Self-Care Guidelines
Because most people who develop acanthosis nigricans are overweight, their skin lesions can improve dramatically and even go away when they lose weight. Other medical conditions that cause these lesions should be treated as well.
Other treatments are:
- Lose weight, changing diet and exercise habits
- Apply over-the-counter preparations containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid
- Apply over-the-counter lotions containing the beta-hydroxy acid salicylic acid
- Apply over-the-counter creams containing urea
- Apply over-the-counter cortisone cream (if the areas are itchy)
When to Seek Medical Care
See your child's primary doctor if the child develops thickening and darkening of the skin folds. If the acanthosis nigricans is due to obesity, the doctor can help you find healthy ways for your child to lose weight.
See the doctor immediately if your child suddenly develops widespread acanthosis nigricans (affecting the skin folds as well as the palms of the hands, the lips, and other areas). The doctor may be able to diagnose and treat a more serious medical condition that is causing the acanthosis nigricans.
Signs and Symptoms
