Dark underarms? Here’s what’s actually causing them — and how to fix it
There's no need to be embarrassed — it’s a super common skin issue.
An O.G. brand in the world of body lotions, Vanicream may not be fancy, but it gets the job done and is gentle on skin. It is free of fragrances, dyes, parabens and sulfates, which Emer says is ideal for preventing underarm irritation. This lotion has also been awarded a seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association, making it a good option for those who also deal with eczema.
This shaving cream, which has a 4.5-star average rating from 1,481 reviews on Amazon, is fragrance-free and packed with ingredients meant to soothe the skin — like coconut oil and allantoin, according to the brand. The whipped texture also goes on thick, creating a nice barrier between your skin and razor as you shave.
If laser hair removal isn’t possible, consider switching your razor to one made for sensitive skin. These from Gillette have a moisture strip on them that lubricates skin before the razor hits an area, so it glides over skin more smoothly, according to the brand. It also has three razor blades that are surrounded by cushions and rounded edges to prevent friction as you shave.
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Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed dermatologists about dark underarms.
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