Would you like to have flawless, radiant underarms? Many people desire smooth, even-toned underarms, but dark underarms can be a common problem. Factors such as hair removal, accumulation of dead cells, hyperpigmentation are some of the factors that can darken the armpits. But don’t worry, although it may seem like an odyssey. Whiten underarms naturally is possible.
In this post, we will reveal some tricks and home remedies for you to look amazing underarms without the need for harsh chemicals.
3 Best home remedies for whitening underarms
Before we dive into home remedies for whitening underarms, it’s important to keep in mind that not all remedies are equally effective and some people may experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Whiten underarms with lemon
Lemon contains a high percentage of vitamin C, which according to some studies this nutrient inhibits the production of melanin.
Keep in mind that this fruit can be a bit acidic, so it is important not to leave it on for too long and to moisturize the skin afterwards. Perform the allergy test before applying it.
- Ingredients. Fresh lemon juice and honey.
- Preparation. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with 1 teaspoon of honey.
- Application. Apply the mixture on the underarms with circular movements, leave on for 15 minutes and then rinse with cold water.
- Frequency. Apply this remedy 2-3 times a week.
How to lighten underarms with baking soda
Baking soda is known for its gentle exfoliating and whitening properties, which can help remove dead skin cells and gradually lighten areas like the underarms.
Of course, just like lemon, this compound can be very abrasive, so we recommend that you test beforehand. Also, when applying, do not apply pressure.
- Ingredients. Baking soda and water.
- Preparation. Make a fine paste with baking soda and water.
- Application. Apply the paste on the armpits and rub gently with circular movements.
- Frequency. Use this remedy 1-2 times per week.
Lighten underarms with potato
Potato is a natural whitener, it has vitamin C, antioxidants and enzymes that can help lighten the skin gently and effectively. Best of all, it is non-abrasive and can be more convenient to use.
- Ingredients. Fresh potato.
- Preparation. Cut a piece of fresh potato and rub the surface over underarm skin.
- Application. Let the potato juice act for 10 minutes, then rinse with cold water.
- Frequency. Apply this remedy 1-2 times a day.
Precautions when using home remedies to lighten underarms
Some home remedies contain very effective lightening properties to remove stains from the skin, however, they also have agents that can cause irritation, especially in people with white skin, as they tend to be more sensitive.
Below, we share some recommendations:
- Perform an allergy test. Before applying any remedy over the entire area, test a small amount on an inconspicuous area of skin (such as the inside of the arm) to see if it causes any reaction.
- Do not apply to irritated skin. If the armpits are irritated, cut or injured, do not apply any home remedy.
- Avoid sun exposure. The sun can worsen pigmentation and irritation.
- Consult a dermatologist. If the darkness persists, you feel discomfort or if you have any doubts, consult a specialist.
Why do armpits turn black?
Darkening in the armpits, or even in areas of the body such as the groin, is due to melanin production. This hyperpigmentation can occur due to several causes, which we detail below:
Hair removal
Hair removal can cause irritation, inflammation and pigmentation, regardless of the method you use.
- Waxing. The pull of the wax can irritate the skin, causing inflammation, redness and even folliculitis (infection of the hair follicles). The skin reacts to this irritation by producing more melanin, which darkens the area.
- Shaving. Shaving, especially if not done properly, can also irritate the skin and cause ingrown hairs, which in turn leads to pigmentation.
- Laser hair removal. Although usually a longer-lasting method, laser hair removal can cause darkening in some people, especially if the skin is dark or if the protocol is not followed correctly.
Friction
Friction from clothing rubbing against the skin can silently cause darkening of the armpits.
- Tight clothing. Constant friction from tight-fitting clothing, especially synthetic materials, causes chafing, irritation and darkening of the skin.
- Backpacks and handbags. The weight of backpacks or bags carried on the shoulder can cause chafing and darkening of the skin in the armpits.
Hyperpigmentation
Melanin is a natural pigment that colors the skin and protects it from the sun. Occasionally, hyperpigmentation occurs, i.e. an excessive production of melanin in certain areas, such as the armpits.
This can be caused by several factors, such as constant rubbing, irritation from hair removal, the use of harsh chemicals or even hormonal problems.
Other factors
Don’t fit any of these and still have very black underarms? Well, the truth is, there’s a whole puzzle to this. Here are some other factors that can contribute to the darkening of this area of the body:
- Genetics. Genetic predisposition can also play a role in underarm darkness.
- Hormonal problems. Hormonal imbalances, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can cause changes in skin pigmentation.
- Skin diseases. Certain skin diseases, such as acanthosis nigricans, are characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the skin, including the armpits.
Tips to prevent dark spots
Treating dark underarm spots can be a challenge, it’s best to take preventative measures:
- Exfoliate regularly. Use gentle exfoliants to remove dead skin cells and prevent dirt buildup.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing. Avoid constant friction with tight clothing.
- Moisturize after waxing. Apply moisturizers to avoid irritation and pigmentation.
- Avoid harsh chemicals. Use specific personal care products for underarms.
In short, the underarms are an area of the body that requires attention, you can treat and prevent underarm blemishes.
Bibliography
Review article: Acquired hyperpigmentations. https://www.medigraphic.com/pdfs/cosmetica/dcm-2018/dcm181i.pdf
Rodríguez Gallo, Carmen M, Medina Caballero, Graciela, Cabrera Hernández, Deysi, & Díaz Hernández, Elenia (2002). Natural and Traditional Medicine. Nursing knowledge and applications in MINAS-II. Cuban Journal of Nursing, 18(3), 138-143. Retrieved July 03, 2024, from http://scielo.sld.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0864-03192002000300002&lng=es&tlng=es.