What should be done if a woman's underarms are dark, appearing as if dirty?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Darkening of the skin under a woman's armpits, resembling dirt, may be caused by physiological or pathological factors, such as excessive distribution of melanocytes or post-inflammatory pigmentation. Targeted treatment is required, with specific analysis as follows: During puberty, hormonal levels in the underarm area are higher than in other areas; similarly, abnormal hormone levels during pregnancy or lactation can lead to darkened underarms in women.
Generally, darkening of the underarms in women that appears dirty may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions, such as excessive distribution of melanocytes or post-inflammatory pigmentation, which require targeted treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Physiological Factors
Due to higher hormone levels in the underarm area during puberty or abnormal hormone fluctuations during pregnancy and lactation compared to other body areas, women may experience darkening of the underarms, making them appear unclean. This condition can be treated with laser skin rejuvenation therapy, which removes excess melanin and restores normal skin tone.
2. Pathological Factors
1) Excessive Melanocyte Distribution
If the underarm area is not properly cleaned in daily life or if an individual has poor metabolic function, it may lead to excessive accumulation of melanocytes, resulting in this phenomenon. This can be improved through daily care, such as consuming more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C.
2) Pigmentation
If the underarm area has previously experienced inflammation, prolonged stimulation by inflammatory factors may lead to hyperpigmentation. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as tretinoin cream or azelaic acid cream can be used to inhibit melanin production and alleviate this symptom.
In addition to the common causes mentioned above, this condition may also be triggered by folliculitis, eczema, acanthosis nigricans, or other factors. When this issue affects daily life, individuals should seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
