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Post in Bath & Body

Dark underarms

What’s a product that gives 100% results for dark arm pits

Re: Dark underarms

@samnay  I can't say any product will give 100% results, especially since underarm darkness has various causes. It could be genetic, for instance. Or it could be caused by your deodorant/antiperspirant, depending on its ingredients. Or it could be a symptom of an underlying health issue you should have checked by your primary care doctor. Different causes may require different solutions, if a solution exists. 

 

If you're in the US, you can buy AmLactin body lotion over-the-counter. It comes in 12% and 15% lactic acid versions; the 12% is probably best for the delicate underarm area. Lactic acid is an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) that removes dead skin cells from the skin surface, revealing newer skin. Lactic acid's also a good hydrator, and it's gentler than glycolic acid (the "strongest" AHA because it has the smallest molecule size; the smaller the molecule size, the easier an ingredient penetrates skin). Since I'm not a dermatologist, I can't guarantee it'll work for you, or that it won't cause irritation which could worsen your underarm hyperpigmentation. I use AmLactin to reduce hyperpigmentation and bumpy skin elsewhere on my body. If you want to try it, use it just 1-3 times a week, and never twice on the same day. Otherwise you risk over-exfoliating your skin, and that'd be very painful under your arms. 

 

I suppose you could also try something even gentler than lactic acid, like The INKEY List Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) Gentle Exfoliating Toner 3.4 oz/ 100 mL . Again, I can't guarantee this will work. The same 1-3x/wk usage rule applies. 

 

A much pricier option is laser therapy treatment to remove hyperpigmentation. You'll need to ask your primary care doctor about that. 

 

If your armpits weren't always dark—maybe they've just recently gotten darker—then perhaps changing your deodorant or antiperspirant can help. Especially if the product you normally use contains essential oils, since they can irritate the heck out of some people's skin. Baking soda's another common skin irritant. 

 

I'll also say that dark underarms aren't a bad thing unless they're a symptom of a larger untreated/undiagnosed health issue. I get why some folks don't like having dark armpits. I'm just saying they're not as horrible as beauty standards make 'em out to be. 🙂 

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