Dark Under Arms

Dark Under Arms

Your underarms should naturally be about the same shade as the rest of your skin. But sometimes, 
the skin in the armpits can turn a darker hue. Dark underarms usually aren’t a sign of anything 
serious, but some people may find them embarrassing — especially during tank top and swimsuit 
season.


Darkening is often due to a skin condition called acanthosis nigricans (AN). It causes skin to thicken 
and darken in folds around the body.
Common areas of darkening include the:
● armpits
● back of the neck
● groin
● elbows
● knees


The likelihood of developing dark underarms often depends on factors like race, health, and family 
history
Anyone can develop AN, but some people have a greater risk. People who have darker skin are more 
likely to have darkening under their arms than people with lighter skin.
AN sometimes runs in families. You inherit it via a faulty gene. You’re more likely to have dark 
patches on your skin if you have a parent, sibling, or other close relative with the condition.
Although AN is usually genetic or tied to an underlying condition, there’s some evidence to suggest 
that hair removal may also be a culprit especially through waxing.

Other causes:
● Obesity
● Type 2 diabetes
● polycystic ovary syndrome
● Cushing syndrome
● acromegaly
● hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid gland
● insulin
● corticosteroids, such as prednisone (Rayos)
● human growth hormone
● birth control pills
● high-dose niacin (Niacor)


Dos and Don’ts
● Avoid waxing and hair removal cream; opt for shaving or laser hair removal. Repeated injury from 
waxing can darken the underarm area. Laser can reduce 70-80%
● Don’t use chemical deodorants sprays especially those with alcohol. Go for roll-ons and those with 
natural ingredients
● Loose fitted clothes
● Don’t use loofah in this area during bathing