skin darkening in underarms

Hi,

I am concerned about the skin darkening in my underarms (arm pit), as well as behind my neck. a thin layer of matter (dont know if it is skin) could be peeled off from those areas if scratched. would this be a serious issue?

Please advice.

Regards

layman245

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
What you are having is hyperpigmentation skin. This darkening occurs when an excess of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color, forms deposits in the skin.

Treatment involves hydroquinone, azelaic acid, corticosteroids, tretinoin cream and laser treatment. Please discuss these options with your dermatologist before using them.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[layman245]

Thank you very much Doc. Im sure that this tip would help me a lot in moving further with necessary treatment.

Thanks again

Layman245

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Use hydroquinone only after a doctor’s prescription as it is not safe to use this drug on your own. Topical treatments with acids and chemical peels can be effective but can take a while for the skin to totally revert to its normal color.  Microdermabrasion can also be done, but this might require several sessions.  Skin resurfacing using lasers is also an option.  

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.