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Do you shy away from sleeveless dresses and tops because it will reveal your dark underarms? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. Dark underarms can be quite embarrassing but it is one of the most common problems among both men and women. Instead of shying away, how about we discuss the causes of discoloured armpit area?
Here are the 5 major causes of dark underarms and how you can correct it.
Causes of Dark Underarms and How to Address Them
Daily Habits that could be Responsible for your Dark Underarms
01: Shaving
Shaving is surely one of the quickest ways to get rid of underarm hair. However, this only cuts hair off the surface revealing the hair follicles that are sitting just below the surface of the skin. Regular shaving can also lead to skin hardening and itching leading to irritation and uneven skin tone.
Solution: Shaving harms your skin in more ways than one, we suggest you use a fresh, clean razor each time you shave, remember to follow it up with some aloe vera gel to calm the skin. Also, use a good antiperspirant roll-on like the Rexona Whitening Roll-On on a daily basis to curb skin darkening and irritation.
02: Waxing
Does waxing make underarms dark? Yes, absolutely! If you think waxing is a better alternative to shaving, think again. While pulling the hair off waxing also removes a thin layer of the skin making it more susceptible to infection and irritation. Repeated waxing causes skin to lose its elasticity and appear darker with time.
Solution: Can waxing cause dark underarms? Since you can’t avoid hair removal, we suggest you take utmost care of your underarm skin. We recommend you use the all new Rexona Whitening Roll-On in Fresh Rose to make sure your sensitive underarm skin is cared for.
03: Dead skin build-up
Dead skin cells get accumulated all over the body on the surface of the skin. Deep cleansing is essential to get rid of dead skin cells around the underarm area as it can be one of the major reasons for dark underarms.
Solution: A good practice will be to exfoliate this area every 3-4 days to avoid the accumulation of dead skin cells.
04: Wearing tight clothes
Friction caused due to wearing tight clothes can also cause discoloration. Your underarm skin is more sensitive and wearing body-hugging clothes causes friction between the cloth and your skin leading to itchy and irritated armpits.
Solution: Wear well-fitted clothes that are not too tight, especially immediately after you’ve removed your underarm hair.
05: Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where the skin produces excess melanin pigment giving your underarms a darkened appearance. Certain spots on your underarms appear darker than the rest making it look uneven and hyperpigmented. This can be corrected by using the right products or consulting a dermatologist.
Solution: A little TLC can completely transform your delicate underarm area and correct uneven skin tone. Apart from wearing skin-friendly clothes and keeping the area dry and clean we recommend using the Rexona Whitening Roll-On in Fresh Lily. It curbs odour and gives visibly fairer underarms in just 5 days.
06. Use of Harsh Deodorants/Antiperspirants
Many deodorants contain alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and aluminum compounds that can irritate and darken the delicate underarm skin over time.
Solution: Switch to gentle, fragrance-free or natural deodorants with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil.
07. Hormonal Imbalances
Conditions like PCOS, insulin resistance, or thyroid disorders can lead to pigmentation changes, including in the underarms.
Solution: Consult a healthcare provider to address underlying hormonal issues and consider using dermatologist-recommended brightening creams.
08. Genetic Factors
Sometimes, dark underarms are hereditary and part of your natural skin tone or melanin distribution.
Solution: Focus on gentle skincare and targeted treatments like niacinamide or AHA-based serums to gradually even out tone.
09. Poor Hygiene
Sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells can build up and lead to discoloration if not cleaned regularly.
Solution: Maintain daily cleansing with a mild antibacterial wash and exfoliate the area 1–2 times a week.
10. Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, like oral contraceptives or insulin, can trigger hyperpigmentation in areas like the underarms.
Solution: Speak with your doctor about potential alternatives or add skin-brightening products to your routine to manage pigmentation.
11. Friction from Tight Clothing
Constant rubbing from tight sleeves or synthetic fabrics can cause irritation and dark patches.
Solution: Choose breathable, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton to reduce friction.
12. Frequent Shaving
Shaving can cause repeated micro-cuts and irritation, which over time darkens the skin.
Solution: Switch to waxing or laser hair removal, and always moisturize post-hair removal to soothe the skin.
