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What Causes Dark Armpits?

Updated: Mar 7, 2023

Discoloration and Irritation around the armpit area are common issues many people face. There are several factors that contribute to discoloration and irritation in that particular area. Having dark underarms can come from many things like your deodorant, hormones, medication, shaving, skin and/or medical conditions and more.



What Causes Dark Armpits?

Dark underarms, or darkened skin in the armpit area, can be caused by several factors, including:

  1. Shaving: Regular shaving can cause dark underarms, as the razor can irritate and darken the skin.

  2. Deodorants and antiperspirants: Some ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants, such as aluminum and fragrance, can cause skin irritation and darkening.

  3. Hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces more melanin, resulting in darker skin. This can be caused by hormonal changes, certain medications, or genetics.

  4. Friction: Friction from tight clothing or physical activity can cause darkening in the armpit area.

  5. Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene can cause a buildup of bacteria and dead skin cells, leading to darkening of the skin.

  6. Skin discoloration could also be caused by a hormonal imbalance experienced by women who are pregnant or taking birth control.


How to Get Rid or Improve Dark Armpits:

To treat dark armpits, one can try exfoliating the area regularly, avoiding tight clothing, using natural deodorants, and keeping the area clean and dry. Take a look at a few other ways to get rid of dark armpits below:


1. Change your deodorant – some deodorants contain toxic chemicals such as aluminum that can lead to irritation and discoloration. Try using a natural deodorant.

2. Exfoliate and moisturize – the skin underneath your arms need love too. It is important to exfoliate and moisturize your armpits. Exfoliating at least 3 times a week will help remove dead skin cells from building up underneath the underarms. Moisturizing your armpits will heal and protect the skin.

3. Stop shaving – some people have experienced minimal or no discoloration when the hair underneath the arm is removed by waxing or laser hair removal.

4. Wear loose clothing – certain fabrics and soaps you use to wash your clothes can cause irritation to the armpits. It is important to let your underarm breathe.


Benefits Of Using A Natural Deodorant For Dark Armpits

Using a natural deodorant can provide a number of benefits for dark armpits, including:

  1. Reduced irritation: Natural deodorants are typically free of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, which can help reduce irritation and inflammation in the sensitive skin of the underarm area.

  2. Improved skin health: Some natural deodorants contain ingredients that can help soothe and nourish the skin, such as coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera.

  3. Reduced odor: Natural deodorants often contain antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil and witch hazel, which can help reduce the bacteria that cause body odor.

  4. Avoidance of harmful chemicals: Many conventional deodorants contain aluminum and other chemicals that have been linked to health concerns such as breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Using a natural deodorant can help you avoid these potentially harmful ingredients.

  5. Lightening of dark armpits: Some natural deodorants contain ingredients like lemon or cucumber that can help lighten dark underarm skin over time.

Overall, using a natural deodorant can be a safer and healthier choice for your underarms and may provide additional benefits for dark armpits.





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