I’m ashamed of my discoloured underarms
DARK underarms, thigh creases and butt cheeks are common problems faced by black women, especially. These issues often result in a restriction in wardrobes for some as they refuse to wear clothes which make the problem more visible.
Dark underarms can be caused by a number of factors including the shaving of the armpits, the accumulation of dirt under the arm, the build-up of dead skin cells or excessive sweating. Darkened butt cheeks and inner thighs on the other hand are caused by skin irritation, rashes and blisters or the constant wearing of tight clothes.
Waxing helps with underarm discolouration to some extent, but it can be extremely painful and shaving even worsens the problem as it makes the hair grow back thicker which then causes your skin to take on a more darkened appearance.
In fact, the appearance of dark underarms has been explained by some as being caused by the shadow of hair under the skin after shaving. Waxing gets rid of this problem.
Things like using depilatory creams also can burn the skin, causing it to turn dark.
In the case of dark butt cheeks, skin specialist Dr Neil Persadsingh has encouraged lightening alternatives, done under the guidance of a dermatologist.
This he said, “refers to the treatment of the skin in this area to make it lighter and to get it feeling smoother.”
“It may be particularly helpful for women who wear thongs and feel insecure about the appearance of that region of the body,” explained the doctor.
“Women of colour have for a long time complained that the area around the vagina, the buttocks and under the arms is often darker than the rest of the skin and have noted their desire to have those areas toned in line with the rest of their skin colour,” he said.
Darkened buttocks and inner thighs can also be treated with a number of other simple remedies such as cocoa butter, which helps to even out skin tone.
Exfoliating the skin is a good way to remove dead skin and lighten the discoloured areas. Table salt and sugar for example are two of the ingredients often suggested for exfoliation because of their coarse textures. This is done with use of an exfoliating pad and warm water during showers.
Because resistance is a significant cause for skin discolouration, it is advisable that you avoid undergarments made from synthetic material.
Excessive weight also causes your legs to rub together causing the darkening of the inner thigh.
If dark underarms are preventing you from wearing your outfits, you can also try applying vitamin E oil under your arm. If you must shave, it is advisable that you do so while taking a shower and with the use of shower gel or cream for a much smoother shave. Gel-based deodorants are also encouraged over powder-based ones since it is believed that they absorb into the underarm more efficiently.
