Suggestions for Dark Underarms: Tip of the Day 5-20-22

If your underarms are getting a darker, some minor adjustments to your selfcare routine could help. But keep reading, because dark underarms (and neck) could also be a symptom of an underlying issue.

Medical experts say having dark underarms is not always cause for concerns. Many people simply don’t like it for cosmetic reasons. If that’s the case, switching to waxing could help. Also, experts recommend moisturizing underarms before and after hair removal, gently exfoliating, and using masks that contain curcumin (pigment in turmeric), lemon juice, milk thistle, or sea cucumber extract on your arm pits.

*Lemon juice may dry out or irritate the skin. Over exfoliating underarms could also irritate the skin. You may want to try a gentle exfoliating wash for sensitive skin formulated for the face. Talk to a doctor or dermatologist before using home remedies for dark underarms.

Your doctor or dermatologist might prescribe a cream, gel, ointment or antibiotic to help lighten your underarms.

Laser therapy can reduce underarm skin thickness that often contributes to darkening. This can help underarms appear lighter and might also decrease hair growth (so less shaving is needed). Medical researchers say sometimes medicines including birth control pills cause underarm darkness. Your doctor may be able to switch your medication to help with this.

There are instances when dark underarms are because of something serious. Doctors say acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a skin disorder that typically occurs in people who have an underlying medical condition, like diabetes, underactive thyroid, polycystic ovary syndrome, obesity, or in rare cases, cancer.

If you notice your underarms and neck darkening, it’s best to see your dermatologist or primary doctor to check for any underlying concerns.

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