#dark #spots #reveal #health
Have you ever wondered what those dark, velvety spots on your skin could mean? This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, is more than just a cosmetic issue. It’s actually a real alarm signal that your body sends to alert you of a deep hormonal imbalance. In a recent video, Dr. Dray, a renowned dermatologist, shed light on the link between acanthosis nigricans and high levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
When your skin speaks, listen to it!
According to information shared in the video transcript, acanthosis nigricans manifests as a distinctive thickening and darkening of the skin, often in body folds like the neck, armpits, elbows, and knees. The skin takes on a velvety appearance and a color ranging from brown to dark gray. But do you know what is behind these skin changes?
In fact, acanthosis nigricans is the result of a hyperproliferation of keratinocytes, the cells that make up the surface layer of the skin, the epidermis. This abnormal cell growth is triggered by hormonal factors, in particular insulin and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1).
When the levels of these hormones are too high, they stimulate the multiplication of keratinocytes, giving this thickened and hyperpigmented appearance to the skin.
Cortisol, the conductor of insulin resistance
But what is the link with cortisol, this famous stress hormone? As Dr. Dray explains, chronic excess cortisol can disrupt the body’s delicate insulin balance. Cortisol has the effect of decreasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin, a phenomenon called insulin resistance. When cells become less responsive to insulin, it builds up in the blood, leading to a cascade of hormonal imbalances.
It is this insulin resistance which is at the origin of acanthosis nigricans. High levels of circulating insulin stimulate the growth of keratinocytes, while increasing pigment production by melanocytes.
The result: thickened, dark skin, often in fold areas where insulin and IGF-1 concentrate.
When acanthosis nigricans hides a more serious illness
If acanthosis nigricans is often associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, it can sometimes be a sign of a rarer but serious disease: Cushing’s syndrome. This disease, caused by excess cortisol in the body, manifests itself with a wide range of symptoms, including acanthosis nigricans.
In this case, the dark, velvety spots may be accompanied by other signs like central weight gain, moon face, thin skin and purple stretch marks.
In rare cases, acanthosis nigricans may also be a sign of certain cancers, particularly insulin- or IGF-1-secreting tumors. This is why it is crucial not to ignore this message from your skin, and to consult a doctor if you notice the appearance or worsening of acanthosis nigricans.
Decoding your skin’s message for better health
Fortunately, in most cases, acanthosis nigricans can be improved by treating its underlying cause.
If insulin resistance is the cause, changes in diet and physical activity can make a big difference. Eating a diet low in refined sugars and saturated fats, while engaging in regular physical activity, can help restore insulin sensitivity and reduce cortisol levels.
In some cases, medications like metformin may be prescribed to help manage insulin resistance.
If Cushing’s syndrome is diagnosed, specific treatment to reduce cortisol levels will be necessary. This is why it is so important to work closely with your doctor or dermatologist if you are concerned with acanthosis nigricans.
