Concerns · Body
Dark spots on the body: underarms, groin, hands and décolletage
The most common dark spots on the body are darkening of the underarms, groin and inner thighs, caused by friction, hair removal and inflammation, and sun spots on the hands, arms, décolletage and back. Some dark patches in skin folds may be linked to metabolic changes, such as insulin resistance. Treatment combines control of the cause, lightening creams and procedures such as laser and peels. At Yamagata Dermatologia, in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, the cause is identified by a dermatologist at the appointment.
Why it happens
Dark spots on the body have different causes depending on the area:
- Underarms, groin and inner thighs: friction, hair removal, folliculitis and irritation from products stimulate pigment production. Velvety patches in these folds and on the neck (acanthosis nigricans) may be linked to insulin resistance.
- Hands, arms, décolletage and back: sun spots, caused by accumulated sun exposure.
- Any area: post-inflammatory marks, after bites, burns or skin diseases.
How the evaluation is done
The dermatologist examines the spots, with dermoscopy when necessary, identifies the likely cause and, if a metabolic change is suspected, orders tests.
Recommended treatments
- Acroma® laserDarkening of the underarms and groin, and sun spots.
- Intense pulsed lightSun spots on the hands, arms, décolletage and back.
- Chemical peelLightening and evening out of tone in darkened areas.
- Laser hair removalReduces folliculitis and darkening caused by hair removal.
Combined treatments
Controlling the cause, such as changing the hair removal method or treating insulin resistance, is combined with lightening creams and procedures, which helps maintain the lightening.
All procedures are recommended and performed after an individual medical evaluation. Results vary from person to person.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Why do underarms darken?
Underarm darkening is usually linked to friction, shaving or waxing, irritating deodorants and inflammation of the follicles. In some cases, it is associated with metabolic changes, which should be investigated.
Can dark patches on the neck and skin folds be a sign of disease?
Dark, velvety patches on the neck, underarms and groin (acanthosis nigricans) may be associated with insulin resistance and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Are the spots on my hands age spots?
Brownish spots on the hands are usually caused by sun accumulated over the years. Spots that change in appearance should be evaluated with dermoscopy.
What can I do at home?
Use sunscreen on exposed areas, avoid friction and harsh hair removal, and use the lightening creams recommended by the dermatologist.
Team
Medical team
See also