Many people want to find an effective method to lighten dark underarms. To do this, they often consider using natural remedies, in addition to any treatment recommended by a dermatologist.
It should be noted that, although the use of natural remedies to lighten dark underarms is popularly recommended, it should be done with caution and preferably after performing an allergy test on a specific area of the skin of the forearm.
All of this is aimed at avoiding unwanted reactions, such as irritation, redness, itching, etc., since not all skin types react the same way to the same products.
Why do armpits darken?
Regular shaving, aging, lack of exfoliation, and other factors can contribute to darkening of the underarms and other areas of the body. However, the most common cause remains shaving.
While it doesn’t pose a serious health problem, it is considered a cosmetic issue. It can generally be corrected with techniques such as laser treatment and the application of certain topical products, under medical supervision.
These techniques have proven effectiveness and, in fact, are usually the most popular. However, some people believe they can use certain natural remedies to achieve similar effects.
The problem with natural remedies for lightening dark underarms is that they aren’t entirely safe. They can irritate the skin and even worsen the darkening. Therefore, it’s important not to use them without at least consulting a dermatologist first.
Precautions when using natural remedies
As we mentioned before, while it’s true that there are several natural remedies for lightening dark underarms, you should be cautious when using them. Mainly for two reasons:
- Not all skin types react favorably to different substances.
- Some mixtures can be very harsh on the skin, especially when several ingredients are used in large quantities.
Natural remedies for dark underarms
According to popular belief, these are some remedies that can be used to lighten dark underarms. Keep in mind that if you plan to try them, it’s best to consult a doctor first. If they give you any specific recommendations, follow them.
1. Potato Juice:
It is believed that natural potato juice contains substances that act as skin-lightening agents. Applying it is thought to facilitate the removal of dead skin cells from the affected area, thus contributing to the “lightening” process.
How would it be used?
- Cut a potato into thin slices and rub them on your armpits for 2 or 3 minutes.
- Leave on for a few minutes and rinse with cold water.
2. Lemon juice to lighten dark underarms
Lemon juice is one of the most popular home remedies and is believed to help lighten dark underarms, as well as eliminate bad odors.
How would it be used?
- Cut a lemon in half and rub it on the skin of your armpits for 2 minutes.
- Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse with plenty of water.
Note: Some people prepare a mixture of baking soda and lemon to lighten their underarms naturally. However, this mixture can be very irritating, as both ingredients are very harsh on the skin. Therefore, avoid using baking soda.
3. Orange Peels
Another citrus fruit believed to lighten the skin in this area of the body is the orange, and in particular, its peel. By helping to exfoliate the area, it is said to leave the skin clearer and smoother.
How would it be used?
- Dry the orange peels in the sun and then grind them into a fine powder.
- Moisten the powder with a little water or milk and rub it onto the skin with gentle circular motions.
- Leave it on for a few minutes and rinse with cold water.
4. Coconut oil
It is believed that by moisturizing the skin with coconut oil, its color could be reduced and, gradually, it could be lightened completely.
How would it be used?
- Rub a small amount of organic coconut oil onto your underarms using gentle circular motions.
- Leave it on for a few minutes and rinse with neutral soap and warm water.
5. Sandalwood.
Sandalwood powder also acts as an exfoliant (and therefore, a “whitening” agent). For this reason, it is believed that it could help lighten dark underarms.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of sandalwood powder (20 g).
Rose water (as needed).
How would it be used?
- Combine a couple of tablespoons of sandalwood powder with rose water until you get a thick paste.
- Rub the product into your underarms with gentle circular motions and leave it on for a few minutes.
It is interesting to note that sandalwood oil has been used as a therapeutic agent in dermatology and has demonstrated beneficial effects in the laboratory. Specifically, it has shown biological activity as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative agent.
6. Natural yogurt
In popular belief, due to its lactic acid content, natural yogurt is considered a suitable remedy to lighten dark underarms, moisturize, and soften the area.
How would it be used?
- Rub a little natural yogurt on your armpits and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
- If you want to enhance its effects, combine it with a little sea salt and apply it with circular motions to exfoliate the skin.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
The best way to lighten dark underarms
Laser procedures are usually the most effective in the long term, but everything will depend on what the dermatologist says during the consultation, as not all cases are the same, nor can they be approached in the same way.
For all the reasons we’ve mentioned, it’s highly recommended that you get a checkup before resorting to any home remedy for underarm whitening. This way, you can be sure you’re using the most suitable technique for you, safely.