Dear msbadmonke,

The areola is the area surrounding the nipples of women and men. Like nipples, areolas come in a whole range of colors, from light pink to bluish black. The color of a person's areolas and nipples usually corresponds to her or his skin color. As breasts develop, the nipples and areola also get darker.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.