I've been living near Darjeeling, and just recently, I returned from a short trip to my hometown Nashik. Since coming back, I've noticed these dark patches around my waist and underarms. What could be causing this?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ranjith Darla

General Practitioner

MBBS
3+ Yrs

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It sounds like you may be experiencing a condition called acanthosis nigricans, which is characterized by dark, velvety patches of skin. This can be caused by various factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, hormonal disorders, or certain medications. To help improve this condition, you can try using a topical cream containing hydroquinone, retinoids, or azelaic acid to lighten the dark patches. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can also be beneficial. I recommend using a cream like Melalite Forte cream twice daily on the affected areas for 8-12 weeks. Make sure to apply a thin layer and avoid sun exposure on the treated areas. If the dark patches persist or worsen, it is best to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and management.

Dr. Ranjith Suggests...

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Answered 04/07/2025

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I'm thinking about getting keloid injections and I'm a bit worried. Can you tell me if these injections have any side effects? Also, what if I have a lot of keloids? Does that change anything? I'm just trying to figure out what to expect.

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I've been struggling with pimples on my face and decided to visit the doctor, who recommended the Melacare cream. I started using it, but now I'm dealing with some side effects like redness, itching, and even skin lightening. The tricky part is if I stop applying it, my face breaks out in pimples almost immediately. I'm really stuck on what to do next. Could you suggest any alternative remedies or a way to stop using this cream without making my skin issues worse?

1. Hormonal imbalance (estrogen and testosterone)

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