Introduction 

Hyperpigmentation is something that's been a concern for people the world over, especially among people of colour. Pigmentation on our elbows, knees, underarms, and neck is quite common. Thankfully, there are a few ways in which the problem of dark underarms can be addressed. But first, let's understand the causes.

Causes of Dark Underarms

Dark underarms can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the common ones are:

Excessive Use of Deodorants or Antiperspirants - Deodorants and antiperspirants contain a variety of chemicals that can cause irritation and darkening of the underarms. These chemicals can include aluminium chloride, alcohol, and fragrances, which can cause skin irritation and discolouration.

Hyperpigmentation - This is another common skin condition that can affect any part of the body but is especially common in the underarms. Hyperpigmentation causes dark patches, which can be embarrassing and difficult to cover up. It is usually caused by an excess production of melanin in response to irritation, sun exposure, or hormonal changes.

Acanthosis nigricans - Acanthosis nigricans is a dark, velvety skin discolouration that typically appears in body folds and creases. It is caused by an excess of insulin in the body and is often seen in people with obesity, diabetes, or certain endocrine disorders.

Furthermore, using harsh soaps, shaving, or waxing the armpits can all cause the skin to darken.

In some cases, dark underarms can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or an endocrine disorder. It is therefore important to seek medical advice if you are experiencing persistent discolouration of your underarms.

 

Precautions to Take When Treating Dark Underarms

Before you start any underarm darkness removal treatment, there are a few precautions you'll need to take.

• First and foremost, stop using any deodorants or antiperspirants. These products can often make the discolouration worse.

• Also, avoid using any harsh scrubs or chemical peels. These can cause further irritation and inflammation, which will only make the situation worse. If you're not sure which products are right for you, you must try your hands on the Dermdoc 5% Glycolic Acid Underarm Treatment. It's specially formulated to treat discolouration and lighten and brighten underarms.

Best Treatment For Dark Underarms

Chemicals are often used to treat dark underarms. One such magical chemical is glycolic acid, which is highly effective in brightening up underarms.

Let's see how it works:

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid that works to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and helping lighten dark underarms. Because dark underarms are often caused by a buildup of dead skin cells, glycolic acid can help reduce discolouration by removing them.

It also helps reduce the appearance of any bumps or roughness in the skin while promoting cell turnover, which helps generate new skin cells. 

Other topical creams containing ingredients like kojic acid and azelaic acid can also be used.

Laser treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) and fractional laser treatments, are also used as underarm darkness removal treatments.

Additionally, regular exfoliation and moisturization can help reduce the darkness of the underarm area.

Tips on How to Maintain Light and Bright Underarms

Once you've managed to lighten your dark underarms, maintaining their light and bright colour can seem daunting. But don't worry—it's much easier than it seems. Here are some tips you can follow to keep your underarms looking fresh and healthy: 

• Wear natural fabrics: Choose clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton, which allow air to pass through and don't cause sweat to accumulate in the area. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes and opt for loose-fitting ones instead.

• Exfoliate regularly: Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or loofah that will help remove dead skin cells, which can cause darkening in the area. Make sure you exfoliate at least two to three times a week for the best results.

• Moisturize daily: Use an unscented moisturizing lotion every day after taking a shower so your skin stays hydrated and healthy.

Dietary Changes To Your Rescue

Changing your diet could have a great impact on your dark underarms. Eating healthy and having a balanced diet can improve blood circulation and help reduce the darkness of the skin. Make sure you are getting enough vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, as these have various roles to play in maintaining healthy skin. A good intake of calcium will also help, as underarm darkness can be caused by a lack of calcium in the body too.

Consume foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and green tea. They work to block free radicals that can damage the skin around the armpits. You should also look into eating foods that are high in zinc, which helps lighten dark spots on the skin caused by hyperpigmentation or sun damage. Some of these include spinach, liver, mushrooms, and pumpkin seeds.

Lastly, to help reduce inflammation and redness, drink plenty of water throughout the day as this will keep your body hydrated and promote overall health!

Conclusion

Now that you know the best tips for dark underarm treatment, it's time to act. Investing some time and effort into following the tips above can help you achieve brighter underarms.

Dark underarms don't have to be daunting, and with just a few simple steps in your daily routine, you can effectively keep your skin healthy and glowing. So, don't wait any longer—say goodbye to dark underarms today!

Key Takeaways

To sum up, there are a few key takeaways to keep in mind when it comes to dark underarms treatment:

• Invest in a skincare routine that includes products specifically formulated for dark underarms. Make sure to include an exfoliating scrub, as this will help to protect and brighten the skin.

• Be mindful of any fragrances or dyes in your skincare products, as these can cause further irritation and darkening.

• Consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your underarm area.

Hopefully, these tips will help you achieve smooth, evenly-toned underarms that make you feel confident!

For more such interesting reads and access to a wide range of active-based skincare, visit the DermDoc website today!