coconut oil for lightening skin

how to lighten underarms: home remedies and tips

Do you have dark underarms that make you self-conscious when wearing sleeveless tops or swimsuits? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with dark underarms, whether it’s due to genetics, hormonal changes, or skin irritation from shaving or using certain products.

The good news is that there are ways to lighten underarms and achieve a brighter, more even tone. 

So, scroll down and check out how to get rid of dark underarms as well as some helpful tips and tricks along the way.

Understanding Dark Underarms

Before we dive into how to lighten underarms, let’s first understand why they may appear darker than the rest of your skin.

why are my underarms dark?

  • Genetics: Just like how some people are more prone to freckles or moles, some individuals may have naturally darker underarms due to their genes.
  • Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and certain medications can cause hormonal changes that may darken the skin in some areas, including the underarms.
  • Shaving: Shaving can irritate the skin and lead to the appearance of dark underarms as the hair grows back.
  • Deodorants and antiperspirants: Some deodorants and antiperspirants contain ingredients such as alcohol, fragrance, and aluminum that can irritate the skin and cause discoloration.
  • Friction: Constant rubbing of the underarms against tight clothing can lead to darkening of the skin.
  • Dead skin cells: Just like any other part of our body, dead skin cells can accumulate on our underarms, leading to a darker appearance.

By understanding the causes of dark underarms, you can better address the issue and find the right solution for you.

What Not to Do When Trying to Lighten Underarms

  • Avoid harsh chemicals: It may be tempting to use strong bleaching agents or acids on your underarms, but this can cause more harm than good. These products can irritate the skin and lead to more discoloration.
  • Don’t over-exfoliate: While exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells, overdoing it can cause irritation and damage to the skin.
  • Skip the lemon juice: Lemon juice is a popular home remedy for lightening underarms, but it can also cause irritation due to its high acidity level.

Now that we have a better understanding of dark underarms let’s move on to the methods for lightening them.

how to lighten underarms naturally

If you prefer natural remedies over store-bought products, here are some options for lightening underarms using ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.

Coconut Oil and Lemon Juice

Coconut oil is known for its moisturizing properties, while lemon juice has natural bleaching abilities. Together, they can help lighten underarms without causing irritation.

How to Use:

  1. Mix equal parts coconut oil and lemon juice.
  2. Apply the mixture onto clean underarms and leave on for 15 minutes.
  3. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
  4. Repeat daily for best results.

Baking Soda and Water

Baking soda has exfoliating properties that can help remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter skin underneath.

How to Use:

  1. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste.
  2. Apply the paste onto damp underarms and gently massage in circular motions.
  3. Leave on for 5 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
  4. Pat dry and apply a moisturizer.
  5. Use this method 2-3 times a week.

Cucumber and Turmeric

Cucumber has a cooling effect on the skin, while turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe any irritation or redness in the underarms.

How to Use:

  1. Blend 1 cucumber into a paste.
  2. Mix in 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder.
  3. Apply the mixture onto clean underarms and leave on for 20 minutes.
  4. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
  5. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

Apple cider vinegar

Using apple cider vinegar to lighten underarms is a popular natural remedy. It is believed that the acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help exfoliate and lighten the skin in the underarm area

How to use

  1. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water to create a solution. 
  2. Do a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
  3. Apply the diluted apple cider vinegar to your underarms using a cotton ball or a clean cloth. Gently rub it into the skin and let it sit for a few minutes.
  4. Rinse off the apple cider vinegar with warm water.

Olive oil

Olive oil is a natural moisturizer and exfoliator, which can help to lighten dark underarms. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from damage.

How to use

  1. Mix together equal parts olive oil and brown sugar to create a paste.
  2. Apply the paste to your underarms and scrub gently for 1-2 minutes. 
  3. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry. 
  4. Repeat this process 2-3 times per week.

Store-Bought Products for Lightening Underarms

If you prefer ready-made products, there are many options available in the market specifically designed for lightening underarms. Here are two popular choices:

Whitening Deodorants

Many deodorant brands now offer whitening versions that claim to lighten underarms with regular use. These products typically contain ingredients like licorice, vitamin C, and niacinamide, which have brightening effects on the skin.

When choosing a whitening deodorant, make sure to read the label and avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances that may irritate your skin.

Body Scrubs

Body scrubs are another popular option for lightening underarms. These products usually contain exfoliating ingredients like sugar, salt, or coffee grounds, as well as moisturizing agents like coconut oil or shea butter.

Make sure to choose a scrub with gentle exfoliants and avoid ones with harsh chemicals that can damage the delicate skin in your underarms.

Professional Treatments for Lightening Underarms

For those looking for more immediate and long-lasting results, there are also professional treatments available for lightening underarms. However, these tend to be more expensive, so it’s essential to do your research and consult with a dermatologist before undergoing any treatment.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a popular treatment for lightening underarms. This procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the top layer and reveals brighter, smoother skin underneath.

Chemical peels can be done at various strengths, so make sure to discuss your concerns and goals with a professional before undergoing the treatment.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is another option for lightening underarms. This treatment uses beams of light to target and break down melanin (pigment) in the skin, resulting in a lighter appearance.

Laser therapy typically requires multiple sessions, and it may cause some discomfort and redness in the treated area.

FAQs

Q: Can shaving cause dark underarms?

A: Shaving can irritate the skin and lead to the appearance of dark underarms as the hair grows back. If you have sensitive skin, consider using alternative hair removal methods like waxing or depilatory creams.

Q: Is it safe to use lemon juice on my underarms?

A: While lemon juice has natural bleaching properties, its high acidity level can also cause irritation and damage to the skin. It’s best to use it in moderation or opt for other gentler natural remedies.

Q: Are there any foods that can help lighten underarms?

