Dark Underarms? Here’s Why It's More Common Than You Think

Want brighter armpits in time for sleeveless season? Join the club — that is, the four out of five women in Metro Manila who would switch to a deodorant that can help improve the appearance of dark underarms. While striving for dazzling porcelain pits is not a crime, having dark marks and rough skin in this area is also common. Dusky 'pits are not something to be ashamed of, just another thing that you could address – if you like.

One compelling reason dark armpits are not “flaws”? People with duskier skin tones (including morena skin!) who have more melanin are born with them. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, this hyperpigmentation in the underarm area is common yet harmless.

However, it can also develop over time on any skin color because of irritation. Certain practices, such as shaving and waxing, plus friction from tight clothing, can cause the skin to darken. Some deodorants can also irritate the skin and lead to dark marks and even thickening with frequent use.

Hormonal disorders, such as melasma, hormonal birth control, and specific medications, can also influence the color of your armpits. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, on rare occasions, a condition called Acanthosis nigricans can lead to an extreme case of dark, thick skin in this area.

Once you rule out underlying illnesses and are sure that your dark underarms are merely a cosmetic issue, you can start addressing it by making the following changes in your routine.

• Rethink your method of hair removal. All hair removal procedures can trigger irritation, even laser hair removal. However, there are some that you’ll have to do more frequently than others, like shaving, simply because they don’t slow down hair growth. This means irritated skin at least once a week. Waxing is a practical and more affordable middle ground, but it must be done by a professional.

• Shave safely. If shaving is convenient for you, you can take certain measures to minimize the risk of irritation. Always use a fresh, clean razor. Don’t keep them in the shower since they can accumulate bacteria in damp environments. Never shave dry skin; use a shaving cream or gel, or prep your skin with lukewarm water.

• Switch to deodorant with brightening ingredients. Your choice of deodorant matters. Apart from basing it on your preferred scent and formula (roll-on, stick, gel, spray, serum, powder), you might want to check the label, too.

Look for a deodorant that specifically targets dark underarms, such as Dove Aerosol Ultimate Repair Dark Marks Corrector Spray in Fresh Lily or Soothing Jasmine. Either one contains ¼ Dove moisturizing cream, which keeps the skin soft and hydrated while minimizing irritation. In addition, it’s formulated with 10 times more niacinamide (versus the previous formulation), a well-known skin brightener and refiner to repair damaged skin. In a Try and & Review survey, 81% of women who used this agree that it helped reduce dark underarm marks while providing 48 hours of antiperspirant protection.

Dark underarms don’t have to be a permanent problem. If they ruin your vibe, change your hair removal methods and products to address the issue. Just remember that being gentle with yourself is just as important as being gentle with your skin. Keep calm, wear sleeveless, and carry on.