The 2 best treatments to lighten dark armpits

There are specific treatments to lighten dark underarms. If you suffer from this problem, find out how to solve it and what the most suitable procedures are, according to the dermatologist at Living Clinic.

Lightening dark underarms is an increasingly popular treatment for whitening this area of the body. Many people feel insecure and unconfident about the appearance of their armpits and end up trying to hide them at all costs. However, there is now a solution for this, so there is no longer any reason to cover up dark armpits. 

Basically, treatments designed to lighten underarms can have two mechanisms of action: the first with the use of depigmenting agents, and the second through methods that thin the skin in this area by removing the superficial layers of the skin, which are thicker and have more pigmentation. The result is clearer, firmer and younger-looking skin. The choice of method will depend on what is causing the darkening of the armpits.

So, if you suffer from this condition, find out how you can give your armpits a lighter tone and stop hiding them by opting for simple and safe cosmetic procedures.

Why do armpits get dark?

There are several reasons that can help explain why armpits get dark. Generally, this darkening is always based on an inflammatory process which then culminates in the appearance of dark pigmentation.

Possible causes of this condition include: 

• Genetic predisposition;
• Hair removal using hot wax or a razor, which can damage and irritate the skin;
• Folliculitis, due to ingrown hairs;  
• Obesity and/or decompensated diabetes, associated with an exaggerated production of insulin;
• Deodorants with a high concentration of alcohol and aluminum;
• Excessive sun exposure;
• Fungi and bacteria.

How can underarm stains be avoided?

As well as using methods to lighten dark armpits, there are preventive behaviors that help to avoid the appearance of dark armpits. These preventive measures include:

• Laser hair removal – this method reduces the risk of skin inflammation caused by waxing or shaving;
• Controlling underarm sweating with botulinum toxin – so you don’t need to use antiperspirant deodorants;
• Deodorants without alcohol and aluminum – prefer deodorants without these components, which are moisturizing and suitable for delicate and sensitive skin;
• Comfortable clothes – don’t wear clothes that are too tight, especially in the sleeves. Prefer cotton clothes.

What treatments are best for lightening underarms?

There are several treatments available to treat skin blemishes, particularly dark underarms. The choice of the most suitable treatment for each case should always be considered in a prior consultation with a dermatologist.

Among the treatments indicated to resolve underarm stains are chemical peels and clinical-pharmacological treatments.

Chemical peeling

Chemical peeling consists of applying an acid to a certain area of the skin, which is able to remove the superficial layers of the dermis, resulting in a more uniform and rejuvenated area. This process of chemical exfoliation helps to eliminate skin blemishes, in this case dark spots in the armpits. Various agents can be used in chemical peels, such as retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids.

In order to solve the problem of dark underarms, it is usually necessary to carry out a variable number of sessions, although at least 3 are usually recommended. After two to three weeks, you can expect to start seeing the first results.

This is a completely painless procedure, which may only cause some local heat or burning. To ensure that the recovery goes as smoothly as possible, it is important to take certain precautions:

• Moisturize your skin well and regularly;
• Avoid sun exposure after treatment;
• Do not traumatize the skin;
• Only apply the dermo-cosmetics indicated by the doctor during the skin’s recovery period, around 2 to 3 weeks.

Clinical-pharmacological treatments

During the medical consultation, the dermatologist will investigate and diagnose the cause of the underarm darkening. In cases where there is a significant correlation with the use of deodorants, treatments can be used to control sweating in this area. In this sense, the main treatment is the application of botulinum toxin. It is an extremely effective treatment, with results lasting 9 to 12 months.

There are also other treatments to lighten the armpits, such as lightning dermocosmetics, which are sold ready-made in pharmacies, and manipulated medicines formulated by the dermatologist according to the type of skin and the cause of the hyperhidrosis.

Normally, the products indicated to treat dark underarms use substances such as hydroquinone, alpha hydroxy acids, vitamin C, kojic acid and others, as all of these are used in the treatment of hyperhidrosis.

In addition, whitening products usually contain anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agents and come in lotion, cream or gel form. 

The effectiveness of these treatments will always depend on a number of factors, including the degree of hyperpigmentation, skin color, the cause of the spots and sun exposure. 

Make an appointment with a dermatologist

If you want to lighten your dark underarms, don’t hesitate to contact the Living Clinic. Don’t put off solving this problem any longer and show off your armpits without fear or shame. With very simple and safe procedures, carried out by the clinic’s dermatologist, you can have light and beautiful armpits that don’t cause any embarrassment.

After undergoing these aesthetic procedures, don’t forget that you should continue to take certain precautions to prevent dark spots from reappearing on your armpits.