Dark Skin on Neck

One might have observed that the skin tone of their neck is quite different from the rest of the body. Sometimes, the skin on the neck has a darker hue and is also patchy. This story provides some information on the same.

The skin on one's neck may sometimes get a darker hue as compared to the other parts of the body. One may also observe dark skin patches on the neck that looks like a layer of dust.

From patches to circular rings, the neck gets a dull dirty look. If it is a layer of dirt, then one should raise their cleanliness standards or else this look might be embarrassing. The skin on the neck also gets a darker tone, if it is exposed to sun. Dry dark skin on the neck with itching sensation can be due to some other reasons apart from tanning.

Here are a few reasons behind this condition. Dermatologists and doctors have diagnosed a few possible causes that might cause dark skin patches on the neck or dark skin discoloration. Hormonal changes, pigmentation, liver or intestinal disorders, skin infections, etc., are some causes of this condition.

This is a medical terminology characterized by dark, thick, and velvety skin folds and creases on the neck. This condition is accompanied by other disorders inside the body: increase in insulin level, like type 2 diabetes or being overweight. The extra insulin triggers the activity of skin cells that leads to change in skin tone over the neck.

Hormone imbalance sometimes increases secretion of the pigment melanin. This pigment is responsible for darkening the skin tone. Hyperpigmentation is also observed and dark patches appear over the neck. This can also spread to the other parts of the body if one does not undergo medication as early as possible. Increase in melanin is also observed in pregnant women and the people affected by diabetes.

Eczema is also one of the possible reasons behind this condition. Irritation and itching is associated with it. Sometimes it becomes severe and the skin on the neck gets a darker hue. Patches and redness is also associated with it.

Over exposure to harmful UV rays of sun affects the skin tone. If the neck is exposed to sun, it tans that particular area. Often rings also form around the neck due to sun burn.

Dark skin on the neck can be treated at home, if it is caused due to sunburn. Herbal remedies are available to reduce the tan. Always apply a good sunscreen on the exposed areas before going out in the sun. Fungal infection is often treated with antifungal lotions like Lamisil.

Try applying cortisone creams available over-the-counter, if one is affected by eczema. Keep the skin moisturized and use fragrance-free ointments for itching. People who are affected by Acanthosis nigricans, are often prescribed Retin-A or tretinoin cream for topical application to lighten the skin tone.

If one experiences hormonal imbalance, let the doctors diagnose the skin conditions and suggest the necessary treatments.

Dark skin on the neck is not always a cause of concern. One should keep their neck zone clean and moisturized to avoid accumulation of dirt. If one observes rings, flakes or feel itching, irritation, and redness, visit the dermatologist for the correct skin care regimen.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.