Pseudo acanthosis nigricans
Pseudo Acanthosis Nigricans (PseudoAN) is a skin condition that causes one or more areas of skin to darken and thicken. Often the skin with PseudoAN feels like velvet.
People who get this skin condition sometimes mistakenly believe that a dye or something else they touched has discolored their skin. They try scrubbing away the discoloration. Vigorous scrubbing will not get rid of PseudoAN but it can definitely damage skin and turn it further darker.
It is a warning sign of a health problem that requires medical attention. For this reason, it is important to see a dermatologist if you notice an area of darker, thicker skin.
