rather than concealment.
Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans, under the direction of Dr. Neha Sharma, is medically and skin-therapeutically managed at Estique Clinic.
What Is Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans?
Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans is a condition that causes parts of the body to become thickened, velvety, darkened skin. This occurs most commonly in armpits, neck, groin, elbows, knees, among others. Though it resembles a condition known as Acanthosis Nigricans, it is differentiated by the factor that in most cases, the former is related to a medical condition but to external causes.
It is often associated with:
Obesity or rapid weight gain
Insulin resistance without diabetes
Friction in skin folds
Certain medications or hormonal changes
The condition is not harmful in itself, but it is a crucial warning symptom that the skin barrier and metabolism are under duress.
How Does Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans Manifest?
Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans appears slowly and usually presents first as what resembles “dirty” skin when the skin actually is clean.
How It Typically Looks:
Dark brown or greyish-black markings
The skin where it occurs become thickened
Poorly defines skin borders
Mild roughness or dryness
There will be no pain, only cosmetic discomfort.
Common areas affected are:
Back and sides of neck
Underarms
Inner thighs
Groin folds
Knuckles, elbows, knees
Signs and Symptoms To Watch For:
Blisters developing on half of body or more
Gradual skin darkness in flexural creases
The skin appears thickened or leathery
Irregular texture in comparison with the rest of the skin
Mild itching and dryness (in some cases)
Resistance to normal creams or home remedies
In contrast to infections, the onset of pseudoacanthosis will not be accompanied by the discharge of pus.
Causes of Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans
Knowing the cause is paramount because the management or treatment involves reversal and not just short-term fixing.
Commonly identified causes may include:
Excess weight or obesity
Insulin Resistance
High Sugar or Processed Foods Diets
Hormonal imbalance (PCOS, Thyroid Problems)
Friction generated by the rubbing of tight
Use of steroids or certain medications
At Estique Clinic, identifying these triggers is the first step toward effective treatment.
Who Is at Risk of Developing This Condition?
Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans is more commonly seen in:
Individuals with overweight or obesity
People with sedentary lifestyles
Women with PCOS or hormonal imbalance
Those with a family history of insulin resistance
Individuals with recurring friction in skin folds
Teenagers and young adults with rapid weight changes
It can affect both men and women and is increasingly seen in younger age groups.
Treatment Options at Estique Clinic
Treatment is always personalised, depending on the severity and underlying trigger.
Medical Skin Peels Help remove thickened skin layers and improve texture and pigmentation.
Laser & Heat Energy-Based Treatments Target pigmentation and skin thickening while improving skin renewal.
Topical Medical Therapy Prescription creams that regulate pigmentation and skin turnover.
Lifestyle & Metabolic Correction Guidance on weight management, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance.
Combination Therapy Most patients benefit from a mix of procedures and medical management for long-term results.
Benefits of Treating Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans
Visible lightening of dark patches
Smoother skin texture
Improved confidence and appearance
Reduced recurrence with proper care
Better overall skin health
Early detection of metabolic issues
Early treatment prevents the skin from becoming permanently dark and thickened.
Cost of Pseudoacanthosis Nigricans Treatment in Gurgaon
The cost depends on severity, area involved, and treatment combination.
Average Cost Range
₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per session
Factors That Affect Cost
Number of areas treated
Type of treatment (peels, lasers, combination)
Severity and thickness of pigmentation
Number of sessions required
Associated metabolic evaluation
During consultation, Dr. Neha Sharma provides a transparent treatment plan and cost estimate.
How to Take Care of Skin After Treatment?
Avoid friction and tight clothing
Maintain proper hygiene in folds
Use prescribed creams regularly
Apply sunscreen if exposed areas are treated
Follow dietary and lifestyle guidance
Maintain a healthy weight
Attend follow-up sessions
Consistency plays a major role in preventing recurrence.
FAQs
No, it is not harmful. Though it is a sign of imbalance in metabolism or lifestyle.
Yes, with appropriate treatment and modification of lifestyle changes, considerable improvement and control are possible.
It may be linked to insulin resistance, but it does not always mean diabetes.
Home remedies rarely help and may worsen irritation. Medical treatment is often the recommended procedure.
Most patients see improvement within 3–6 sessions, depending on severity.
Estique Clinic offers dermatologist-led diagnosis, advanced treatments, and personalised care under Dr. Neha Sharma.
DR NEHA SHARMA
Medical and Cosmetic Dermatologist and well renowned as the Best Dermatologist in Gurgaon, has formerly practised in prestigious Hospitals such as VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital (New Delhi) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS, New Delhi). She has done teo superspecializtions - Fellowship in LASERS and Dermatology from National Skin Centre , Singapore and Fellowship in Aesthetic Dermatology from Bangkok. She has a total experience of 14 years and has treated over 20000 patients.
