Dark underarms are mainly associated with a skin condition known as acanthosis nigricans (AN). This skin disorder is common in people who have other underlying medical conditions like obesity or diabetes. The underarms region is susceptible to various problems such as pigmentation rashes, ingrown hair, pimples, and infection. You will find many woman and men who are complaining of discoloration or pigmentation.
Dark underarms can be treated by adopting effective remedies, and techniques for whiter underarms. Following these tips will make your underarms brighter and lighter. Some of the treatment methods used include laser therapy, natural remedies like sea or cucumber extracts, moisturizing and application of topical creams.
Primary Causes for Dark Underarms
Melanocytes (pigment cells) play a crucial role in determining the skin color. These cells can multiply more making the skin color to become dark. Individuals who have dark skin are more prone to this condition compared to those who have a light one. Outlined here below are the leading causes of dark underarms:
Obesity
Being overweight can make the body to develop resistance to insulin. This is the hormone that is responsible for regulating the levels of blood sugar. Overproduction or high levels of insulin in the blood can increase the production of cell pigments. It is estimated that more than more than 50% percent of the overweight people have dark underarms.
Cancer
Darkening of the underarm is sometimes associated with various forms of cancer. This is an issue that can affect the colon, stomach, or liver. Development of tumors is known for increasing the levels of growth factors which stimulate the production of skin pigment cells. The AN caused by cancerous tumors is referred to as malignant acanthosis nigricans. Some of the affected people can develop dark patches around their mouth.
Medication
Some medications can increase the levels of insulin in the body. These medications include birth control pills, human growth hormones, high-dose niacin, corticosteroids like prednisone, insulin. Using these medications for a long time can lead to lead to darkening of the underarms.
Hormone Syndromes
Some conditions can disrupt the insulin levels in the body leading to AN. Some of the hormonal syndromes associated with darkening of the underarms include acromegaly, crushing syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome and hypothyroidism.
How to Prevent Dark Underarms
The following are the effective remedies for dark underarms:
Natural Remedies
Some people have been using these methods to achieve bright and light pigmented skin. These include:
• Milk thistle extract
• Curcumin
• Sea cucumber extracts
• Olive oil
• Turmeric
• Aloe vera gel
Medications
A dermatologist can prescribe certain medications or procedures to lighten the dark areas under the arms. Some of the popular options include:
• Chemical peels
• Retinoid pills or creams
• Calcipotriene