Brown, discolored and textured armpits result from a disorder called acanthosis nigricans. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) identifies elevated insulin levels as the most common cause, while other causes include obesity and medications, and less often heredity, hormonal imbalances, endocrine problems and tumors. As the New Zealand Dermatological Society (NZDS) explains, getting clear armpits is generally a matter of treating the underlying cause of your acanthosis nigricans.
Step 1
Reduce starch and sugar consumption. As the OACD states, these foods contribute to insulin resistance, which in turn elevates insulin levels, triggering cellular activity in the skin that leads to acanthosis nigricans. Lowering insulin to healthy levels is often all it takes to clear up discolored armpits, assures the OACD.
Step 2
Reduce your weight to a healthy level and maintain it. Extra weight is closely associated with elevated insulin levels and acanthosis nigricans. Follow a well-balanced diet, incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, while avoiding empty calories. Exercise regularly, but be sure to start gradually and consult your doctor for advice about a safe routine.
Step 3
Manage type 2 diabetes if you have it. This condition is also closely associated with elevated insulin levels and discolored armpits. The National Institutes of Health advises healthy eating and exercise for weight control, learning proper self-monitoring and treatment of blood glucose levels, carefully following your medication prescriptions and storage instructions, and working closely with your doctor to keep the condition in check.
Step 4
Check the side effects of any medications you take. Discolored armpits may be a known side effect, and in these instances changing medications can clear them up. The NZDS lists nicotinic acid, insulin, corticosteroids and hormone treatments as possible causes. Oral contraceptives and high doses of niacin may also be responsible, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 5
Try a topical hydroquinone skin bleaching treatment. Weaker concentrations are available over-the-counter, while stronger ones can be prescribed. As DermaDoctor.com explains, hydroquinone is the only FDA-approved skin bleaching agent. Be advised that effective treatment can take months to a year or longer of consistent use, and care must be taken to apply the bleacher only to effected skin, as it will bleach any skin to which it is applied.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about other medications that can help clear up your underarms. The Mayo Clinic lists vitamin A-based topical treatments, oral treatments like isotretinoin and fish oil supplements as possibilities. Additionally, discuss laser skin resurfacing procedures or dermabrasion for severely discolored armpits with your dermatologist.
- See your doctor for medical evaluation of your discolored armpits. If it isn't resulting from excess weight and/or insulin levels, it may stem from other medical conditions requiring treatment, including a tumor, Cushing's syndrome or an endocrine disorder.
Things You'll Need
- Hydroquinone cream
- Isotretinoin
- Fish oil supplements
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