Everyone takes a different type of care for their skin. While some use DYI methods, others choose drugstore cosmetics, and others prefer to mix between luxury cosmetics and aesthetic treatments. This also applies to the underarm skin as well. There are so many ways to treat the underarms area – from different hair removal methods to skin whitening. Having hyperpigmentation (darker skin) under the arms is actually a very common issue. And while it’s not a medical issue, and most people leave it untreated, for some people it can become a confidence issue. Luckily for them, there are many options to lighten the skin under the arms.
If you’re currently looking for ways to whiten your underarms, you might find this article helpful. You’re going to read about the underarm whitening treatments popular in Singapore – what they are, possible side effects, and the costs you can expect in Singapore.
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Causes of underarm pigmentation
Dark underarms are very common and may happen due to a lot of reasons. For some people, dark underarm skin may develop because of their natural skin tone. Some people may get dark underarm similar to the darkened skin on the knees or elbows, for example.
In some cases, the underarm pigmentation may be caused by health conditions such as diabetes. Pigmentation appears on the skin of patients with diabetes due to insulin resistance. The insulin can interfere with skin pigmentation. Insulin resistance can also cause dark underarms in patients having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). That’s why if you feel like your underarms suddenly became dark, you should go to a doctor to determine the cause of the pigmentation.
Besides health conditions, you might get darker armpits because of deodorants or antiperspirants. Sometimes they have ingredients that may irritate the skin, which may cause darker skin. Such ingredients include aluminium. Irritation can also happen due to shaving as well.
How to effectively whiten underarms?
Luckily, if you’re looking for answers on how to whiten armpits or the best way to whiten underarms fast, there are various treatments available in Singapore. You can choose between natural remedies to even out the skin tone, as well as cosmetics and underarm whitening treatment like lasers, for example. Here’s more detailed information about all the whitening treatments used for the underarms.
Cosmetic Treatment for Underarm Whitening
There are many options for cosmetic armpit whitening treatment in Singapore. You can go to a dermatologist or an aesthetic clinic to determine suitable whitening treatment options. Those can include laser treatment, chemical peels, or underarm whitening creams. These should be prescribed by a dermatologist because they can irritate the skin and cause damage if not administered properly. The results will be more permanent using these treatment methods.
Underarm Laser Whitening Treatment
Laser treatment is one of the most used treatments when it comes to treating the dark pigments in the skin. A lot of patients and professionals that laser treatments are on the best underarm whitening treatment in Singapore. It works by providing laser energy deep within the skin to break down the dark pigments into smaller particles. This also promotes collagen production within the skin. The dark pigments will be broken down into smaller particles and absorbed by the body in the next few months. A lot of people swear by lasers because of their quick effect and little to no downtime.
During a laser treatment, you might feel slight tingling and discomfort. After that, you might experience redness and slight irritation which will resolve on their own.
You can also try laser hair removal treatments too. This will take care of your skin if shaving irritates it. It will also have a whitening effect. You’ll see results in a few sessions.
Cost for Underarms laser whitening in Singapore
The cost for the treatment in Singapore will vary on the severity of pigmentation, whether you’ll need additional sessions, and the type of laser your dermatologist uses. Modern laser technology usually costs more. But modern technology is stronger yet gentler on the skin which will make the risk of having side effects much smaller. That being said, the cost you can expect is around $200.
Home Treatment for Underarms Whitening
There are some steps you can take before you try any specific ingredients used for whitening for underarms. If you don’t see any results following these steps, it may be time to try something stronger or to consult a dermatologist. These include:
- Change your deodorant. As mentioned previously, some deodorants have ingredients that can lead to dark underarms. You can try using natural deodorants or change the brand to one that doesn’t have such ingredients.
- Stop shaving. You might try to use a different hair removal method such as waxing or laser hair removal.
Natural Treatment for Underarms Whitening
Natural treatment may also be beneficial for whitening underarm but it may not always have the best, long-lasting results. If you don’t see any visible results, you might want to consult a dermatologist who can suggest additional treatment options.
Lemon Juice and Aloe Vera
Lemon juice is rich in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that’s especially beneficial for pigmentation and skin darkening. This makes it especially effective for underarm whitening and dark underarms. As lemon juice can be harsh on the skin, aloe Vera gel will help soothe the skin while still maintaining the whitening effects. You can leave that mixture on for 10 minutes before washing it.
Cucumber and Aloe Vera
Cucumber is very good for hydration and the silica in it can stimulate the growth of connective tissue in the skin. Aloe Vera is a very popular skin ingredient that not only moisturizes but also has anti-inflammatory properties. This will refresh and hydrate your skin.
Potato Juice
Potatoes actually contain Vitamin C and a “bleaching” enzyme called catecholase. While the science behind potatoes as a skin whitening lightening are lacking, people around the internet wear by its whitening properties. You can use it by grating a potato and then applying the juice on the skin of your dark underarms. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse it with water.
Turmeric
A popular and delicious herb, turmeric is used a lot through Asia and across the world. Turmeric also has whitening properties as well as anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. All of these properties work great for pigmentation. To whiten your underarms, you can mix lemon juice, turmeric, and the leave the paste on your armpits for 30 minutes. After that, you can wash it off.
Underarm Whitening Creams
Your dermatologist might also prescribe topical creams with whitening agents. Creams are one of the most used methods in armpit whitening treatment. This is an effective treatment that won’t cause unnatural discolouration and is suitable for most skin tones. You’ll notice results in a few months of prescribed application. Such creams include:
- Hydroquinone: A popular bleaching ingredient. It works by decreasing the number of melanocytes (the cells producing melanin). This will help with pigmentation and will even out your skin tone. The results of hydroquinone may vary, and treatment with it may not be suitable for all skin tones. Ask your dermatologists for information.
- Tretinoin: often used in combination with hydroquinone, tretinoin works by promoting faster skin cell turnover. It’s an acidic form of Vitamin A. Tretinoin can be effective for a variety of issues, including acne scars, pigmentation, and dark armpits. It’s also widely used to reduce damage caused by sunlight and for anti-aging properties. It’s very effective for underarms whitening.
- Kojic Acid: It’s made from different types of fungi or as a byproduct of certain fermented foods. It works by preventing the formation of tyrosine, an amino acid aiding melanin production. It can cause some skin irritation if used in higher concentrations. It is very effective, however, for skin pigmentation and lightening. It also has some antimicrobial and antifungal properties.