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Oh, the plight of dark underarms! Only those who have dealt with them truly understand how they can turn the simplest wardrobe choice into an awkward debate. Sleeveless tops? Cute summer dresses? Forget it.
But hey, if it helps to know, dark underarms are incredibly common, especially for people of color, and unless there’s an underlying issue or funky smell tagging along, there’s really no need to stress. (Spoiler alert: I’ve got solutions!)
But why do underarms get dark in the first place?
Well, blame it on friction from clothes, hair removal methods like shaving, or even dead skin buildup.
Hormonal changes and certain deodorants can also play their part.
The good news? With a little effort, those pesky dark patches can be a thing of the past.
Keep reading for all the tips to lighten dark underarms fast!
1. Switch to AHA/BHA Body Lotions
There are body lotions that smell great, and then there are lotions that actually do something for your skin. AHA/BHA lotions are just that!
These beauties gently exfoliate dead skin cells that can cause the underarms to look darker. Look out for lotions with skin-loving ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid.
But remember, always slather on SPF if your underarms will be exposed to the sun. Acid and sunlight = not friends.
And NEVER apply them after you’ve freshly shaved, waxed, or lasered.
Try: AmLactin, Paula’s Choice BHA Body Treatment, Chemist at Play Underarm Roll-On.
2. Try a Weekly Chemical Peel
Lotions will be your everyday thing. But if you want to target darkness head-on, try something much stronger. A weekly chemical peel can help you tackle tough pigmentation and dullness in those pesky areas. Look for peels formulated with glycolic or mandelic acid for gentle but effective results.
I love my The Ordinary peel for this. Cheap and super effective. You’ll see a difference in 2–4 sessions.
3. Rub on Some Lemon Magic
When life gives you lemons…use them for your underarms! Lemons are loaded with natural bleaching properties to help lighten dark skin. Cut a fresh slice and rub it on your underarms for a minute or two, then let it air dry before wearing your clothes or applying moisturizer.
Do this daily for a week, and I promise you’ll see results. (Okay, I almost guarantee it, but don’t skip a day!) Out of all the DIY remedies I’ve tried for dark underarms (and trust me, there were MANY), this one takes the crown.
4. Bentonite Clay + Apple Cider Vinegar Mask
Oh, if you don’t already know the mind-blowing results of this clay mask for acne, what are you even doing?
It is a detoxifying powerhouse for your skin. Mix equal parts of both until you get a pasty mask, slather it on for 15 minutes or until it dries out and then rinse it off.
This combo draws out impurities and pesky bacteria that thrive in moist places under your arms and can help brighten dark areas over time.
5. Kojic Acid, Arbutin, or Licorice Root Creams
These ingredients are chef’s kiss for brightening dark spots, not only on your face but also on your body. Kojic acid reduces melanin production, arbutin prevents UV-related pigmentation, and licorice root soothes inflammation while tackling discoloration.
Look for body creams or underarm roll-ons with these powerhouse ingredients to make your underarms brighter and smoother.
6. Shave No More! Wax or Laser Instead
I’m so very sure that if you shave, you would’ve noticed that the skin tends to get darker with regular use. It is because the friction nd irritation often cause trauma to the skin that lead to dark patches over time.
If you want to ditch razor burn and ingrown hairs, consider waxing or even investing in laser hair removal. Waxing exfoliates dead skin as it removes hair, and laser hair removal weakens hair growth over time, keeping your underarms smooth and irritation-free.
7. Avoid Deodorants with Alcohol or Fragrance
Did you know alcohol in deodorants can dry out and darken your underarms? Swap those harsh deodorants for options free of alcohol and synthetic fragrances.
Choose a gentle, aluminum-free deodorant with hydrating and soothing ingredients like shea butter or aloe. Smell fresh AND care for your skin? Yes, please!
8. Introduce Clinical-Grade Retinol (Low Strength)
Retinol: the Michael Jordan of skincare. This powerful ingredient boosts cell turnover and promotes smoother, brighter skin, even in the underarm area.
Start with a low-strength, clinical-grade formula, apply slowly (2-3 times per week), and pair it with a good moisturizer to avoid dryness. Give it 2-4 weeks consistently to see results!
