How to Lighten Dark Underarms: 5 Miraculous Beauty Remedies

Are dark underarms the reason you have stopped wearing your favorite sleeveless top or going out for a swim? There is always a solution to the problems we face in our day-to-day lives. However, before moving on to the various remedies that can help you reduce discoloration of your underarms, let us understand the causes behind the problem. Very often, dead cells accumulate in the underarm area and cause darkness. These dead cells are a result of non-exposure of the skin in that area. A lot of us also use skin products that contain chemicals, which we are unaware of. A common example is deodorants, the content of which tends to react with our skin, causing discoloration. Acanthosis Nigricans is a medical condition that occurs in individuals who are overweight. It can also occur in those who suffer from gland disorders. It results in a velvet-like layer under the arms which darkens the skin.Shaving is another major factor of underarm darkening because while shaving, the hair is cut right above the surface of the skin, making the area look dark. According to Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, a renowned Dermatologist, "certain causes associated with underarm darkening include Friction Dermatitis, which leads to eczema, itching and skin pigmentation. Bleaching is another reason. Bleach has ammonia that can cause acid burns. Chronic bleaching of the underarms further increases skin pigmentation. Deodorants contain nitrium in them, which cause a change in the skin, invoking sweat allergies and so on. Darkening is also associated with genetic factors. Diabetes leads to skin darkening as well."There are several easy-to-find home remedies that you could use if you are troubled with dark skin in the underarm area. 

Here are some remedies that may help you get rid of dark underarms and attain even skin tone:

1. Lemon Juice

Lemon has antibacterial as well as antiseptic properties, hence it acts like a natural bleaching agent. Apart from lightening the skin, lemon also helps in exfoliating the cells that become dead over a period of time.How to apply: Rub a lemon under the arms for 15 minutes prior to your bath. For instant results, apply the lemon at least twice a day.

2. Tomato Juice

Raw tomato is extremely effective in lightening the skin in the underarm area. It also helps reduce sweating which is a major cause of darkening of the area. Like lemon juice, tomato juice too consists of bleaching properties that naturally help in reducing discolouration.How to apply: Daily, rub a slice of raw tomato in the underarms. Applying tomato juice overnight will also help.(Also Read: Tomato Juice Benefits: From Improving Digestion To Boosting Eye Health And More!)

3. Turmeric

Apart from being a rich Indian spice, turmeric is an essential beauty ingredient that enhances our skin in various ways. It contains a chemical known as curcumin, which is an antioxidant and helps lighten the skin tone in the underarm area. Turmeric is considered as one of the most effective natural remedies for skin lightening.How to apply: For 100 percent results, mix turmeric with lemon juice to make a paste. Apply it on the affected area for 12-15 minutes and rinse with water. Get instant results.(Also Read: 5 Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of Rosacea (Skin Redness))

4. Vitamin E Oil

Dry skin often results in pigmentation and oil is considered as one of the most effective lubricants in order to get rid of dry skin. This pigmentation is one of the reasons for underarm skin darkening as well. Coconut oil, almond oil or in fact any kind of oil is extremely effective in such situations.How to apply: Coconut oil contains vitamin E, which is essential for skin lightening. Massage the oil for 20 minutes everyday and see the change in your skin tone.(Also Read: Coconut Oil for Face: 7 Ways to Use it For a Beauty Boost)

5. Milk Or Malai

Massaging the underarm area with milk or malai may also help in lightening the skin tone. Malai is a great skin moisturiser and it helps in providing soft and brighter skin. Malai has been an integral part of Indian beauty rituals since time immemorial. (Also Read: 5 Ways To Use Malai (Milk Cream) For Flawlessly Smooth, Soft and Supple Skin)While several other home remedies exist, these ones literally work like a miracle in order to get rid of dark underarms. Along with the aforementioned home remedies, there are certain preventive measures that one could take. Opt for waxing the underarms instead of shaving. Waxing lightens the skin tone and reduces the growth of thick hair in the area. Keep your weight balanced because being overweight is a major reason for darkness of the skin. Refrain from using hair removal creams as they consist of harmful chemicals that reduce the natural order of the skin. Ensure that you take a bath daily so that excessive sweating does not take place. Above all, keep a good hygiene and you need not worry about dark underarms.Disclaimer:The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.