How to get rid of dark armpits naturally | Medical Guide and Review

Dark armpits, why are my armpits dark all of a sudden?

Table of Contents

Why my armpits are getting dark?
How can I remove dark underarms?
Causes of dark underarms?
How can I get rid of dark underarms naturally?
How to get rid of dark underarms medically?

Why my armpits are getting dark?

Most common reason is PIH, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This occurs from skin irritation as a result of shaving, deodorant sprays etc.

How can I remove dark underarms?

Treatment can be classified as natural vs medical. Natural ways include use of exfoliants, lightening creams, whitening deodorants. Medical ways include use of lasers, IPL etc.

Causes of dark underarms?

Dark underarms can be caused by various factors, including genetics, skin pigmentation disorders like acanthosis nigricans (associated with diabetes), PCOS, allergic contact dermatitis, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, excessive sweating, irritation from shaving, friction from tight clothes, and certain ingredients in personal care products like deodorants and shaving creams.

How to identify the cause?

It’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a doctor because dark underarms can sometimes be an early symptom of underlying health conditions like diabetes or PCOS. By identifying the underlying cause, appropriate treatments can be initiated.

How can I get rid of dark underarms naturally?

To help lighten dark underarms at home, you can consider the following tips:

Use fewer products: Reduce the number of products you apply to the underarm area to see if irritation is a contributing factor. Opt for products marketed for sensitive skin that are fragrance-free, dye-free, and preservative-free.
Be cautious with at-home remedies: While some natural remedies like lemon (due to its citric acid content) may help lighten the skin, be cautious with other online remedies, and consult a doctor before trying anything. Over-exfoliation can cause irritation.
Consult a doctor: If at-home treatments don’t yield significant results, talk to a doctor who may prescribe lotions or creams containing ingredients like niacinamide, retinol, kojic acid, or hydroquinone. In-office options like chemical peels, dermabrasion, or microdermabrasion may also be considered.
Address underlying health conditions: If you suspect PCOS, diabetes, or other health concerns in addition to dark underarms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention and get a comprehensive evaluation.

How to get rid of dark underarms medically?

Lightening agents
IPL
Lasers

Do Note

Remember that dark underarms may not always be just a cosmetic issue; they can be an indicator of an underlying health problem. Therefore, seeking a diagnosis from a healthcare professional is essential to rule out or address any potential health concerns first. Once the underlying cause is managed, appropriate skin-directed therapies can be considered for lightening the underarms if needed.