Although rarely of medical significance, dark underarms are a serious cosmetic concern for some people, directly affecting clothing styles and social comfort. Dark underarms are most commonly associated with acanthosis nigricans, a condition linked to high insulin levels and obesity. Treatment focuses on lightening the skin while resolving any underlying medical reasons for the skin discoloration.
Treat Underlying Causes
The two most common causes of acanthosis nigricans are elevated insulin levels and obesity. Work with your doctor to develop a diet and exercise plan that will help you lose weight and control your insulin levels. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends a diet low in sugars and starches to stabilize insulin levels and encourage weight loss. Medication may be necessary to lower your insulin levels, according to MayoClinic.com. The Cleveland Clinic states that hypothyroidism, Addison disease and pituitary disorders may also cause dark underarms.
Topical Remedies
Over-the-counter creams containing vitamin A derivatives, urea, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids or lactic acid may help speed up skin lightening while you are undergoing treatment for the underlying cause of your dark underarms. Prescription bleaching creams, such as hydroquinone, are generally more effective than over-the-counter products, but these may still take years to return your skin to its normal color.
Dermabrasion and Laser Therapy
According to MayoClinic.com, both dermabrasion and laser therapy can reduce the thickness of areas affected by acanthosis nigricans and improve the appearance of dark underarms. These procedures remove the top layer of skin to allow lighter skin that is closer in texture to the surrounding skin to grow in its place. Multiple treatments are usually necessary to fade the discoloration.
Other Remedies
In rare cases, dark underarms may be a side effect of certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, systemic corticosteroids and nicotinic acid. Discontinuing the offending medication is usually the only treatment necessary, according to the New Zealand Dermatological Society website. MayoClinic.com states that high doses of niacin may also cause dark underarms and recommends taking fish oil supplements to improve the appearance of your underarms.
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