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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #15426
45 days ago
110

black spots on neck - #15426

Aditya

I am really worried about these black spots on my neck that I noticed a few weeks ago. At first, I thought it was just some dirt or something, but then I realized they weren't coming off. They kinda look like tiny little moles or something, and they’re just sort of there! I’ve tried to ignore them, but they seem to get a bit darker or maybe more in number? Like, I even pointed them out to my friend, and she freaked out, saying I should see a doctor. I’m not sure if I should just chill or if this is a sign of a bigger problem. Has anyone else dealt with black spots on neck? I’m also kinda worried because I’ve had some skin issues in the past, like eczema, which just makes me think the worst. What really gets me is, would these black spots on neck be related to something serious, or is it just a harmless skin thing? I’m hoping it’s nothing, but I keep looking in the mirror and stressing about these black spots on neck. Should I just book a dermatologist appointment, or is there something I can try first? Maybe some cream? Thanks for any advice!

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Doctors’ responses

Noticing black spots on your neck can definitely catch you off guard, especially if they seem to appear out of nowhere or change over time. These could be benign conditions, but it’s understandable you’re concerned about whether they’re more serious. One possibility is that these spots are actually seborrheic keratoses, which are common non-cancerous skin growths that can appear as we age. They often look like raised, scaly patches or moles and are typically harmless, although they can sometimes appear suddenly or in clusters. Another possibility is a condition known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially since you mentioned past skin issues like eczema. This can cause dark spots on areas where you’ve had inflammation or irritation before. However, without seeing them, it’s hard to diagnose definitively, and they’ve been changing, so it could be useful to have them checked out. Also, there are rare but serious conditions like acanthosis nigricans, which is linked to insulin resistance or hormonal issues manifesting as darkened skin patches, often in the neck folds. Since these spots are getting darker or more numerous over time, it would be prudent to book an appointment with a dermatologist to get a proper evaluation. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what these spots are via a physical examination and possibly a biopsy if necessary. Over-the-counter creams like hydroquinone or retinoids might help hyperpigmentation, but it’s crucial to ensure an accurate diagnosis first. Meanwhile, maintaining good skin hygiene, using sunscreen, and avoiding scratching or picking at the spots can help prevent further skin irritation.

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