Underarm Whitening is actually quite simple once you identify the underlying cause. There are several steps you can incorporate into your skincare routine to address this concern.
WHAT CAUSES DARK UNDERARMS
There are various reasons like skin infections, hyperpigmentation and the like, but the most common reasons are,
- Deodorants
- Shaving the armpit
- Obesity
- Hormonal problems(Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome are to name a few)
- Friction from tight clothes
Resolving any health problems and quitting a couple of bad habits will greatly help reduce the pigmentation.
DO YOU HAVE DARK SKIN IN YOUR NECK/GROIN AREA?
If your answer is YES, you have hormone related skin discolouration.
In simple words, Acanthosis Nigricans is skin darkening(pigmentation disorder) often seen in those with diabetes(Insulin resistance) or pre-diabetes although that is not always the case. If you have a family history of diabetes, better get it checked just to be on the safe side.
📌 TIPS
After identifying the causes of dark underarms, let’s take a look at the preventive measures you can take. Later on, I’ll share two effective methods to treat underarm darkness. Here are the 4 most effective and proven tips to prevent underarm darkness.
EXFOLIATE REGULARLY
Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells from your underarms. This helps to prevent the build up of dirt and oils that can cause darkness. Skip this if you are already using AHA/BHA’s.
STOP SHAVING
There are better alternatives to shaving like,
- Natural honey or sugar based wax,
- An epilator
- Laser treatment to permanently remove unwanted hair.
Shaving may bruise your skin and cause skin irritations. Overtime, this may encourage excessive production of melanin and thus, hyperpigmentation. If you are used to shaving, stopping it in itself may solve 80% of the problem.
STOP USING DEAODORANTS/ANTIPERSPIRANTS💢
Stop using deodorants and antiperspirants with ingredients like, aluminium, alcohol, fragrance and controversial preservatives in them. Long term use of these chemicals certainly irritate the skin thereby causing hyperpigmentation and thicker skin.
So, switch to AHA/BHA based products and natural deodorants to solve this.
PRACTICE GOOD HYGIENE
Maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent the build up of sweat and bacteria that can cause underarm darkening. Clean your underarms regularly and make sure to dry them thoroughly after showering.
📌 DARK UNDERARM TREATMENT
It’s important to note that these Underarm Whitening treatments may take some time to show results, and it’s important to use them consistently for best results. If you experience any irritation or allergic reaction, stop using the treatment immediately. It is important to choose safe and mild products and use them according to the instructions.
CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION
The first step to underarm whitening is to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, incorporating AHA (glycolic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), or lactic acid-based products into your skincare routine is recommended. In addition to their exfoliating properties, these products can serve as an alternative to deodorants by preventing bacterial growth and body odour. They can also help prevent ingrown hair growth, which is a great added benefit.
AHA/BHA products are widely available in various forms, including cleansers, toners, peels, medicated pads, and serums. Effective options for treating dark underarms include – The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toning Solution, The Minimalist Glycolic Acid Toner, and Glyco-6 cream. Medicated acne pads or cleansing/toner pads, such as STRIDEX pads containing 2% salicylic acid or COSRX pads, can also be used to treat underarm darkness.
UNDERARM LIGHTENING CREAM/SERUM
After completing the AHA/BHA step, the next recommended step is to apply an Alpha Arbutin/Vitamin C serum to block melanin pigment and promote skin lightening. For safe and mild skin lightening, choose products that contain ingredients such as Vitamin C, Azelaic acid, Niacinamide, Tranexamic acid, Retinol, Glycolic acid, or Mandelic acid.
It’s important to give this two-step treatment a few weeks to work effectively.
HOW TO REMOVE DARK UNDERARMS NATURALLY
Patch test is advised for all the treatments mentioned here. Skincare is subjective and as always what works for me may not really be the best choice for you. These are the what I think would work as they help exfoliate and lighten the underarms. Somehow this is my most favourite home remedy.
Here is how we do it.
- Toothpaste – 2 Teaspoon
- Coarse ground coffee powder- 1 Teaspoon
- Honey – 1/2 Teaspoon
- Aloe vera gel – 1 Teaspoon(optional)
- Lemon Juice or ACV – To make a paste
Filter coffee or coarse ground coffee works best but i think instant coffee may work too but I have yet to try that. Massage gently with minimal pressure to avoid bruising and irritating your skin. Massage for 2 minutes and leave the pack on for 20 minutes. Use this mask 3-4 times a week. In case you find lemon juice too strong, limit the usage to 1-2 times a week.
The next home remedy works only on underarm darkness caused by deodorants.🤨
- Baking Soda – 1 Teaspoon
- Turmeric – a pinch
- Lemon juice/ACV – Enough to make a paste
Mix all these ingredients together and once it forms a smooth paste, apply it to your armpits. Massage gently for 1-2 minutes. Leave the paste on for 20 minutes. Rinse off. If you have sensitive skin, You can use rose water instead of lemon juice. You can use this treatment mask 2-3 times a week for best results. It may take up to a few weeks to show visible changes in your dark underarms
SUMMARY
Stop using deodorants and switch to natural alternatives.
Stop shaving and try waxing instead.
Exfoliate using either physical exfoliants(Sugar scrub, exfoliating gloves) or chemical exfoliants(AHA/BHA).
Follow up with a gentle skin lightening ingredient like Vitamin C, Alpha arbutin and so on.( Mentioned above).
Get yourself checked if you have hereditary/hormone related problems like diabetes, hypothyroidism, PCOS.
