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What Causes Black Velvety Pigmentation Over The Skin Of Underarms?

Posted on Wed, 6 May 2015

Question: Hi Doc,

I have a problem of dark velvety skin underarms and around neck. I want to get rid of this problem , please suggest.

regards,
XXXXX

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (7 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Apply a topical lightening agent

Detailed Answer:
Hi

I understand your concern regarding your skin problem and I hope I am able to help you in the same.
Black velvety pigmentation over the skin folds like neck and axilla can occur in slightly over weight people and this condition is called acanthosis nigricans. The pigmentation in this case tends to increase as the weight increases.
Apply a topical skin lightening agent like kojic acid cream over the affected area twice daily .
Take oral vitamin c supplements once daily along.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Avoid rubbing the affected area.

Hope it helps

Dr XXXXXXX Paul

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta

Follow up: Dr. Geetika Paul (40 minutes later)

Thanks doctor.

I am 5'.2" and 57Kgs.... Is it overweight?Do I have to ask for the Kojic acid cream at the medical shop or is there a specific name.

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (44 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Start treatment

Detailed Answer:
Hi again

Your weight seems to be fine for your height,however some people's skin is very sensitive to the mildest weight increase.
You can ask for Kojivit which has kojic acid and vitamin c combination cream at a pharmacy. However they might be available under different names too. Just make sure they have these two contents. As it is a prescription drug, you will require a physician's prescription.
Regards,

Dr XXXXXXX Paul

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta

Follow up: Dr. Geetika Paul (2 hours later)

Thanks Doc.

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Best of health

Detailed Answer:
You are most welcome

Wishing you speedy recovery

Dr XXXXXXX Paul

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta

Follow up: Dr. Geetika Paul (5 days later)

Hello Doc,

I went to the dermatologist as i didnt get Kojivit without prescription. She prescribed me Venusia along with Kojivit. Is it ok to apply both ? and is it gonna help my problem?

Please advice me how and when to use this.

regards,
XXXXX

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Take treatment

Detailed Answer:
Hi again

Yes you can use both of these medicines.
Apply kojivit first,leave it over the area for half an hour to an hour and then apply venusia over it twice daily.
Follow this regimen daily for atleast two to three months to see a noticeable improvement.

Dr Geetika Paul

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta

Follow up: Dr. Geetika Paul (12 days later)

Hello Doctor,

Hope you are doing fine.

As prescribed by you I started using both the medicines (kojivit & Venusia). One tube of Kojivit is about to get over but i am at all not noticing any change in colour or that thick velvety skin. After application of these medicines i am noticing few warts on my neck.

Please help, as this is very embracing.

Regards,
XXXXX

Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Discuss the need for keratolytic agents

Detailed Answer:
hi

I would like to talk you that your skin problem is a chronic one and will take some time for complete healing .
You will have to apply medicines for a very long time .
Since the skin is thick and velvety in the affected area,you can discuss the option of adding keratolytic agents to your treatment with your treating doctor.

Dr Geetika Paul

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E