These methods actually work.
With a buzzy area of concern being the underarms.
These days, armpits have become a primary point of discussion.
STocksy
The main topic?How do I brighten my underarms?
Underarm skin is delicate, easily irritated, and prone to irritation that leads tohyperpigmentationAKA discoloration.
Brightening treatments will be ineffective until the inflammation is addressed and controlled.
Avoid Scrubbing
As tempting as it may be, refrain from aggressively scrubbing your underarms.
Physical pressure provides no benefits for treating hyperpigmentation.
In fact, it’s more likely to cause irritation and worsen the problem.
So if you use a physical exfoliant, reach for one that’sgentle.
“Added friction can make the skin stressed, triggering aninflammatory response[and] hyperpigmentation.”
Dr. Love recommends using a moisturizing option.
If you are allergic to nickel, waxing or laser treatments will be betterhair removal options.
Consider Quitting Shaving Altogether
Old habits die hardand for many, shaving is a part of that.
Hair removal is still possible with other methods, likewaxingorlaseringyour underarms.
Because natural deodorants do not limit sweating, they tend to be highly fragranced.
Some people develop allergies to these plant-based fragrances.
These skin allergies typically present with redness and itching.
Others develop irritation and a rash fromexcessive sweat.
However, natural deodorants can cause hyperpigmentation without a rash.
Try Retinol
According to Dr. Hartman,retinolisn’t just for the face.
“I findcoconutandtea tree oilswork the best [for moisturization and to treat discoloration],” he says.
It is important to not let the oil sit there for a long time, though.
Instead, let the oil sit for fifteen minutes and then, rinse off with lukewarm water.
Just remember, these methods will still require multiple procedures to see significant improvement.
Dr. Love advises againstat-home or DIY chemical peelson this area due to skin sensitivity.
But that doesn’t make them particularly safe or effective.
On the opposite end of the pH spectrum, TikTok-favoritebaking sodais so alkaline it can dry the skin out.
Unfortunately, that logic doesn’t pan out.
Rushing results will likely only worsen the problem by causing irritation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
It will take multiple months of regular in-office or at-home treatments to achieve noticeable results.
Take a moment to reset your expectations and reevaluate your current treatment plan.
You’re likely doing too much.
The short answer: yes, underarm discolorationcango away on its own.
But, it depends on the root cause of the discoloration.
1
Pollock S, Taylor S, Oyerinde O, et al.
The dark side of skin lightening: An international collaboration and review of a public health issue affecting dermatology.
International Journal of Womens Dermatology.
2020;7(2):158.
