A dark coloration of your underarm skin isn’t usually a medical condition, or a disease. Instead it can be considered a response to certain elements of exposure. Some of the most common causes of dark underarms are using hair removal creams regularly, excessive sweating, shaving, using alcohol based antiperspirants or deodorants, an accumulation of dead skin cells, as well as poor airing of the underarms.
There are a number of home remedies that are effective, natural, safe, and affordable.
Potato/Cucumber. Potatoes are mildly acidic, and because it’s a mild natural bleaching agent it will not irritate the skin. You can slice the potato and rub thin slices on your underarms. The potato can also be grated, and the juice applied. Either way, allow 15 to 20 minutes for it to dry and then rinse with lukewarm water. Do this twice a day. Cucumbers can be used in the same manner, or the juice can be mixed with lemon juice and a small amount of turmeric powder. This creates a paste that can be applied to the underarm area and left for 30 minutes. Wash off with water.
Lemon. Lemon is a natural bleach, as well as an excellent antiseptic and antibacterial agent. Lemons are used frequently in skin related issues, but it can dry your sky out, so ensure you apply a natural moisturizer after the lemon treatment. Rubbing a lemon wedge on the affected area for a few minutes can help to remove the dead skin cells. For a more effective exfoliator, sprinkle sugar on top of the lemon wedge. Repeat this process a few times a week. Alternatively, add a small amount of turmeric powder and plain yogurt to lemon juice and apply to the area. Wash it off after 10 minutes, and repeat this process at least 3 times a week.
Baking Soda. This makes an excellent base for an exfoliating scrub, it not only unclogs skin pores but also helps remove those pesky dead skin cells.
Mix water with the baking soda to create a paste and then use the paste to scrub the area. Wash, dry thoroughly and repeat at least 3 times a week.
Orange Peel. Leave orange peels in the sun for 3 days and allow them to dry out completely, then grind them into a powder. Mix 2 teaspoons with milk (or rose water) to make a thick paste. Scrub your underarms with it and then leave it for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash the paste off with cold water and repeat the process 3 times a week.
Vinegar. Not only will this lighten the skin, it’s also great at killing the bacteria and germs that feed on the dead skin that cause underarm odor. Mix rice flour in with the vinegar to form a thick paste, apply this paste in a hot shower and leave it to dry for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash it off with warm water, and this can be repeated three times a week.
Coconut Oil. There is Vitamin E in coconut oil, which can help lighten dark underarms. It’s also an excellent deodorant. Rub coconut oil on your underarms and leave for 10 to 15 minutes. Use mild soap and lukewarm water to wash it off, do this three times a week.
