DARK UNDERARMS

Most women face this issue at some point – this can be very restrictive to wardrobe options. The simplest course is to follow some easy home remedies which can be worked on regularly and keep the underarms clean and fresh.

The Don’ts:

 Try not to shave underarms regularly – waxing is a better option. When you do shave, move in the same direction as hair growth otherwise there will be ingrown hair, which will darken the area. Use a moisturizer before and after the use of a razor.

 Avoid wearing tight clothing or synthetic fabrics too often as this will cause excessive friction.

 When there is acidity in the system the perspiration is extreme, which will secrete uric acid which darkens the skin.

 Take care not to spray deodorants directly on the skin, keep a distance of 6cms and spray. Chemicals present in deodorants are a cause for darkened skin.

 Exfoliate at least twice a week to remove the buildup of dead cells and bacteria.

 Restrict use of depilatory creams as the chemicals darken skin. When you do use a hair removing cream – wash underarm thoroughly with warm water. Use a mudpack made with fullers earth as this will absorb all the chemicals and leave the area clean and dry.

 Due to bacterial infection, there will be some itching and bad body odor. The area develops dark patches. Use an anti fungal powder.

 Sometimes dark underarms are hereditary, at times due to birth control pills and due to diabetes. You need to consult your physician under these circumstances.

 When the arms are very flabby and heavy due to obesity – dark underarms can result.

Some Simple Remedies:

 Slice a lemon and rub the area, leave for 15 minutes and wash. Dry thoroughly.

 Add lemon juice to baking soda and apply this paste, leave it till it dries and wash. Dry thoroughly.

 Baking soda can be applied regularly after a bath.

 Rub the underarm area with a slice of potato. Potato juice can also be applied with good results as it can bleach skin.

 Make a paste with 1 tablespoon of gram flour, a pinch of turmeric powder and 1 tablespoon of yogurt. Apply and leave for 15-20 minutes. Wash and dry thoroughly.

 To 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder add enough rose water to make a paste. Apply and leave for 15-20 minutes. Wash and dry thoroughly.

 Regularly massage your underarms with coconut oil before a bath. This will remove bacterial infections and lighten underarms at the same time.

 Make a scrub with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey and 1 teaspoon of powdered walnuts or peanuts. Apply and leave on for 20 minutes. Honey nourishes the skin, while lime acts as a bleaching agent and nuts provide essential nutrients and oils.

 Blend some orange peels and add 1 teaspoon of yogurt, apply and leave on for 20 minutes. This smells good as well as lightens skin.

 Mash 1 ripe banana and combine the pulp with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, a pinch of turmeric powder and apply, leave for 20 minutes. Wash off and dry thoroughly.

 Apple cider vinegar can be dabbed on – it could even be combined with 1/2 a teaspoon of baking soda for good results.

 Try to use an anti fungal powder or alum powder instead of a deodorant.

Use any of the tips that suit you best. As there is no ventilation – the underarm area requires some care before you wear your sleeveless and topless garments. The key to having fair underarms is Regular Care.