The Benefits of Using Omega-6 on Underarm Skin

Just like the skin on your face or the rest of your body, underarm skin thrives with a proper regimen that addresses its needs. Being very sensitive to irritants such as friction, harsh chemicals, and even your own lingering sweat, this area can develop rashes and other skin issues quite easily. Ingredients like omega-6 would be an excellent addition to your underarm care arsenal – which should really be all about skin care at the end of the day. Here’s why.

Omega-6 is a fatty acid essential to human health. However, the body doesn’t make its own – you get it through food (usually from plant oils and seeds) or apply it topically as an emollient or emulsifier. In skincare products, it is a moisturizing treatment that softens and smooths the skin, and can help address dryness and itching. It calms redness, eliminates flaking, and strengthens the skin’s surface.

Using deodorant is not enough if you want to keep your underarms smooth and even-toned. Products that double as skin care can give your regimen the boost it needs to get better results. Using a deodorant with omega-6 can help make your armpits look smoother and address extra issues (the occasional pimple, perhaps?).

Dove Radiant + Care 3% Niacinamide + 10x Omega-6 Pore Smoothener 40ml Dry Serum combines the power of niacinamide and omega 6 to address underarm pores and chicken skin. Also known as keratosis pilaris, chicken skin is a common condition wherein keratin builds up in the hair follicles, resulting in a rough and bumpy texture. Shaving and waxing can also result in chicken skin. The omega-6 in this deodorant can help reduce inflammation and minimize roughness, while niacinamide further refines the pores and boosts hydration.

Having smooth underarm skin is not the norm. Most people do have skin texture and that’s okay. But if your armpits are keeping you from living your best life, you can address your concerns with an underarm care routine and some lifestyle adjustments. 

If you want smooth underarms, start in the shower. Considering how much deodorant you apply on your ‘pits (and how much moisture accumulates in these areas), it makes sense to give each of them a good 30-60 seconds of cleansing. Use soap or body wash to gently remove dirt and germs, then rinse thoroughly. Try patting instead of rubbing them dry to minimize your risk of irritation, which can result in rough skin.

Once a week, you can use a body scrub or loofah to gently exfoliate your underarms. Make sure to do this before you shave or wax – never after. This can help remove dead skin cells and loosen any ingrown hairs, which will make removing them much easier. Some people also like to use glycolic acid on their underarms, but consult your doctor before you try it. If you have sensitive skin, this may cause a reaction that can darken your skin.

If you like removing your armpit hairs, go for the method that leaves your skin the least irritated. Laser hair removal works well for most, but it can also be expensive and you’ll need to do a few rounds before seeing results. Professional waxing is more affordable and less irritating than shaving, but if you really must resort to the latter, make sure you use a fresh razor on clean, moist skin. 

Tight clothes rubbing against your armpits can also cause chicken skin. You can protect your skin with an anti-chafing balm or avoid clingy materials altogether. If you love working out, change out of your sweaty clothes immediately. These harbor germs and bacteria (not to mention sweat and oils) that can irritate your skin or cause breakouts.

If you already have chicken skin or any kind of underarm texture, sometimes it’s best to leave it alone and allow nature to take its course. Over-treating your ‘pits with exfoliants can cause further damage and do more harm than good. Stick to nourishing ingredients like niacinamide and omega-6 to strengthen your skin and keep it moisturized. If in doubt, consult your dermatologist. And if they say it will go on its own, leave it alone.