Dark underarms, also known as underarm hyperpigmentation, are a condition in which the skin in the armpit area is darker than the surrounding skin.
It can often be a problem that affects one’s self-confidence, especially for women.
The sight of your dark armpit may make you uncomfortable with your look. It will make you think twice about wearing tank tops or bikinis that can expose the area.
This article will discuss what causes dark underarms and how to get rid of it, both naturally and medically.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the discussion below!
Why Are Your Armpits Dark?
Dark underarms can be caused by various factors. It’s important for you to understand the causes, as it will affect how you get rid of it.
Here are explanations about the various causes of dark underarms.
Bacterial Infection
Dark armpits can be caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium minutissimum. This bacteria can thrive in someone who sweats excessively.
Additionally, living in a humid environment and not maintaining proper hygiene can lead to the spread of bacteria and eventually result in an infection.
People who are overweight and at risk of diabetes are also more susceptible to this bacterial infection.
So, prioritizing cleanliness and maintaining a healthy weight can minimize the risk of such bacterial infections. This indirectly helps you avoid the causes of dark underarms.
Shaving
Now, shaving itself does not cause dark underarms. During pregnancy, the body undergoes hormonal changes that are often unstable compared to usual.
The same goes for dark underarms in pregnant women, which is also caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy that stimulate increased melanin production.
Nevertheless, dark armpits in pregnant women will fade a few months after giving birth.
You can actually eliminate the need for shaving with our SHR treatments. Ready to try? Check out our service prices now!
Acanthosis nigricans
The darkening of the underarms can be caused by a condition called Acanthosis Nigricans, where a person experiences thickening of the skin and a darker skin tone.
This condition typically occurs in individuals who are obese, have PCOS, diabetes, or as a result of certain medication usage.
Read also: 7 Ways to Keep Underarms Clean: How to Shave Armpits Right
How to Get Rid of Dark Underarms Naturally
If you’re looking for alternatives with easily accessible, natural ingredients, then here is the answer.
Generally, natural remedies tend to provide results that take longer to show. This is because natural ingredients require time to have an effect on the skin, and it may take up to 6 months or more to see noticeable changes.
Always remember to understand your skin condition to avoid irritation and potential side effects.
Here are some ingredients that can help get rid of dark armpits:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural ingredient that can be used as a method to lighten dark underarm skin.
The process is quite simple. You just need to mix apple cider vinegar with baking soda until bubbles form.
Then, apply the mixture to the armpit area and leave it on for 3 minutes. After that, rinse your underarms with clean water.
Make sure to rinse thoroughly and dry with a towel. For best results, it is recommended to repeat this method three times a week.
2. Turmeric
Another way to get rid of dark armpits is by using turmeric. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants that can help lighten the dark skin in the underarm area.
You can incorporate turmeric into your daily meal prep by consuming it as a drink.
Additionally, you can mix turmeric powder with lotion and apply it to the dark underarm area.
Leave it on for 30-60 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.
3. Potato
Another way to get rid of dark armpits is by using potatoes.
The catalase enzyme found in potatoes can help naturally whiten the dark skin in the underarm area.
You can do this by rubbing a slice of potato on your underarms, or you can mash it up before applying it.
4. Lemon
You can also treat dark armpits with lemon.
Besides being known for its powerful bleaching properties, lemon also has antiseptic properties that can help eliminate odor in the underarm area.
To treat dark armpits with lemon, you can mix lemon juice with honey, turmeric powder, and plain yogurt.
Avoid applying lemon directly as it may dry out your skin, as lemon contains high levels of acid.
5. Coconut Oil
Dark armpits can be treated with coconut oil. This is because coconut oil contains antioxidants that moisturize and brighten the skin.
To treat it with coconut oil, you can apply it to the darkening underarm area and gently massage it for 10-15 minutes to allow it to absorb into the skin.
Read also: Will Shaving My Armpits Reduce Smell? Let’s Find Out Here!
How to Get Rid of Dark Underarms Medically
In addition to natural methods, dark armpit treatment can also be done medically.
Medical treatments are suitable for those who want faster results compared to natural methods.
Without further ado, here are some recommended medical treatments for the dark skin in the underarm area that you should know.
1. Super Hair Removal
Super Hair Removal, or SHR, is a treatment that removes hair in the underarm area.
You should know that besides permanently removing the hair in the underarms, SHR can also lighten the underarm skin.
This is because SHR uses premium ingredients and modern technology, providing a safe and comfortable hair removal experience.
2. Using Topical Cream
To lighten dark underarm skin, you can also use topical creams.
A cream that can lighten underarm skin is hydroquinone. However, this medication can only be obtained under the supervision of a doctor as it is a prescription-strength drug.
Therefore, it is best to consult with a doctor before deciding to use a lightening cream for your armpits.
3. Peeling
This treatment procedure involves applying a chemical peeling agent to the dark underarm area.
Over time, the skin will gradually peel off, revealing new, brighter, and smoother skin.
This procedure is usually done gradually to achieve optimal results.
Dark Underarm Treatment Recommendation in Singapore
While natural treatments for dark armpits can be easily done, it does take more time to achieve the best results.
As mentioned earlier, you can get ride of dark underarms by undergoing Super Hair Removal treatment.
In addition to removing hair in the underarm area, it also lightens the underarm skin. Totally worth it, right?
To undergo this treatment, you can trust Clean & Tidy. At this professional beauty clinic, you can enjoy safe and comfortable treatments at an affordable price.
Clean & Tidy offers armpit SHR: a painless treatment with the cool touch technology that protects your skin from burning sensations.
So, what are you waiting for? Go book a session at Clean & Tidy Jurong or Bugis today!
So that’s the discussion about what causes dark underarms and how to get rid of it, both with natural and medical methods.
We hope this article can give you worthy insight. Stay tuned for more interesting articles from Clean & Tidy!
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