Your skin might be sending you an early diabetes warning—here’s what to look for

When dark, velvety patches start appearing around the neck, many people assume it’s just dirt that won’t wash off. But when scrubbing doesn’t help, it may be a sign that something else is going on. These skin changes can actually serve as an early warning system—one that could help prevent a serious health condition from developing.

These mysterious dark patches, known medically as acanthosis nigricans, are more common than you might think and could be your body's way of signaling that your blood sugar levels need attention.

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The hidden connection between your skin and blood sugar

Acanthosis nigricans affects 19.5% of adults in the United States, making it far more prevalent than most people realize.

What's particularly striking is that those with this skin condition are twice as likely to have type 2 diabetes compared to those without it—35.4% versus 17.6%.

Given that 38.4 million Americans of all ages have diabetes, with 90 to 95 percent having type 2, and an additional 8.7 million adults meet the criteria for diabetes but are unaware of it, recognizing these early warning signs becomes crucial for prevention and early intervention.

Also read: Is processed meat riskier than soda? Here’s what new research says about your diabetes risk

Understanding what's happening beneath the surface

The development of acanthosis nigricans isn't random—it's your body responding to internal changes that you might not yet feel.

Most people who have acanthosis nigricans have also become resistant to insulin, the hormone that helps your body process sugar from food.

When you consume too much sugar over time, your body produces more insulin to keep blood sugar levels stable.

This excess insulin doesn't just affect your internal organs—it also activates certain skin cells that have insulin receptors, leading to the characteristic dark, thickened patches.

Also read: Could your favorite side dish be increasing your diabetes risk? Here’s what new research says about potatoes

Who's most at risk?

While anyone can develop acanthosis nigricans, certain groups face higher risks.

People of Native American, African, Caribbean, or Hispanic descent are more susceptible to the condition.

Additionally, a study of adults with obesity found that of those who weighed double their ideal body weight, at least 50% showed signs of acanthosis nigricans.

Age also plays a role, as insulin resistance tends to increase over time, making it particularly important for older adults to be aware of these warning signs.

Acanthosis nigricans often appears as dark, velvety patches around the neck, armpits, or joints—subtle skin changes that can signal early insulin resistance. Image source: YouTube / Doctor O'Donovan.

Also read: The overlooked drink that can help you stay hydrated with diabetes, say dietitians

The silver lining—it’s often reversible

Here’s the encouraging news: acanthosis nigricans isn’t permanent.

If the underlying cause can be addressed, such as through weight loss interventions, then the acanthosis nigricans is expected to improve or fully resolve.

This means that lifestyle changes focused on improving insulin sensitivity can not only help prevent type 2 diabetes but also restore your skin to its normal appearance.

The key is addressing the root cause rather than just treating the skin symptoms.

Also read: Could this simple diet trick lower your blood pressure—even if you have diabetes?

Taking action—your next steps

If you notice dark, velvety patches on your skin, don’t panic, but don’t ignore them either.

The first step is scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation.

They may recommend blood tests to check your glucose and insulin levels.

Early detection is particularly valuable because prediabetes—the stage before type 2 diabetes—can often be reversed through lifestyle modifications.

This includes regular physical activity, reducing processed foods in your diet, managing stress levels, and achieving a healthy weight.

Dark, velvety patches under the arms—like those shown here—can be an early sign of changes in blood sugar or insulin levels. Image source: YouTube / Doctorly.

Also read: You’re probably not getting enough of this diabetes-fighting nutrient

Managing the condition and your health

Even if you do develop type 2 diabetes, it’s important to understand that the condition can often go into remission.

As diabetes experts explain, remission occurs when blood sugar levels fall below the diabetes range and stay there for at least three months without glucose-lowering medication.

While remission doesn’t mean the diabetes has permanently disappeared, it does mean that with proper lifestyle management, you can pause the progression and symptoms of the disease.

Also read: Urgent warning for some insulin pump users: What you need to know right now

A hopeful perspective on prevention

The discovery of acanthosis nigricans on your skin isn’t a cause for alarm—it’s actually an opportunity.

Unlike many health conditions that develop silently, your skin is giving you visible advance notice that changes are needed.

With proper medical guidance and commitment to healthier lifestyle choices, many people successfully reverse both the skin condition and the underlying insulin resistance that causes it.

The key is recognizing these early warning signs and taking proactive steps before more serious complications develop.

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Key Takeaways

• Dark, velvety skin patches—especially around the neck, armpits, or groin—can be an early warning sign of insulin resistance and prediabetes.
• Acanthosis nigricans affects nearly one in five adults in the United States and is twice as common among those with type 2 diabetes.
• The condition is often reversible through lifestyle changes such as weight loss, balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and proper medical monitoring.
• Recognizing these skin changes early allows seniors to take proactive steps that may prevent or even reverse the development of type 2 diabetes.

What skin changes have you noticed that turned out to be important health indicators? Share your experiences in the comments below—your story might help another reader recognize their own early warning signs.