How to get rid of hyperpigmentation armpits

Updated on: 12 August 2021, 11:11 am IST

Shaving or waxing your underarms is not the only criteria to rock a noodle strap or a corset. You underarms need to look and be healthy as well. No, we are not talking about body odor but hinting at those dark underarms that you’ve been neglecting for quite some time.

For your information, it is not okay to give it a blind eye, because having dark underarms is also a sign that your health might be in trouble.

The major reasons behind discoloration of your dark armpits can be:

Overuse of deodorants
Shaving it and not moisturizing it properly
Accumulation of dead skin
Bacterial infections, due to excessive sweating
Wearing tight clothes which can lead to abrasion
Diabetes and obesity can also lead to dark armpits
Smoker’s melanosis, which is hyperpigmentation caused by smoking

Figured out what your cause of concern is? It’s we tip you a little.

Here are some home remedies to lighten your underarms

1. It’s time to manage your weight sistah!

We just revealed that obesity and weight gain is one of the major reasons behind dark underarms, that’s why this needs to be tackled ASAP. And to be honest, it’s not a bad idea at all.

2. Aloe vera is the best

“Aloe vera is known as the medicinal plant that contains antibacterial properties that soothe inflamed skin and lighten discoloured armpits. Massage your underarms with the aloe vera gel, letting it dry for about 20 minutes. It helps to remove dark underarms,” suggests renowned dermatologist Dr Ajay Rana.

Soothe your armpits with aloe vera. Image courtesy: Shutterstock.

3. Give apple cider vinegar a shot

The thing is that apple cider vinegar is the prime ingredient that is rich in amino and lactic acid. This helps to clear dead skin cells and lessen scars. It contains major astringent properties that unclog the pores and reduce the appearance of skin darkness. Take apple cider vinegar on a cotton pad, pat it into the armpit area and leave it, until it dries completely before washing it off. So, there is no harm in trying.

4. Vitamin D creams can be a good solution as well, since they help in reducing skin pigmentation.

Vitamin D is also an essential for your armpits. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

5. Baking soda to the rescue

“Baking soda is a natural exfoliator that unclogs the pores and lightens dark underarms. Lemon also contains antiseptic properties and is known as the natural bleaching agent. To use this, mix baking soda and lemon to make a paste. Then apply this scrub over your underarms for a few minutes, wash it off using lukewarm water, and finish up by moisturising your skin,” says Dr Rana.

6. Potato juice can also be used

Who would have thought that a humble potato can be your armpit’s saviour? Potatoes are great to tackle pigmentation and discolouration in the underarms. To apply it on the underarms, peel a potato and squeeze its juice out, apply it directly on the armpits and rinse it off after 10-15 minutes. Trust us, it helps in smoothening and softening the skin.

Potato juice or potato scrub is a great way to lighten your underarms. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

7. Last but not the least, turmeric

Dr Rana suggests that turmeric contains major skin healing and lightening properties, so applying it to the underarm area will brighten the skin as well as offer relief from itching.

So ladies, make the most of these tips and set your underarms free!

Dark underarms could be embarrassing any time of the year. And, let's accept that most Indian women fight this skin condition, but there's something you need to know! Dark armpits can be lightened at home easily and you don't need to see a skin doctor reverse this condition. Well, here's a look at five kitchen remedies that can help you get rid of dark underarms.
Baking soda

Found in almost every household, baking soda is the best thing to lighten underarms. All you need to do is mix baking soda with water to make a thick paste. Now, apply this paste to scrub your underarms twice a week and scrub the underarms. After you are done scrubbing, just wash the mixture off and pat dry the area.

Coconut oil

It's the most widely available oil in the country as it's produced locally and trust it to be the most useful. It's popular for its natural skin lightening agent - vitamin E. Just massage your underarms with coconut oil daily and leave it on for fifteen minutes. Post that wash it off with normal water.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar not only cuts fat but also removes dead cells as it contains mild acids that are natural cleansers. Mix two tablespoons each ACV with baking soda and apply this mixture on your armpits. Now leave it on for five minutes and rinse it with cold water when dry.

Olive oil

In ancient times, women used to use olive oil to enhance their beauty and that's exactly what it does till date. Try mixing a tablespoon of olive oil with one tablespoon brown sugar, and you have your very own homemade exfoliator ready. Scrub it for two minutes and then leave it for a few minutes. Now, rinse it off with normal water.

Lemon

Lemon is considered to be a natural bleaching agent. Just rub half a lemon on the dark area every day for two-three minutes before taking a bath and you will see a remarkable difference.

End of the article

Do dark underarms go away?

Sadly, dark underarms will not miraculously fade on their own. The only way you can fix the problem is if you address the root. So if your black armpits stem from excessive sweating, you need a good antiperspirant. If the culprit is excessive shaving or dryness, lessen shaving times and moisturize the area well.

Why do I have hyperpigmentation on my armpits?

The most likely cause of hyperpigmentation under your arms is irritation, either from shaving or using a deodorant that's harsh on your particular skin type. Shaving, rubbing, and scratching can all irritate your delicate underarm skin, and that reaction can lead to hyperpigmentation.