Unless they’re causing discomfort, discolored or “dark armpits” aren’t something you should necessarily worry about. It could just be hyperpigmentation or your natural skin. However, a few real conditions present with underarm discoloration, and yes, these could lead to irritation. So, let’s cover them and talk about options for resolving this. 

 

Armpit eczema

Do you find yourself scratching your armpits, and when you do there are dead skin cells underneath your fingernails? Are there discolored, velvety, or oozing patches underneath your armpits? Maybe it feels hot too. This could be armpit eczema. 

 

Armpit eczema is different than atopic dermatitis, which is a chronic skin condition driven by an impaired skin barrier. Armpit skin is very thin and sensitive.“ Eczema occurring in the armpit area often results from contact dermatitis, which comes from

irritation or allergic reactions, saysDanilo Del Campo, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago, IL. 

 

And unfortunately, there are a variety of substances in your everyday deodorant that could cause this. In combination with the armpits being a sensitive area,there is an increased vulnerability for eczema itch, rashes, dryness, and hyperpigmentation.

 

Here are a few ingredients to look out for in deodorants that are more associated with contact dermatitis: 

 

1. Essential oils and fragrances

Essential oils and fragrances are normally very unstable, meaning they break down easily, and many of them release scent through a reaction. This instability leads to irritation on the skin. So, finding a fragrance-free deodorant could be especially helpful. Irritation can also result in odor because it can change the natural composition of bacteria in your armpit. Irritation can cause melanocytes to be overactive and produce more pigment, and this can lead to discoloration.

 

2. Propylene glycol

Although this a known as a weak irritant, because it is a humectant it can dry the armpit out cause irritation. Yes, humectants are supposed to retain moisture but they can pull moisture from the lower layers of the skin, making it evaporate. 

Thus, the skin becomes dry contributing to eczema itch. Humectants are not bad though. Hyaluronic acid is also a humectant and yes it can irritate some skin types. However, it is made naturally by the skin.

3. Talc

Sometimes, talc does not allow the skin to exfoliate properly, and when dead skin cells build up, this can lead to irritation and hyperpigmentation. 

 

4. Baking soda

Baking soda is often used as an alternative to aluminum, but it can be really irritating and drying.

 

Chafed skin, sweat, and friction

Did you know that the skin rubbing against itself and any abrasive action like shaving can exacerbate eczema under the arms? Repeated rubbing can cause more pigment production too. Sweat is another factor as well.“Skin irritation can occur with prolonged sweat exposure, prompting flare-ups.” Del Camp says.

 

For some skin types, the inorganic salts within sweat can trigger a response in the brain that activates itchiness. This response can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and lead to dark marks.

 

Acanthosis Nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans is less common, and scientists say that it is caused by too much insulin in the blood. Because of elevated insulin levels, too much keratin (type of skin cells) is produced as well. And it is actually the thick layer of keratin causing the discoloration, not the skin producing too much pigment (hyperpigmentation). Read more here.

 

What helps dark armpits?

If your armpits are discolored because of contact dermatitis, you won’t want to use strong actives like salicylic acid, vitamin C, or a retinoid. You’ll want to find a sensitive-skin-friendly deodorant and hydrate. If you prefer, you can even use an antibacterial spray instead of a deodorant. 

If it is simply natural pigmentation, then, you can rely on the aforementioned ingredients. You can also visit your dermatologist to see if sweat irritates your armpit area, and if you suspect so, it may be helpful to stick with antiperspirant, which reduces sweat in the armpit. 

 

Secret Outlast Dry Spray Antiperspirant Deodorant for Women - $6.99

Hypochlorous spray 

Undefined Beauty R&R Repair Mist Hypochlorous Acid Spray  -$17.99

Hypochlorous spray can help reduce odor and mitigate some of the compounds sweat produces. It also has an anti-bacterial effect. Hypochlorous spray is known to support acne-prone or eczema-prone skin as well! 

Hume Plant & Probiotic Based Deodorant Fragrance-Free Stick (2 oz) - $13.99

This is a baking soda-free deodorant brand that Cassandra likes. This one is also fragrance-free!

 

Cover photo cred: Adobe Stock. istock photos. Getty Images. Creator: Love portrait and love