From The Straits Times    |
(Photo: 123rf.com)

 

Skin darkening at the underarms does not happen overnight. It is caused by rubbing and tugging of the skin at this delicate area.

When you shave or wear tight clothing, inflammation occurs inside the skin, and the skin protects itself by producing dark pigments. 
 

Treatments to consider

There are three common skin lightening treatments including chemical peel, intense pulsed light (IPL) and laser treatment.

Dr Karen Soh, medical director of Prive Clinic says that laser is by far the most effective method of the three. 

Chemical peels can be too harsh for sensitive skin, while varying and inexact wavelengths of IPL can lessen its efficacy. 

 

Do whitening deodorants really work?

According to Dr Soh, whitening deodorants can work as well.

Pick one that contains ingredients such as arbutin, azelaic acid or kojic acid to help lighten any skin discolouration. 

These are non-irritating substances that are suitable for skin in the underarm area, which tends to be more sensitive.  

Looking for basic at-home underarm maintenance? Try exfoliating your underarms once to twice weekly to help regulate the skin renewal rate and remove darkened dead skin cells.

Take care not to apply too much pressure when you scrub as that would contribute to skin darkening.

 

This article was originally published in Simply Her September 2011.