13. Lack of Exfoliation
Accumulated dead skin cells can cause dullness and uneven skin tone.
Solution: Use a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant like lactic acid weekly to keep skin smooth and bright.
14. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
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Skin darkening that occurs after irritation, allergic reactions, or ingrown hairs.
Solution: Treat inflammation promptly and use brightening agents like licorice extract or alpha arbutin to fade discoloration over time.
How to Get Rid of Dark Underarms: Effective Tips and Solutions
If you're wondering how to get rid of dark underarms, the key is consistency, gentle care, and using the right products. Here are some effective ways to treat and prevent underarm pigmentation:
- Exfoliating Scrubs
Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and buildup that contribute to darkness. Use gentle scrubs with ingredients like sugar or lactic acid 1–2 times a week.
- Skin Brightening Creams
Topical treatments with niacinamide, licorice extract, or alpha arbutin can lighten pigmentation over time and even out skin tone.
- Sensitive Skin Deodorants
Switch to deodorants made for sensitive skin—free from alcohol, fragrance, and aluminum—to prevent further irritation and darkening.
- Home Remedies for Dark Underarms
Natural treatments like potato juice, aloe vera, turmeric, or lemon (used with caution) can help brighten underarm skin over time. Check out our full guide on home remedies for dark underarms for DIY options.
- Laser Hair Removal
Laser treatments reduce the need for shaving, minimize irritation, and can gradually improve underarm discoloration.
- Moisturizing Daily
Hydrated skin heals better. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer daily to soothe the underarms and prevent friction-induced darkening.
- Chemical Peels (Professional Treatment)
Mild chemical peels performed by dermatologists can help exfoliate and lighten the area effectively over a few sessions.
Whether it’s friction from tight clothes, irritation from shaving or waxing, or medical conditions, addressing these habits directly will greatly enhance the appearance of your underarms. Additionally, regular care, including mild exfoliation, and consulting a doctor when needed, are important steps toward achieving bright, even-toned underarm skin. By following the advice in this guide you can bid adieu to dark underarms and the embarrassment that comes with it.
FAQs on Daily Habits That Could be Responsible for Dark Underarms
Below are some frequently asked questions about dark underarms answered by the experts:
Q: Does waxing darken underarms?
A: Yes, waxing could possibly darken underarms. While waxing gets rid of hair from the root, it also removes a thin layer of skin, making the region more prone to irritation and inflammation. This repeated acting could trigger melanin production, resulting in hyperpigmentation and a darker appearance over time.
Q: Are deodorants or antiperspirants responsible for darkening underarms?
A: Yes, certain deodorants and antiperspirants, especially those with alcohol or fragrances, could irritate the delicate underarm skin. This irritation could cause inflammation and hyperpigmentation.
Q: Could underlying medical conditions cause dark underarms?
A: In certain cases, yes. Some medical conditions could cause dark, velvety patches on the skin, including the underarms. It’s important to speak to a healthcare professional if you think your underarms could be dark due to a medical issue.
Q: Are there any natural remedies to lighten dark underarms?
A: Yes, there are numerous natural remedies that you could find helpful. Ingredients such as lemon juice, aloe vera, and turmeric have been recommended for their lightening properties. However, results differ, and it's advisable to perform a patch test before applying anything new to your complexion, particularly in sensitive areas like your underarms.
Q: How often should I exfoliate my underarms to prevent darkening?
A: Exfoliating 1-2 times a week is typically recommended. Over-exfoliating could irritate your underarm skin, so it’s advisable to be gentle while exfoliating. Utilise a mild scrub or a soft washcloth to avoid causing irritation.
Q: Can hormonal changes cause dark underarms?
A: Yes, hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy or due to some medications, can affect melanin production and result in hyperpigmentation in the underarm region.
Q: Could certain medications cause dark underarms?
A: Yes, some medications could possibly elevate melanin production and lead to hyperpigmentation in several areas of the body, including the underarms. If you suspect your medication is contributing to skin darkening, speak with a healthcare professional.
Q: Is laser hair removal a better option for preventing dark underarms?
A: Laser hair removal could be a better option for some individuals, as it targets the hair follicle directly without resulting in the same level of irritation as shaving or waxing. By minimising hair growth, it can reduce the need for frequent hair removal.
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