A: Some people believe that eating certain fruits like papaya, pineapple, and kiwi can help lighten underarms due to their high vitamin C content. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Q: Can deodorants cause dark underarms?

A: Some deodorants and antiperspirants contain ingredients like alcohol, fragrance, and aluminum that can irritate the skin and lead to discoloration. Consider switching to a more gentle and natural deodorant if you experience any irritation or darkening.

Q: How long does it take to see results from lightening underarms?

A: Results may vary depending on the method or product used. Natural remedies may take a few weeks to see noticeable changes, while professional treatments may show results after just one session.

Final Takeaway

Dark underarms can be a source of insecurity for many people, but there are various methods available for lightening them. Whether you prefer natural remedies, store-bought products, or professional treatments, it’s essential to choose options that are gentle and suitable for your skin type.

Remember to also address any underlying causes of dark underarms, such as hormonal changes or skin irritation, to achieve long-lasting results. With consistent care and patience, you can achieve brighter, smoother underarms and feel more confident in your own skin.

How to Get Rid of Tan Lines: 8 effective ways

Are you tired of having an uneven skin tone due to tan lines? Do you want to achieve an all-over, sun-kissed glow without any streaks or lines? If so, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to get rid of tan lines, including various methods, tips, and tricks. So, let’s dive in!

What are Tan Lines?

Tan lines are the visible divisions on the human skin between an area of pronounced comparative paleness relative to other areas that have been suntanned by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or by sunless tanning. The source of the radiation may be the sun, or artificial UV sources such as tanning lamps.

Tan lines are usually an inadvertent result of a work environment or of recreational activities, but are sometimes intentional. Many people regard visible tan lines as unsightly and seek to avoid tan lines that will be visible when regular clothes are worn.

How to Get Rid of Tan Lines quickly

Exfoliation

Begin by gently exfoliating your skin with a loofah or an exfoliating scrub. Exfoliation helps to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, which can often hold the darker tan color. This process allows the fresher, lighter skin underneath to gradually come to the surface, helping your tan lines to fade more evenly over time.

Self-Tanning Products

Using self-tanning products is another way to even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of tan lines. These products contain DHA, a colorless chemical that reacts with the amino acids in your skin to produce a temporary tan. Self-tanners come in various forms, including lotions, sprays, and mousses. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is renowned for its soothing properties and can be highly effective in fading tan lines. Apply a generous amount of pure aloe vera gel to the tan lines and allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it off. Aloe vera not only helps with fading but also provides relief if your skin is sunburned or irritated.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent due to its acidic properties. Carefully apply fresh lemon juice to the tan lines using a cotton ball or your fingertips. Exercise caution if you have sensitive skin, as lemon juice can be drying. Leave it on for about 15 minutes, and then rinse it off with cool water. Lemon juice can help lighten the darker pigmentation of tan lines over time.

Baking Soda Paste

Create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Gently rub this paste onto the tan lines using circular motions. The baking soda acts as a gentle exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and gradually lightening the tan lines. Rinse off the paste thoroughly after a few minutes.

Coconut

Coconut oil can be a natural remedy to help reduce the appearance of tan lines. Begin by exfoliating the tanned areas gently with a mild scrub or loofah to promote even absorption. Then, apply virgin coconut oil generously to the tan lines, massaging it in with circular motions. Leave it on to absorb its moisturizing and nourishing properties. Reapply daily or as needed to help fade tan lines and encourage smoother, more even skin

Sun Exposure

Gradually expose the tan lines to natural sunlight, but remember to protect the surrounding skin with sunscreen. Sun exposure can help even out your tan by allowing the affected areas to darken gradually. However, always use sunscreen to prevent further damage and tan lines from developing on unprotected skin. Start by spending a few minutes in the sun each day and gradually increase the amount of time you spend in the sun over time.

Makeup 

Sometimes, despite being well-versed in the methods to eliminate tan lines and having the required tools, you may find yourself pressed for time, unable to wait for your tan to fade or tan lines to blend naturally. In such situations, makeup emerges as a practical solution, and that’s perfectly acceptable. We suggest beginning with a concealing foundation and concluding with a setting powder to ensure your efforts stay in position and achieve a seamless finish.

Tips for preventing Tan Lines

Wear Protective Clothing

The best way to prevent tan lines is to wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses. This will help block out UV rays and reduce your risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Apply Sunscreen Evenly

If you do need to expose your skin to the sun, make sure to apply sunscreen evenly and generously. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating.

Tan Gradually

To avoid getting noticeable tan lines, try to tan gradually over time. Start with short periods of sun exposure and gradually increase your time in the sun. This will help your skin build up a natural resistance to UV rays and reduce your risk of sunburn.

Use a Tanning Bed

If you prefer to tan indoors, using a tanning bed can help even out your skin tone. However, be aware that tanning beds emit UV radiation, which can be harmful to your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.

FAQs

  1. Can you get rid of tan lines overnight? No, it is not possible to get rid of tan lines overnight. It takes time for your skin to naturally shed dead skin cells and produce new ones, which can help fade tan lines gradually. However, you can use self-tanners or makeup to cover up tan lines temporarily.
  2. Are tan lines permanent? Tan lines are not permanent, but they can take several weeks or months to fade completely. The best way to prevent tan lines is to protect your skin from the sun and wear protective clothing.
  3. Can you exfoliate too much? Yes, you can exfoliate too much, which can damage your skin and make it more sensitive to the sun. Stick to gentle exfoliation once or twice a week and avoid using harsh scrubs or brushes.
  4. Can tanning beds get rid of tan lines? Tanning beds can help even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of tan lines. Yet, they emit UV radiation, which can be harmful to your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. It is important to use them in moderation and always wear protective eyewear.