Most of us are bound by the need to wear sleeved clothing because the thought of someone catching a glimpse of your dark underarms is super horrific. This usually leads to esteem issues and a lack of freedom to wear certain clothes such as tank tops, swimsuits, and even sportswear. I’m here to let you know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with your dark underarms.

Dark underarms are caused by various reasons such as shaving, deodorants, excessive sweating, improper ventilation, medical conditions such as diabetes, and genetics which have also been linked to dark armpits. This, therefore, makes lightening dark armpits achievable naturally through a few remedies. So if you are tired of hiding under those long-sleeved clothes, here are a few tips for you.

Home remedies;

1. Lemon juice

Lemon contains antibacterial and antiseptic properties; therefore, it acts as a natural bleaching agent. It also acts as an exfoliant and helps remove the dead skin cells accumulated over time.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is considered one of the most effective remedies for skin lightening. This is because it contains a chemical known as curcumin, an antioxidant that helps lighten the skin.

3. Tomato juice

Just like lemon, tomato juice also contains bleaching properties that naturally help reduce discoloration. Tomato also has the added advantage of lowering sweat, one of the leading causes of dark armpits.

4. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an excellent cure for dark underarms. It has anti-microbial properties that help remove foul odor, therefore, leaving your underarms odor-free.

5. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has a rich content of amino and lactic acids that helps clear dead skin cells and lessen scars. This also helps unclog pores and reduce skin darkness. You can use this daily for effective results.

Other remedies;

6. Change your deodorant to a Hypoallergenic one

 Deodorants usually contain a lot of fragrance since they do not limit sweating. Some people develop allergies from this and end up having itchiness or rashes, which later on cause hyperpigmentation. Deodorants also contain sodium bicarbonate which has been linked to hyperpigmentation.

Therefore, consider switching to a hypoallergenic antiperspirant or opting for natural remedies such as baking soda or apple cider vinegar. You could also choose to quit deodorants as well.

7. Advance your shaving technique

Shaving without a shaving cream can be irritating to the skin. This irritation can cause darkness over time. Therefore try as much you can to use shaving cream and also replace your blades frequently. You could also switch to other alternatives like waxing or laser hair removal.

8. Use exfoliants

Use a combination of chemical and physical exfoliators to exfoliate at least three times a week. Something to note is physical pressure does not treat hyperpigmentation; therefore, avoid scrubbing your armpits. Acids such as lactic, glycolic, and salicylic are some effective ingredients here.

9. See your dermatologist

If you try all the above remedies and they fail, or the progress gets too slow, opt to visit your dermatologist. Since this area is sensitive, a lot of trial and error is not recommended. Therefore professional advice may be beneficial.

10. Reduce your expectations

The skin on your underarms is super delicate; therefore, there’s no quick way to fix the problem. Trying too many things may lead to irritation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This will worsen the situation and make treatment more difficult therefore lower your expectations and try to accept your underarms as they or accept the little progress going on.