The 101 on dark underarms
One of the most common questions I get is: “How do I get rid of dark underarms?” And trust me, you’re not alone. Dark underarms are super common, and while they can be annoying, they’re usually caused by things we can manage or treat.
Why do underarms get dark?
Ingrown hairs & razor burn → Shaving can irritate skin, leading to bumps and dark marks
Deodorant ingredients → Alcohol, parabens, and fragrances can trigger irritation + pigmentation
Friction → Tight clothes or even scrubbing too hard with loofahs = irritation + darkening
Medical conditions → Acanthosis nigricans can cause thick, velvety dark patches
Hormones → Pregnancy, insulin resistance, or PCOS can affect pigmentation
Exfoliation mistakes → Too little = dead skin buildup; too much = irritation + discoloration
What actually helps
Gentle care → No harsh scrubbing, bleaching, or tight synthetic fabrics
Hygiene → Keep skin fresh to avoid bacterial/fungal irritation
Exfoliate correctly → 2–3x/week with gentle scrubs or mild chemical exfoliants (glycolic acid!)
Stay hydrated → Use moisturizers with soothing ingredients like aloe, ceramides, or glycerin
Switch deodorant → Try fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, or even natural deodorants
Shaving → Always shave with a clean, sharp razor + shaving cream, in the direction of growth
My fave products for bright underarms
Amlactin → Gentle lactic acid lotion for exfoliation
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid → Can be used as a chemical exfoliant (with caution)
Neutrogena SA Body Wash → Salicylic acid helps smooth texture + unclog pores
Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar → Brightening 3-in-1 cleanser
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol → A budget-friendly retinol for gentle turnover
Final spill
Dark underarms are so common, especially for us with melanin-rich skin. Be patient, stay consistent, and avoid harsh quick fixes. With the right gentle care, you can deff see brighter, smoother underarms!