Fix Dark Underarm Discoloration

Dark underarm discoloration is a problem that affects men and women, and is often unwanted and embarrassing. If you suffer from underarm discoloration, it often appears as though underarm hair is constantly present, which can lead to less confidence when wearing tank tops and bathing suits.

This issue is caused by health, genetics, and lifestyle choices, so understanding the different causes of underarm discoloration will help you determine what course of action is best for you. 

Cause #1: Shaving

Shaving your armpit hair may give your underarms a dark, discolored appearance. This happens because shaving cuts the hairs at the surface of the skin, leaving behind small amounts of stubble.  If your hair is darker than the skin, stubble will cause underarms to appear darker than other parts of your body.  

Solution:  Wax instead of shaving.  

Waxing removes hair from the root, eliminating the appearance of dark stubble.  It also damages hair follicles, which reduces the amount of underarm hair over time.

Cause #2: Antiperspirants and Deodorants

Certain ingredients found in antiperspirant products can react with individual body chemistry to cause discoloration. Studies have shown that some skin has adverse reactions with antiperspirants, leading to dark, irritated underarms. 

Solution:  Go all natural.

Try switching over to all-natural deodorants which are free from aluminum and nitrium.

Cause #3: Dead Skin Cells

Because the underarms have very little exposure to oxygen, exfoliation, and sunshine, dead cells are known to accumulate in the underarm area which causes dark skin pigmentation.

Solution: Hydrate with oils.  

Applying almond, coconut, or Vitamin E oils to the underarm lubricates and revitalizes the skin, leading to less dead skin cells and less darkness.

Cause #4: Genetics

Some ethnicities, such as Hispanic and African, are more prone to dark underarm skin due to the genetic makeup of skin cells.  Women are also more likely to have dark underarms than men.

Solution: Incorporate natural remedies.  

Using natural products like turmeric and lemon juice are great for lightening skin.  Making a paste of lemon juice and turmeric, and leaving it on the skin for 12 minutes, is a sure way to eliminate hyperpigmentation. 

Fix dark underarms? Check!

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