Underarm discoloration is an embarrassing skin issue that can cause anyone to be afraid of wearing sleeveless tops, bathing suits or other articles of clothing that expose this area. Many people, especially women, are so ashamed of their condition that they refuse to do any activity that causes them to lift up their arms. But there are ways to treat underarm discoloration so you’ll never have to avoid waving or slapping somebody a high-five.

Underarm discoloration can be caused by a number of factors: irritation from ingredients in the type of deodorant or antiperspirant you use, existing skin conditions like eczema, or skin friction that can occur from certain activities like shaving. While women of African and Hispanic descent are the most likely to suffer from this issue, just about anyone regardless of ethnicity can be a target for underarm discoloration. The underarm area is one that isn’t exposed to the sun on a daily basis like the rest of the body. This could be a contributing factor to why that particular area of skin is the most common for discoloration.

If you have sensitive skin, be careful with the methods of treatment you use to get rid of your underarm discoloration. Within the past few years, there have been numerous skin care products available on the market that claim to balance skin tone and correct discoloration. Special antiperspirants and deodorant have also been designed to keep your underarms fresh without causing further discoloration to the area. Some even use ingredients that can brighten up the underarm area such as kojic dipalmitate and aluminum zirconium tetra chlorohydrex glycine. Talk to your doctor beforehand to make sure you choose a product that contains the right ingredients for your skin type.

Skin bleaching and other skin lightening treatments are also popular methods for underarm discoloration. Bleaching and lightening products are available over-the-counter or prescribed by your doctor. By blocking the melanin responsible for the dark pigments, bleaching products gradually lighten and brighten the area. It can take weeks and even as long as a year to see visible results when using these kinds of products so if you plan on going down this route don’t expect overnight results. Sometimes the degree of discoloration can prevent bleaching and lightening agents from working. Genetics can also play a part in the cause of underarm discoloration. In these instances, seeking treatment from a doctor or dermatologist may be the best way to find a solution.

More extreme methods include the use of chemical peels using Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs). Doing a chemical peel on the underarm area literally peels away the layers of dark skin, revealing brighter and newer skin cells. Because AHAs and BHAs are very potent, this treatment should only be performed by a licensed esthetician.

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