Why do armpits get dark

When these cells multiply more, they can turn the skin a darker color. Anyone can develop AN, but some people have a greater risk. People who have darker skin are more likely to have darkening under their arms than people with lighter skin.

AN sometimes runs in families. You inherit it via a faulty gene. To avoid irritating your underarms, lubricate the skin with a gentle soap or shaving cream before shaving. Apply an unscented moisturizing cream afterward.

Carrying extra weight makes your body more resistant to the effects of insulin. This hormone helps regulate your blood sugar. High levels of insulin in your blood can lead to increased production of skin pigment cells. More than half of adults who are percent or more over their ideal body weight experience darkening in their underarms and other skin folds. Obesity is also a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, a disease of high blood sugar.

People who develop type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of AN. In rare cases , sudden skin darkening could be a sign of cancer.

When this happens, it often affects the stomach, liver, or colon. These tumors increase levels of growth factors that stimulate skin pigment cells. Often, treating the medical condition that caused your dark underarms will fix the issue. A combination of medicines and home remedies could help lighten the color. Obesity is one of the leading causes of dark underarms.

Losing weight can often fix the problem. Weight loss is an effective way to treat diabetes, too. Talk to your doctor about diet and fitness strategies to help you get down to a healthy weight for your height.

Talk to your doctor or dermatologist before using any natural remedy. Deodorants and antiperspirants have ingredients that can irritate the skin, and any inflammation can lead to a thickening — and darkening — of the skin over time. Another source of irritation: your razor. Shaving, especially on dry skin or with a dull blade, can cause the skin to darken and thicken over time. How can you get rid of darkness under your arms? While both of the dermatologists we spoke to do recommend natural home remedies to even out the skin under the arms, they both urge patients to be cautious about the ingredients that you use.

The biggest DIY mistake both professionals see is over-exfoliating. While scrubbing with raw sugar might seem like a good idea, it'll only further irritate the area, which will cause more thickening if you do it excessively. Solomon also advises staying away from harsh, in-store scrubs that have sharp-edged particles, which could cause micro-abrasions.

Instead, she recommends an at-home chemical exfoliation twice a week. You want to mix citrus with gentle ingredients to balance its potency; when used alone it can aggravate sensitive skin and make the area more sensitive to the sun. Solomon also recommends a mask of cucumber and aloe vera to nourish the layers of thickened skin.

If you're not noticing any changes within days, Dr. Solomon suggests seeing a dermatologist to determine if you need a stronger treatment that can't be found in your refrigerator, like a topical retinol cream or a professional peel. How can I prevent dark armpits? When it comes to preventative measures, it's all about avoiding irritation.

It's important to treat the skin under your arms similar to how you'd treat the skin on your face. So, if you have sensitive skin in the armpit area, look for natural deodorants without fragrances, aluminum, and alcohols. There is little, if any, scientific research to support these claims.

Some of these home remedies may cause side effects. Lemon juice, for example, may dry out or irritate the skin. It is best to talk to a doctor or dermatologist before using any home remedies for dark underarms. Prescription creams, ointments, and gels are available to lighten the skin under the arms. These products include:. Many dermatologists recommend topical creams and antibiotics as they can reduce skin discoloration and improve the appearance of the underarms.

However, it is worth noting that the manufacturers of these products did not design them specifically for AN. For AN that is severe or does not respond to topical treatments, a dermatologist may prescribe retinoid pills. Retinoid pills also treat acne , psoriasis , and other skin conditions. Retinoid drugs can cause several side effects and are not suitable for pregnant women.

People considering these medications for AN should discuss the advantages and disadvantages with their dermatologist before using them. Laser therapy can reduce the skin thickness that often occurs alongside skin darkening. Reducing the thickness of the skin may make it appear lighter in color. It is not always possible to prevent AN, but some ways to reduce the risk of developing dark underarms include:. AN is not generally a cause for concern.

However, people with dark underarms should see their doctor as skin darkening may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires attention. Treating the underlying condition often resolves the symptoms and lightens the skin. If that does not work, or if an underlying condition is not causing AN, a doctor or dermatologist can recommend home remedies, medications, and therapies.

As a person ages, their skin naturally becomes thinner, less elastic, or papery.