Who else has a closet full of gorgeous sleeveless tops and swimsuits they’re dying to wear, but a little something is holding them back? We’re talking about those pesky dark underarms.
It’s a super common and normal thing, often caused by daily habits like shaving, a reaction to some deodorants, or just a build-up of old, tired skin cells.
While it’s not a health crisis, it can knock your confidence down a peg when you’re trying to feel fabulous and free in your favorite summer styles.
But guess what? You don’t have to let it! We’ve gathered up the six best natural remedies to get rid of dark underarms that you can whip up right in your kitchen.
Get ready to banish those worries and get your underarms looking smooth, bright, and ready for their big debut!
What Causes Dark Underarms?
Understanding the cause is the first step toward finding a solution. The darkening is often a result of an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Common reasons include:
- Friction and Irritation: This is one of the most frequent culprits. Repetitive friction from tight-fitting clothing, frequent shaving, or aggressive scrubbing can irritate the skin, leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Dead Skin Cell Buildup: If the underarm area isn’t properly exfoliated, a buildup of dead skin cells can make the skin appear dull and darker than the surrounding area.
- Acanthosis Nigricans (AN): This is a medical condition characterized by dark, thick, velvety patches of skin, often found in the armpits, groin, and neck. While it can occur on its own, it’s often a sign of an underlying medical condition like insulin resistance, prediabetes, or hormonal disorders.
- Deodorants and Antiperspirants: Certain ingredients in some deodorants, particularly alcohol and fragrances, can cause an allergic reaction or irritation over time, leading to darkened skin.
- Genetics: In some cases, a predisposition to darker underarms simply runs in the family.
#1 Natural remedy: Aloe vera gel
Source: unknown
Aloe vera contains a lot of vitamins C, E, and A, so it can effectively get rid of dark underarms.
Ingredients required:
- 1 fresh aloe vera leaf.
- 1 bottle to contain aloe vera gel.
Then, follow these steps to finalize the remedy:
- Extract the gel from the freshly cut aloe vera leaf.
- Massage the aloe vera gel for a few minutes after applying it to your underarms.
- Give it about 20 minutes to dry. Use water to wash it off.
Note: This can be done every day.
#2 Natural remedy: Fullers earth pack
Source: unknown
Ingredients required:
- 2 tablespoons of Fuller’s earth powder
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of milk
Then, follow these steps to finalize the remedy:
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to a bowl containing 2 teaspoons of fuller’s earth powder.
- To create a fine paste, combine it with 1 teaspoon of milk and stir thoroughly.
- Apply this paste to your underarms, then wait 15 minutes for it to dry.
- Use water to wash it off.
Note: This can be done three times per week.
#3 Natural remedy: Papaya pack
Source: unknown
Ingredients required:
- 3-4 pieces of papaya.
- 1 tablespoon of orange peel powder.
Then, follow these steps to finalize the remedy:
- Grind 3 to 4 papaya pieces into a fine paste in the mixer.
- To this paste, add 1 tablespoon of orange peel powder, and well combine.
- Apply this paste to the underarms, then wait 10 minutes for it to dry.
- Clean with warm water and a gentle towel.
Note: This can be done every day.
#4 Natural remedy: Turmeric pack
Source: unknown
Ingredients required:
- 2 tablespoons of gram flour,
- ½ tablespoon of turmeric.
- 1 tablespoon of curd.
Then, follow these steps to finalize the remedy:
- In a bowl, combine 12 tablespoon of turmeric and 2 tablespoons of gram flour. Mix well after adding 1 tablespoon of curd to the mixture.
- Apply this pack to the underarms, then wait 10 to 15 minutes for it to dry.
- Wash in cold water.
Note: This can be done every day.
#5 Natural remedy: Lemon honey scrub
Source: unknown
Ingredients required:
- 2 tablespoons of red lentil powder.
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
- Few drops of honey.
Then, follow these steps to finalize the remedy:
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to a bowl containing 2 teaspoons of red lentil powder.
- Mix thoroughly after adding a few drops of honey to the mixture.
- Rub the exfoliating scrub for three to five minutes over your underarms. Give it 10 minutes to dry.
- Wash it with water.
Note: This can be done twice a week.
#6 Natural remedy: Potato juice
Source: unknown
Ingredients required:
- 1 medium potato.
- Few drops of rosewater.
Then, follow these steps to finalize the remedy:
- Grate a medium-sized potato.
- Add a few drops of rose water to the mixer along with the grated potato. Mix it thoroughly.
- Get the juice by straining the mixture.
- Apply this juice to your armpits, then wait 15 to 20 minutes for it to dry.
- Use warm water to wash it.
Note: This can be done three times per week.
Important Precautions & Tips to Remember
While DIY remedies can be effective, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines to avoid further irritation and achieve the best results:
- Patch Test Everything: Always, without exception, apply a small amount of any new remedy to a discreet area of your skin and wait 24 hours to check for any redness, itching, or irritation.
- Be Gentle: Avoid harsh scrubbing or rubbing, which can worsen hyperpigmentation. Pat the area dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing.
- Moisturize Daily: Keep your underarms hydrated with a fragrance-free, moisturizing cream. This helps to soothe the skin and maintain its barrier function.
- Re-evaluate Your Routine: Consider switching to a gentler hair removal method like waxing or laser hair removal instead of shaving. Also, look for deodorants and antiperspirants that are fragrance-free and alcohol-free.
- Consult a Professional: If the darkening is sudden, widespread, or accompanied by thick, velvety patches (Acanthosis Nigricans), it is highly recommended to consult a doctor or dermatologist.