4 Causes of Dark Underarms

Okay, the weather is nice and you want to wear that cute dress or top, but you haven't because you're embarrassed about your dark underarms. You're not alone. I actually see this a lot, so let's talk about what might be causing your problem.

Cause #1: Shaving and Hair Removal Creams.

Hair removal creams and shaving are two major factors in causing the darkening of the underarms.

You've probably already noticed that the hair under your arms tends to be coarser and darker than the hair on the rest of your body. That's because underarm stubble can be visible under the surface of the skin, especially if you're prone to nasty ingrown hairs. If this is the case, waxing can help because unlike creams and shaving, waxing removes the hairs from the root, leaving no stubble behind.  

Cause #2: Antiperspirant and deodorant usage.

Now, let's talk deodorant. Please, keep wearing it, but you should know that those scented deodorants and perfume products contain alcohol. Not good, ladies. Excessive use can lead to discoloration and darkening of your armpit. If you must use them, make it a habit to wash your armpits before bed. If possible use an alcohol- free deodorant. Try Ban Anti-perspirant/deodorant - Clinical Defense Roll. But you should know that anti-perspirants are even harder to remove from your skin.

Cause #3: Buildup of dead skin cells.

Exfoliate, ladies! I promise, it's great for the skin. Some deodorants are thick. Exfoliating your armpits on a regular basis will help to remove the dead skin cells which cause your skin to look dark. If you never exfoliate your underarms, after a while, leftover deodorant, sweat and other impurities accumulate there.  Exfoliate every other day when you shower.

Cause #4: A medical condition called Acanthosis Nigricans.

Genetics could also play a role. Acanthosis nigricans, which can be hereditary, is a condition that causes  dark patches of thick skin on the neck, thighs and underarms. It's often associated with obesity and elevated insulin resistance or other hormonal imbalances. Elevated insulin levels can overstimulate skin cells, leading to thickening and darkening of the skin in certain areas of the body. If you think this might be the case, I strongly recommend a visit to your primary doctor to see whether you are diabetic. If this is the case, the dark patches may eventually fade when the underlying hormonal disorder is treated.

What To Do About It:

Lemon juice is definitely one of the the most effective natural remedies for dark underarms. After showering, apply lemon juice under your arms, and leave it there for twenty to thirty minutes. Lemon juice can dry out your skin, so you will need to moisturize afterwards with vitamin E oil or your favorite lotion.

Kojic Acid is a great skin-brightening agent naturally derived from an array of organic materials. It is believed to be a healthier alternative to Hydroquinone, a harsh bleaching agent. Check with your doctor or pay a visit to a spa for assistance in choosing a cream.

Topical creams containing lactic acid or glycolic acid also help to exfoliate the dark patches, but remember, the underarms can be very sensitive, so be sure to use these products sparingly and stop if you experience burning, itching, redness or irritation.

Dermabrasion and laser therapy can reduce the thickness of areas affected by acanthosis nigricans and improve the appearance of dark underarms. These procedures remove the top layer of skin to allow lighter skin that is closer in texture to the surrounding skin to surface. Multiple treatments are usually necessary to fade the discoloration.

 

Hope this helps