Whitening dark underarms is a task that many people endure to avoid the public embarrassment of unwanted, darkened skin under the arms. The whitening process is a difficult one, because there are many factors that contribute to dark underarms. This condition can be caused by deodorants, shaving, hormones, weight gain, and friction. There are many different techniques that may alleviate it, but, in the end, if the cause is not eliminated, dark underarms will return. Techniques to whiten underarms usually include procedures to remove dark skin cells, or brighten the darkened skin.
Using ingredients that lighten or bleach underarm skin is one way to alleviate dark underarms. Known, natural whitening ingredients include vitamin C, kjoic acid, and papaya extract. Those seeking solutions should look for products, like deodorants and scrubs, that have these ingredients to whiten underarms.
Dark armpits are often caused by damage, done to underarm skin because shaving does not remove hair from the root. This can make the hair root visible under the skin. Underarm skin is also more susceptible to damage from shaving because it is some of the thinnest skin on the human body. With every shave, tiny abrasions are created on underarm skin and these can contribute to skin darkening.
Waxing the area may eliminate darkness caused by shaving, because it removes hair by the root. Another alternative to shaving that can whiten underarms is laser hair removal. Despite its higher cost, laser removal is permanent and typically does not damage skin, so it can maintain whiter underarms in the long term.
Exfoliating underarm skin can also help to whiten underarms because it removes the surface layer of skin that may be contributing to the dark appearance. There are a couple of methods that can be used to exfoliate underarms, including scrubs and peels. Scrubs use a mechanical exfoliate, like sugar or apricot kernels, along with a moisturizing cleanser to remove dead skin cells. Peels are usually offered by dermatologists or skin professionals, but are also available for home use. Peeling is a process by which a chemical is used to remove, or peel off, the dark, surface skin cells, and is often followed up with bleaching.
Once underarms are whitened, proper care is essential or the condition may return. Using water and shaving cream or lotion while shaving armpits is important to help reduce skin damage. Weekly exfoliation is also key to continue to remove dead skin cells. Since too any dead cells can contribute to dry skin, moisturizing is also an important, and often neglected, part of maintaining under arm skin. In most cases, maintaining proper skin moisture keeps skin healthy, and can help keep it looking bright.
