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At a rally, one participant gained social media attention for her underarms. Netizens focused on the perceived skin discoloration, while others mentioned armpit hair.
Armpits should be the least of our concerns at a protest rally where more pressing issues need to be addressed.
To provide perspective, we consulted with board-certified dermatologists to discuss the role of armpit hair and the causes of skin discoloration.
Is armpit hair unhygienic?
According to dermatologists, the presence of armpit hair is “totally normal” and actually reduces the risk of irritation from underarm products like deodorants.
Armpit hair also serves as a “dry lubricant,” minimizing skin-on-skin contact and irritation.
“This means you’re less likely to get rashes or abrasions from everyday activities or exercise,” one expert noted.
“Hair also helps disperse sweat, which can aid in cooling and reduce direct skin dampness in the area,” they added.
However, armpit hair “can trap sweat and bacteria,” which may contribute to “body odor if the area isn’t kept clean.” But keeping “the hair itself isn’t unhygienic.”
If you maintain good hygiene — regular washing, using deodorant — “having armpit hair does not significantly increase odor.”
“The key is bathing regularly and drying your underarms to prevent bacterial buildup,” the expert explained.
What causes skin discoloration on the armpit?
When it comes to underarm skin discoloration, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a significant factor.
“Friction due to repetitive shaving, waxing, or use of harsh, irritating whitening products leads to PIH,” one dermatologist explained, adding this phenomenon is “more common with darker skin tones.”
Other causes of skin discoloration include shaving and plucking armpit hair, using deodorants or other underarm products, genetics, skin tone, and other skin conditions.
“Frequent hair removal is a major contributor to skin discoloration,” experts noted.
As a result of shaving and waxing, “the skin responds by increasing pigment cells.”
“Regularly shaving your underarms can stimulate excess melanin production, making the skin appear darker over time,” they added.
When it comes to deodorants and other underarm products, ingredients like fragrance and alcohol can lead to skin irritation.
“Fragrances, dyes, and preservatives in deodorant, shaving creams, and other products are known to cause underarm darkening in susceptible people,” one expert said.
“Essentially, if you’re sensitive to an ingredient, your skin might darken as a response,” they added.
How to avoid skin discoloration?
If you’re looking for alternatives to hair removal to prevent PIH, diode laser treatments are recommended.
“I recommend diode laser hair removal as a semi-permanent way to get rid of armpit hair and to reduce the hassle brought about by shaving or waxing,” one dermatologist suggested.
“The number of sessions of laser treatment would depend on the hair density, the thickness of the hair strand, and the interval between sessions,” they added, noting that an average individual would need eight to 12 sessions to fully get rid of armpit hair.
Other experts advised the same treatment, saying that “after laser treatments, the underarm skin often looks lighter and smoother.”
“It’s an investment, but worth it for those who struggle with chronic ingrown hairs or pigmentation from shaving,” they noted.
However, if laser hair removal isn’t within your budget, reducing the frequency of shaving or waxing can lessen the risk of skin irritation.
“You might find shaving two to three times a week instead of daily still keeps you presentable, but gives your skin more recovery time,” one expert suggested.
“With waxing, stick to the recommended interval, usually a month, to avoid overdoing it,” they added.
If underarm skin discoloration becomes a concern, it’s best to see a doctor for a proper consultation.
