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
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