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5 kitchen ingredients that lighten dark arm pits

DIY Fixes and Tips

Are you terrified of lifting your arms or wearing sleeveless tops because of your dark armpits? Sadly, many women suffer from this issue that can seriously affect your self-esteem and confidence if not checked. But thank God there is a good ending to the story.

Before hitting the road, let’s understand what causes dark under arms. While reasons vary, the most common causes include regular use of chemical laden hair removing creams, shaving, excessive sweating, poor ventilation in the underarm region, accumulation of dead skin cells and use of harsh alcohol based deodorants and antiperspirants.

With that said, no need to loosen your purse strings on a dermatologist while you can effectively cure the discoloration at home. In no order of strength, use any of these tried and tested kitchen ingredients for great results.

Lemon

When it comes to bleaching lemons take the cake. With incredible antibacterial, antiseptic and acidic properties that help exfoliate the dead skin cells, this causes a lightening reaction. If you have very sensitive skin take note that this may not be your cup of coffee.

How To:

Slice a lemon and rub it on your armpits. Let it stay for 5-10 minutes then wash it off. Alternatively, you can add sugar, turmeric, honey or plain yoghurt to the lemon slice and rub.

Potatoes

Containing malic acid it is a great natural bleaching agent that works on every skin type. To add to that, it has starch that has emollient properties that help smooth and soften the skin.

How To:

Peel and thinly slice a potato then rub it on your armpits. Alternatively, you can grate the potato and apply the juice on the affected area. Leave for 15-30 minutes then rinse.

Cucumber

This has bleaching properties like potatoes which comes with an added soothing sensation.

How To:

Thinly slice a cucumber and rub it. Another option is to use the juice, mix it with turmeric and lemon. Apply. Leave it on for 30 minutes then rinse.

Baking soda

This kitchen must have, serves so many purposes the list is endless. Better yet it easily available and cheap. Not only does it unclog pores, it helps with body odor.

How To:

Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water to make a paste and apply. In place of water you can also use milk or lemon to make a paste and apply. Leave it on for 10 minutes. Rinse.

Milk

With a plethora of vitamins and fatty acids, milk softens the skin, tones the skin and minimizes darkening.

How To:

Pour 3 tablespoons of milk in a cup, soak a cotton ball and apply. You can also make a thick paste by adding plain yoghurt and flour. Mix well and apply. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse.

Repeat any of these three times a week for amazing results. After rinsing always apply a natural oil to moisturize.

For long lasting results refrain from any chemical based products that will cause irritation and darkening.

 

PHOTOS: COURTESY

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