Common Skin Manifestations Related to Obesity

Obesity, with a body mass index (BMI) over 30 kg/m2, is a growing health concern worldwide, manifesting from early childhood to midlife and stemming from diverse causes including genetics, endocrine disorders, and psychosocial factors. This complex condition not only leads to metabolic issues like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus but also precipitates a range of dermatological changes. These skin manifestations include cellulite, acanthosis nigricans, and skin tags linked to insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, striae from skin overextension, and complications arising from peripheral vascular disease, such as stasis pigmentation and lymphedema. Additionally, the relationship between obesity and skin issues extends to changes in skin barrier function, sebaceous and sweat gland activity, and an increase in the thickness of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, leading to conditions such as keratosis pilaris and plantar hyperkeratosis. These comprehensive findings underscore the intricate connection between obesity and skin health, highlighting the need for holistic approaches in treatment and management.