The black neck is a condition in which the skin of the neck is much more darkened than the surrounding area. Therefore, it is also known as the dark neck. The colour difference may result in self-consciousness and a desire to get rid of the black neck. There are some DIY ways to get rid of dark necks in 20 minutes. 

In most cases, it is not a matter of concern and does not spread by contact from one person to another.

In some cases, the skin colour changes can be a symptom of some underlying condition. Hence, do not ignore it and consult a doctor to understand the cause and any treatment if needed. Read to know more about the symptoms, causes and how to get rid of black neck:

Symptoms of black neck

The primary sign of a black neck is the blackening of the neck. However, it may also extend to other body parts, such as the armpits.

Here are some more symptoms of a dark neck:

• Thickening of skin
• Itchiness
• Smooth skin

If the darkening has appeared all of a sudden, reach out to a doctor as it may be a symptom of another condition. So consult with the experts at Ujala Cygnus Hospital to get rid of a dark neck in under 20 minutes.

Causes of dark neck

Here are the leading causes of a dark neck:

• Acanthosis nigricans

It is a condition in which the skin gets a smooth texture, thickens and turns dark. It can occur in the neck, armpit or any region with folds in the skin. It is common in men, women and children and people with darker skin tones have higher chances of getting this.

Acanthosis nigricans are neither harmful nor contagious. It is due to higher levels of insulin in diabetic or prediabetic patients. Children suffering from dark necks due to People with Acanthosis Nigricans have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes. So it would be best to find a suitable way to get rid of the black neck. 

Acanthosis nigricans can be a symptom of:

1. Cushing’s disease
2. Cancer
3. Hormonal imbalance
4. Obesity 

It may also be due to medications including niacin, prednisone and birth control medications. Thus, you need to work on these causes to get rid of the dark neck fast.

• Dermatitis neglecta

It is due to improper hygiene and care of the skin. When the skin is not washed correctly, sebum, dust, sweat, and bacteria grow in the area. It is also known as unwashed dermatosis. So start maintaining a body care routine to get rid of the dark neck fast.

You can treat it by cleaning the area regularly with soap and water or alcohol and maintaining personal hygiene. You can try to get rid of the dark neck with baking soda. Some people also suggest to get rid of the dark neck with lemon regularly. The baking soda wash helps in the removal of dirt from within. The vitamin C in lemon brightens the skin and reduces hyperpigmentation; thus, it is a trusted way to get rid of a dark neck with lemon.

• Drug influenced hyperpigmentation 

You should check your medication to see if they are the cause of your dark neck. Here are some:

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
2. Phenytoin
3. Antimalarial 
4. Amiodarone
5. Antipsychotic drugs
6. Tetracyclines

The darkening can occur anywhere in the body. The colour restores to normal once the medicine is stopped. If it becomes permanent, the only way to get rid of neck darkness is laser treatment.

How to diagnose a dark neck?

The black neck is not a disease itself but can be a symptom of other conditions. Thus, visit a doctor once you notice any darkness in your neck.

AN can be confirmed by skin touch, but other tests, including diabetes, X-ray and blood tests, would be required for overall condition assessment.

Treatment to clean dark neck 

The fastest way to reduce the condition is by treating the root cause. It generally subsides once the disease is diagnosed and under control. Moreover, if it is due to drug-induced hyperpigmentation, the discontinuity of that medication improves the darkness. AN is usually caused by insulin resistance which can be managed by weight loss.

Here are some suggested treatment ways  to reduce neck darkness:

1. Exfoliation using baking soda: You can get rid of dark necks with baking soda.

2. Using chemical actives like salicylic acid, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids along with oral medications

3. Chemical peels

4. Laser therapy treatments 

So what’s the takeaway, and can you clean the dark neck? Dark neck is not a severe medical condition on its own. Yet it can be a symptom of some other severe disease or condition. Therefore, it is advisable not to ignore it and confirm with the doctor. They would examine it and provide proper treatment to the condition or help clean your dark neck and restore the skin to normal. So if you want a treatment to clean the dark neck, get in touch with the skincare experts at Ujala Cygnus Hospital. We have the facilities and staff to provide you with excellent ways to reduce blackness on the neck.