Self-Care Guidelines
Because most people who develop acanthosis nigricans are overweight, their skin lesions can improve dramatically and even resolve with weight loss. Other underlying medical conditions should be treated as well.
Other treatments that might help:
- Weight loss by changing dietary and exercise habits
- Over-the-counter preparations containing alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid
- Over-the-counter lotions containing the beta hydroxy acid salicylic acid
- Over-the-counter creams containing urea
- Over-the-counter cortisone cream (if the areas are itchy)
When to Seek Medical Care
If you notice thickening and darkening of the skin folds, it is probably a good idea to see your primary care provider. If the acanthosis nigricans is due to obesity, then you can have medical assistance developing healthy strategies to attain your weight goals.
The sudden development of widespread acanthosis nigricans (involving the skin folds as well as the palms of the hands, the lips, and other, less typical areas) should prompt immediate medical attention. The doctor may be able to diagnose and treat a more serious underlying medical condition that is causing the acanthosis nigricans.
Signs and Symptoms
