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Five easy solutions to clear your dark underarms

Skin Care
 Dark underarms can make some outfits impossible to pull off (Image: Shutterstock)

Although it is not a medical problem and may not require treatment, it may cause some concern especially if you don’t feel comfortable enough to wear certain outfits due to hyperpigmentation.

In this age of fake beauty, filters and unrealistic standards, dark underarms are not a pretty sight to behold.

While it may not bother everyone, some may choose to brighten their underarms which is understandable.

Other than being genetic, darkened pigmentation may result from shaving, accumulation of dead skin cells, certain medications, insulin resistance, a medical problem, deodorants or even obesity.

It should also be noted that this mostly affects people of color who are more prone to hyperpigmentation.

Good news is, there are home remedies you can try or medical treatments that have been proven to work.

That said, let us jump into the solutions:

 Tree tea oil contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties perfect for treating dark underarms (Image: Shutterstock)
Topical medication

If you have done all you can to control the hyperpigmentation and nothing seems to work, it may be a good idea to pay your dermatologist a visit.

He or she will recommend a topical cream that contains ingredients such as kojic acid, hydroquinone, retinoids or azelaic acid to help even out the skin.

Your dermatologist may also suggest a chemical peel made of retinol for instance to exfoliate and remove the skin’s top layer leaving behind a much brighter, new healthier skin.

Tree tea oil

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this essential oil remains as one of the best ways to treat and correct pigment problems naturally.

It also keeps odour producing bacteria at bay while preventing infections too due to its antimicrobial properties.

All you have to do is add a few drops on a cotton ball then apply it on your underarms after a shower. You can also make a spray by mixing half a cup of distilled water with a few drops of tree tea oil then transfer it to a spray bottle and use the solution every day.

 Sometimes all it takes is switching your deodorant and improving your beauty regime (Image: Shutterstock)
Switch your deodorant

As I mentioned, deodorant may be your problem. For this reason, identify possible triggers and remove them from your lifestyle and beauty regime.

If you have noticed some irritation, redness and darkening after using a new deodorant, stop use immediately and give your skin a break.

You may want to consider natural deodorants at this point that have little to no chemicals or a hypoallergenic antiperspirant.

Aloe vera

I am yet to find a skin condition aloe Vera cannot treat. Well, that’s just me. A known natural sun screen, this super plant lightens discolored armpits and helps soothe inflamed skin due to its antibacterial properties.

Cut open a fresh leaf and apply the gel directly to your underarm. Leave it on for half an hour until it has completely dried up then wash it off with lukewarm water.

Do this every other day until your skin evens out.

 Potatoes contain acids that will slowly get rid of dark underarms if you stay committed (Image: Shutterstock)
Potatoes

If you’re concerned that lemons may be too harsh on your skin, you’re right especially if you have sensitive skin.

The acid found in potatoes is mild and actually works if you are committed to it. All you have to do is cut them into slices and rub off the juice to the affected area.

Let it stay until it has dried up then rinse off with some warm water.

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