53 citations,
December 2015 in “JAMA Dermatology” Women with PCOS often have more body hair, acne, and skin darkening, and these signs are linked to metabolic issues like insulin resistance and high cholesterol.
30 citations,
September 2017 in “Clinics in Dermatology” Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition that may indicate a higher risk for insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, and more research is needed to understand and treat it.
43 citations,
May 1988 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Patients with acanthosis nigricans often have insulin resistance and signs of increased male hormones, but treatment targeting these male hormones is generally ineffective.
The conclusion is that there's a link between high testosterone levels, insulin resistance, and certain skin conditions, regardless of obesity.
5 citations,
June 2018 in “Journal of Diabetes, Metabolic Disorders & Control” Women with PCOS may have higher bad cholesterol and are at risk for blood sugar issues; lifestyle changes are recommended.