To lighten dark armpits, you can try a combination of lifestyle changes, natural remedies, and professional treatments:
Lifestyle and Basic Care
- Switch deodorants: Use natural deodorants or alternatives like baking soda or apple cider vinegar to avoid irritation from chemical-laden products.
- Avoid shaving: Shaving can cause darkening due to irritation; waxing or laser hair removal are better options.
- Exfoliate gently: Use a mild exfoliant 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells, which can contribute to darkness.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing: This reduces friction and irritation.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen skin discoloration
Natural Remedies
- Potato juice: Grate a potato, extract the juice, apply to underarms for 10 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
- Lemon slices or juice: Rub lemon slices on underarms for 10 minutes, rinse with cool water, and moisturize afterward. Lemon’s citric acid helps exfoliate and lighten skin.
- Turmeric and lemon paste: Mix lemon juice with turmeric, apply for 30 minutes, then wash off.
- Coconut oil: Massage a few drops onto underarms, leave for 15 minutes, then wash off. Repeat 2-3 times weekly.
- Tea tree oil spray: Mix 5 drops with water, spray daily after showering.
- Milk, rose water, and orange peel paste: Scrub and leave on for 15 minutes before rinsing.
- Baking soda and rose water paste: Apply for 5 minutes then rinse
Medical and Professional Treatments
- Laser hair removal: This not only removes hair permanently but also targets excess melanin, reducing dark pigmentation over several sessions.
- Waxing: Removes hair and exfoliates the skin’s top layer, helping lighten dark areas.
- Topical creams: Prescribed creams containing niacinamide, retinol, kojic acid, or hydroquinone can be effective if home remedies fail
Additional Tips
- Avoid over-exfoliation to prevent irritation.
- Moisturize after treatments, especially when using lemon or other acidic substances.
- Consult a dermatologist before starting treatments, especially for persistent or severe discoloration
These approaches, combined with patience and consistent care, can help lighten dark underarms effectively.
