Dark marks on your underarms can make you feel self-conscious to raise your arms, wear tank tops or freely wear summer attire. As distressing as they are, these marks are common. Causes range from fungal infections, skin disorders to shaving and deodorants and even skin thickening. Darkness in the armpits can be treated, as long as you know what's causing the pigmentation problems.
Step 1
Shave using a shaving cream, no matter what. Shaving cream provides a slick barrier of protection between the razor blade and your sensitive skin. Skin under the arms can be damaged or darkened through repeated nicks, cuts and abrasions.
Step 2
Opt to wax your armpits. Waxing pulls out the entire hair, leaving your underarms smoother and free of that pesky shadow of hair just beneath the skin's surface.
Step 3
Avoid deodorant products that contain aluminum, as this can irritate your skin and lead to discoloration.
Step 4
Visit a doctor to be checked for medical conditions or skin disorders such as acanthosis nigricans. This condition requires prescription medications such as Retin-A to reduce the dark pigmentation and to help thin the skin back out over time. Acanthosis nigricans occurs when some areas on the body, such as the armpits, start to thicken and darken. It is fairly common in those with diabetes.
Step 5
Treat any fungal infections you may have. If a fungus takes up root in your underarms, it will itch badly and leave your skin looking darker than normal. Apply a hydrocortisone cream to the skin each day to kill the fungus and to ease the inflammation. If the infection does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, seek help from a dermatologist. A doctor can prescribe a corticosteroid to help relieve the problem.
Member Comments