Underarm care is an important part of personal hygiene, yet it rarely gets the attention it deserves. Looking after your underarms goes beyond daily cleansing and calls for a comprehensive approach to issues such as unwanted hair, sweaty armpits, and underarm odour. Discussing your concern with a dermatologist and choosing the right treatment is the key to managing overall underarm health.
The different underarm treatments
Underarm hair removal
Unwanted hair growth in the armpits can look unpleasant and contribute to odour, and the right removal method makes a real difference to underarm health. The dermatologist may suggest:
- Waxing: removes hair from the root and offers longer-lasting smoothness than options such as shaving.
- Laser hair removal: a semi-permanent solution that targets the hair follicles to reduce growth. You will usually need several sessions over time; although more expensive, it is more long-lasting than other methods.
Underarm odour management
Underarm odour can make anyone feel self-conscious in public. The main causes are sweat, bacteria, and poor underarm hygiene.
- Topical products: the dermatologist may prescribe antiperspirants or deodorants. Antiperspirants contain aluminium compounds that reduce sweating by temporarily blocking the sweat ducts, while deodorants help mask odour.
- Diet and lifestyle: you may be advised to limit foods such as garlic, onion, and certain spices that can cause strong body odour, and to stay well hydrated to reduce its intensity.
Underarm sweating
Excessive underarm sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, can occur for various reasons. Management options include:
- Clinical-strength antiperspirants: higher concentrations of active ingredients help control excessive sweating.
- Botox injections: injected into the armpits to block the nerves responsible for sweating. The effect typically lasts several months, so treatment is repeated periodically.
- Oral medications: some can reduce sweating by limiting sweat-gland stimulation.
- Surgical options: procedures such as sympathectomy or sweat-gland removal may be considered in severe cases.
Dark underarms
Dark underarms result from excess pigmentation, which may be caused by shaving, friction, or hormonal changes.
- Topical treatments: ingredients such as kojic acid, niacinamide, or glycolic acid can help lighten the skin, though you must use them consistently as results appear gradually.
- Laser treatment: an advanced option that targets melanin to reduce pigmentation.
- Chemical peels: a chemical solution exfoliates the skin so the darkened surface peels away, revealing lighter skin underneath; the choice of peel depends on your skin type.
- Microdermabrasion: a non-invasive technique that exfoliates with fine crystals, reducing pigmentation and improving texture over several sessions.
Personalised, expert-led care
The right combination depends on your concern and skin type. At Derma Essence, treatment is led by Dr. Reena Sharma (MD Dermatology). For related concerns, see laser hair removal or pigmentation removal.
Book a consultation for a personalised assessment.
