If the skin under your arms is exceptionally dark and creating a sense of embarrassment or discomfort, know that you can take simple steps to help lighten the pigmentation.
01 .
If the darkness is caused by thick, coarse hair under the surface of the area, the first thing you need to do is stop taking oral contraceptives as well as stop shaving or using hair removal creams. Consider electrolysis or laser hair removal for a long-term, permanent solution, or switch to waxing. Waxing removes the hair from the very root which instantaneously decreases coloration and creates a cleaner, smoother appearance. It also helps to remove dead skin cells that may be darkened from sweat or friction, revealing lighter, newer cells underneath. This can also be achieved through exfoliating with scrubbing washes. Choose one made for sensitive skin such as Nivea or St. Ives. This is a less extreme method of removing dead cells than waxing, but it will similarly removed damaged, darkened dermal cells. (Source:How to deal with Dark Underarms)
02 .
For a natural home remedy you can start by simply applying lemon juice to the armpits daily. This citrus fruit has bleaching properties, and it will cause the pigmentation to decrease over time. Apply daily before bathing then apply moisturizer after to ensure skin stays soft and smooth. If you are sensitive or have dry patches in this area, instead try potatoes or cucumbers, both of which also provide bleaching qualities. Rub the affected area with the wet flesh of the vegetable and allow the juice to dry on the skin, washing after 15 minutes.
03 .
For a more powerful bleaching treatment mix a handful of gram flour, yogurt, turmeric and lemon juice that can be applied directly to the armpits, allowing to saturate for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing clean. The yogurt helps to moisturize and soften the dermis as lemon juice can be harsh, especially on sensitive skin. You can also try a clay-based facial mask purchased at the store for the armpit areas as well. (Source:http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/whats-lumps-my-underarm-area)
04 .
Another amazing natural product you can use at home is saffron. Mix a pinch of saffron with whole milk or heavy cream for a paste that can remain on the underarm overnight. The saffron not only lightens the area, it has antibacterial properties that remove germs that cause bacteria.
05 .
To not only decrease the pigmentation of the skin but also improve the smoothness and vibrancy of the area, try a sandalwood and rosewater mixture. A daily application of this mixture made into a paste will brighten and whiten the armpit as well as cool and soothe the dermis, leaving it softer and more radiant.
06 .
Keep in mind that for all of these remedies you should also discontinue use of deodorant for a few days to allow the area to settle. You can instead switch to a natural remedy of baking soda and water splashed onto the underarm or fungal powders and alum designed for athlete’s foot or other fungal infections. Once the lightening effects have taken place from the natural remedies you can go back to deodorant, but use a specialized whitening product or one for sensitive skin.
