For many people, dark armpits can be embarrassing. Fortunately, in most cases, they are not a sign of a disturbing condition, although this is not always the case.
What causes dark armpits?
- deodorants or antiperspirants (chemical irritants)
- shaving
- accumulation of dead skin cells (lack of exfoliation)
- smoker's melanosis (hyperpigmentation caused by smoking)
- hyperpigmentation (increase in melanin)
- acanthosis a nigricans (often of diabetes, overweight, or abnormal hormone levels)
- erythrasma (bacterial infection)
- melasma (dark spots on the skin)
- Addison's disease (damaged adrenal glands)
If you are concerned about the fact that the skin of the armpits is darker than the rest, discuss it with your doctor. If the dark color is not the result of any troublesome condition, consider some alternatives to whiten them.
Some valuable tips
- change the deodorant / antiperspirant brand
- do not wax with a razor
- use the body scrub even in the armpit area, gently, two to three times a week
- wear loose clothing
Home treatments
Potatoes: Grate a potato, squeeze the juice from the potatoes and place the juice under the wings. After 10 minutes, clean the armpits with fresh water. You can also rub two potato slices on the skin of the armpits.
Cucumber: Cut thick slices of cucumber and rub the dark areas of the armpits. After 10 minutes, rinse armpits with cool water.
Lemon: Cut thick lemon slices and rub into armpits. After 10 minutes, rinse, pat dry and apply moisturizer.
Turmeric: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice with Indie saffron to make a paste. Place the paste evenly on the armpits. After 30 minutes, rinse.
Coconut oil: Massage a few drops of coconut oil on the armpits. After 15 minutes, rinse with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Repeat these steps two to three times a day.
Medical and aesthetic treatments
- creams or lotions containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, corticosteroids, azelaic acid or kojic acid
- laser therapy for pigment removal
- chemical peels with alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids
- dermabrasion or microdermabrasion for complete cleansing of the skin
Sources: Healthline, Byrdie
