How to Lighten Dark Underarms & Dark Spots on Your Underarms

6 Steps to Reducing Hyperpigmentation Under Your Arms

Dark spots on the underarms can be an embarrassing and distressing issue for many individuals. Whether it's due to shaving, friction, dead skin cells, or hyperpigmentation, dealing with dark underarms can affect one's self-confidence and self-esteem. However, the good news is that there are effective ways to lighten these dark spots and achieve smoother, more even-toned underarms.

In this article, we will walk you through six essential steps to help you treat your dark underarms, reclaim confidence and embrace your beautiful skin. But first…

Prevalence of Dark Underarms Among People-of-Color

Dark underarms are a common issue that affects people of all skin tones, but it can be especially prevalent among people-of-color. Due to having higher levels of melanin, individuals with darker skin are more prone to hyperpigmentation, which can lead to darker underarms. Additionally, certain hair removal methods, such as shaving, can cause irritation and ingrown hairs more frequently in people with curly hair, further contributing to dark spots.

Addressing dark underarms in those with skin-of-color requires a delicate approach to avoid skin irritation. It's essential to use gentle exfoliants, avoid harsh hair removal methods, and opt for products specifically designed for sensitive skin.

Watch Out! Some try lemon juice, to remove dark spots in the under arm area. However, we advise caution in using lemon juice and certain other natural remedies because lemon juice (and similar ingredients) can cause skin irritation, which can lead to further darkening of the underarm area.

Removing, reducing, and lightening dark spots on your underarms is achievable with the right approach and consistent effort. By following these six steps and being mindful of the needs of your skin, you can achieve the changes you want in your underarm area.

Remember, it's crucial to be patient, as results may take time, but with determination, you can achieve the desired outcome and proudly show off your underarms.

SURPRISE! Your Dark Spots Could Be Caused By This.

Step 1: Exfoliation is Key

Regular exfoliation is crucial to remove hyperpigmentation in the underarm area. We recommend a gentle chemical exfoliant that will slough off dead skin cells, and unclog pores, which can contribute to darkening in the underarm area. Chemical exfoliants do the exfoliating for you, as opposed to manual exfoliation methods. (See next paragraph.) Chemical exfoliant in serums and creams will break the bonds between skin cells so that the dead cells come off with rinsing.

Chemical exfoliants include Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid , lactic acid, and citric acid, as well as Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid.

Alpha Hydroxy acids act on the top most layer of the skin, and have been shown to be very effective on old and thickened skin.

Beta hydroxy acids are oil soluble, which allows them to penetrate the skin’s oil-filled pores and remove the dead skin cells that are inside the pores.

Watch Out! We do not suggest you use physical exfoliation techniques because those will create tears in your skin, which often lead to further skin darkening and scarring. Physical exfoliation is about manually removing skin cells from the surface of your skin. This includes rubbing with cloths, brushes, sponges, loofahs, hard rubber, or scrubs which contain abrasive particles.

• Follow the directions on the package. For best results, we suggest you apply the exfoliant twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening.
• To apply serums or cream, simply gently rub the product into the affected area under your arms.
• Do not scrub your underarm aggressively during showering/bathing.

RECOMMENDATION: To help you remove, reduce, and lighten the dark areas & spots on your underarm area, we suggest our Dark Spots Eliminator™ Super Serum best seller. This product is specially made for sensitive skin-of-color. Dark Spots Eliminator™ Super Serum’s proprietary formula contains:

• Niacinamide – fades dark spots
• Pro-Vitamin B5 – anti-inflammatory, skin protecting, moisturizing (see step 7 below)
• Alpha-Arbutin – reduces dark spots
• Retinol – makes skin healthier, less wrinkled, smoother
• Gotu Kola – anti-inflammatory
• Vitamin E – antioxidant, provides photoprotection against UVB rays
• Citric Acid – AHA (see step 1 above)
• Hyaluronic Acid – helps lock in moisture (see step 7 below)
• Caprylhydroxamic Acid – anti-fungal and anti-bacterial

Step 2: Avoid Harsh Hair Removal Methods

Shave your underarms with a shaving cream or gel so that you lessen skin trauma (irritation, bumps, ingrown hairs, friction, or abrasions). Shaving your underarms “dry” or with water only will likely cause skin trauma which will lead to more darkening of the skin in the area.

Replace your razor frequently so that you’re always shaving with a sharp blade. A sharp blade will help prevent pulling and irritation of your skin. Apply the serum recommended below to your underarm after you shave and after your armpit has dried.

Watch Out! Using depilatory creams can cause irritation and darken the skin in the underarm area.

Consider alternative hair removal methods like laser hair removal (at a facility and with equipment that specializes in skin-of-color), which may be gentler on the skin and lead to reduced dark spots over time.

RECOMMENDATION: To help soothed skin after you shave, and reduce ingrown hairs & hyperpigmentation on your underarm area, we suggest our No Bumps, Ingrown Hairs, Discoloration™ Skin Serum best seller. You will feel and see a dramatic difference with consistent use. This product is specially made for sensitive skin-of-color. Note: Apply a very thin layer to your underarm. Allow the serum to dry after application. You do not need to heavily apply this serum under your arms. Less is more.   No Bumps, Ingrown Hairs, Discoloration™ Skin Serum’s proprietary formula contains:

• Salicylic Acid (BHA) – exfoliates, anti-inflammatory, soothing (see step 1 above)
• Vitamin C – skin brightener, antioxidant, collagen booster
• Adenosine – heals, anti-inflammatory
• Vitamin E – antioxidant, provides photoprotection against UVB rays
• Citric Acid – AHA (see step 1 above)

Step 3: Invest in Underarm-Friendly Products

• Use mild, alcohol-free deodorants and antiperspirants to minimize irritation and unnatural skin darkening.
• Look for products with ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera to soothe the skin.

WE RECOMMEND YOU USE BOTH OUR Dark Spots Eliminator™ Super Serum and No Bumps, Ingrown Hairs, Discoloration™ Skin Serum because they work very well together to lighten Dark Underarms.

Step 4: Moisturize Regularly

• Hydrated skin is less prone to irritation and unnatural skin darkening.
• Apply a moisturizer specifically formulated for sensitive skin to your underarms daily.

Step 5: Wear Breathable Fabrics

• Tight and non-breathable fabrics can lead to friction, which may worsen dark spots.
• Opt for loose, cotton-based clothing to allow your underarms to breathe.

Step 6: Limit Sun Exposure

• UV rays can exacerbate hyperpigmentation and further darken your underarms.
• When going out in the sun, wear clothing that covers your underarms and use sunscreen.

The Bottom-Line on Dark Underarms

• Lightening dark spots on the underarms takes time and consistent effort.
• Stick to your routine and give your chosen methods enough time to show results.

And, always Love Your Brown Skin®