Brightening Treatments for Dark Underarms

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Dark underarms can be a source of discomfort or insecurity for many people, but they are a common issue and usually not a cause for concern. Often caused by friction, shaving, sweating, and even the use of harsh deodorants, dark underarms can be managed with proper care and some effective treatments. Here are some brightening treatments and tips to help restore an even skin tone in the underarm area.

Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation is essential for removing dead skin cells and reducing pigmentation in the underarms. Build-up from sweat, deodorant, and dead skin can contribute to the dark appearance.

Sugar Scrub: Mix sugar with coconut oil or honey to create a natural exfoliating scrub. Gently rub the mixture on your underarms in circular motions before showering to help remove dead skin cells.
Exfoliating Gloves or Loofah: Use an exfoliating glove or loofah with a gentle cleanser in the shower to slough off dead skin regularly. Avoid over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin and cause further darkening.
Chemical Exfoliants: Products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as glycolic or salicylic acid, are great for gently exfoliating and lightening dark areas. These acids work by breaking down dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover.

Natural Brightening Remedies

Several natural ingredients have brightening properties that can help reduce pigmentation over time. These at-home remedies are gentle, easy to use, and effective.

Lemon Juice: Known for its natural bleaching properties, lemon juice is a popular remedy for dark underarms. Apply fresh lemon juice to the underarms and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. Be sure to moisturize afterward, as lemon can be drying.
Turmeric Paste: Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and skin brightener. Mix turmeric powder with yogurt or honey to create a paste and apply it to the underarms. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes before rinsing off. This can gradually lighten the skin.
Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera is soothing and can help lighten skin over time. Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the underarms and leave it on for about 20 minutes before washing it off.
Potato Slices: Potatoes contain natural bleaching agents that can help reduce dark spots. Rub thin slices of potato on your underarms or apply potato juice for 10-15 minutes daily.

Skin Lightening Creams and Serums

For those looking for quicker results, over-the-counter creams and serums formulated specifically for skin lightening may be effective. These products often contain ingredients that inhibit melanin production and improve skin tone.

Vitamin C Serums: Vitamin C is known for its brightening and antioxidant properties. Applying a vitamin C serum to the underarms can help fade dark spots over time.
Niacinamide Creams: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a powerhouse ingredient for reducing hyperpigmentation. Creams containing niacinamide can help brighten and even out the skin tone while soothing irritation.
Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a potent skin-lightening ingredient often found in prescription creams. It reduces melanin production and can effectively treat dark underarms when used under a dermatologist’s guidance.

Laser Treatments

If natural and topical treatments aren’t giving the desired results, laser treatments may be a more effective solution. Laser therapy targets melanin in the skin, breaking down the pigmentation that causes dark underarms.

Laser Skin Resurfacing: This procedure uses concentrated light beams to remove the top layers of skin, stimulating new skin growth and reducing pigmentation over time. It’s a popular choice for those with stubborn dark underarms.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Similar to laser therapy, IPL uses light to target dark pigmentation in the skin. It’s a non-invasive option for treating hyperpigmentation in sensitive areas like the underarms.

Avoid Irritants and Friction

Prevention is key when it comes to managing dark underarms. Reducing the causes of irritation and friction can help keep the skin tone even.

Switch to Gentle Deodorants: Some antiperspirants and deodorants contain harsh chemicals that can darken underarm skin. Opt for natural or aluminum-free deodorants to reduce irritation and prevent pigmentation.
Shaving with Care: Shaving can cause friction and irritation, leading to dark spots over time. Use a sharp razor and shaving cream to minimize friction. Alternatively, consider waxing or laser hair removal, which can help reduce darkening caused by shaving.
Wear Breathable Fabrics: Tight clothing made from synthetic fabrics can cause friction and trap moisture, leading to dark underarms. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton to minimize irritation.

Maintain Proper Underarm Hygiene

Proper hygiene is essential for preventing and treating dark underarms. Keeping the area clean and dry helps reduce irritation and the build-up of bacteria.

Daily Cleansing: Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to wash your underarms daily, especially after sweating. This prevents bacteria and dirt build-up, which can contribute to darkening.
Moisturize Regularly: Dry skin can worsen the appearance of dark underarms. After cleansing, apply a hydrating lotion or natural oil, like coconut or almond oil, to keep the skin soft and smooth.

Professional Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can help remove the top layer of pigmented skin, revealing brighter, fresher skin underneath. This treatment can be done by a dermatologist and is particularly useful for those with more severe hyperpigmentation.

Glycolic Acid Peels: Glycolic acid is a popular choice for chemical peels as it helps exfoliate and brighten the skin. Multiple sessions may be needed for significant results.
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Peels: TCA is a stronger acid that can penetrate deeper layers of the skin. It’s effective for treating hyperpigmentation, but it should only be done by a professional due to its strength.

Here are some products to try

e.l.f. SKIN Vitamin C Serum $13.60