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Discover what causes skin discoloration on your underarms

As the body's largest organ, our skin goes through a lot on a day-to-day basis. More than 1 in 3 of the women we asked told us that they worry about discolored underarms – so much that it’s impacted their lifestyle. The sheer amount of us who have underarm marks shows that it’s common. If you have ever wondered what causes skin discoloration in armpits or how to even out skin tone, then you've come to the right place.

06 December '23

Why armpit discoloration is completely natural

Discoloration in underarms is a common and natural occurrence that many people notice and sometimes feel concerned about. But understanding that this is a normal part of how our skin functions can help put these concerns in perspective for your underarms..

Common causes of armpit discoloration

Understanding the root causes of armpit discoloration in your underarms is the first step toward finding effective solutions. Certain activities like shaving can cause micro-irritation to this delicate skin area. When you shave, you remove skin cells with each stroke. Using a deodorant infused with niacinamide (vitamin B3)can help restore your natural tone and help your skin recover.

This skin irritation can create discoloration in underarms and sometimes changes in texture, leaving many wondering what is uneven skin tone and how to address it.

Infographic explaining how to keep sweat and odor at bay

How different skin tones experience discoloration

Armpit discoloration isn't one-size-fits-all. It can look different on everyone depending on your natural skin tone. Skin discoloration in armpit areas can appears reddish, light brown, or gray depending on your natural complexion. Sometimes underarm discoloration can even change tone or appearance over time.

Understanding what is uneven skin tone and how it presents on your specific skin type can help make sense of armpit discoloration. Many people wonder what causes underarm discoloration without realizing it varies across different skin types.

While searching for the best deodorant for underarm discoloration or uneven skin tone products can help, addressing the root causes of uneven underarm skintone through consistent, gentle care routines provides the most lasting results. Recognizing your skin's unique needs is the first step toward more even-toned underarms.

Simple ways to care for your underarm skin

Armpit discoloration and marks occur naturally and aren't anything to be concerned about, but if you'd like to try and reduce uneven skin tone, there are several gentle approaches you can take:

Try exfoliating before shaving to remove dead skin cells and reduce irritation
Consider changing your deodorant if your current one causes sensitivity or irritation
Give your skin recovery time by occasionally taking breaks from shaving or other potential skin irritants.

Prevention strategies for healthier underarms

Alongside the care tips already mentioned, these preventative measures can help maintain more even-toned underarms:

Mindful clothing choices: Tight clothing increases friction and can trap sweat against your skin. Choose breathable fabrics when possible, especially during exercise or hot weather.
Gentle cleansing: Harsh soaps can disrupt your skin's pH balance and natural barrier. Use mild cleansers that clean without stripping essential moisture like Dove Original Beauty Bar.
Sun protection: Yes, even your underarms need sun protection! UV exposure can intensify existing discoloration.

Hydration: Well-hydrated skin is more resilient. Consider applying a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer like Niacinamide + Even Tone Cream Serum to clean underarms occasionally, especially if you notice dryness.

Remember, your underarm skin deserves patience and kindness, just like the rest of you.

The truth about home remedies

Those late-night scrolls through miracle cures and viral armpit discoloration hacks? We've all been there. But the reality is that many home remedies lack scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness for restoring natural skin tone.

Many commonly suggested approaches haven't been proven effective in addressing skin discoloration in armpits. Always be sure to talk to your doctor or dermatologist if you have any concerns.

Our bodies are wonderfully complex, and caring for them is about sustainable practices rather than overnight transformations.

Caring for underarm skin tone with Dove Even Tone

Looking for uneven skin tone products that actually work? We created our Even Tone antiperspirant deodorants to help restore your natural tone. They provide 48-hour protection while caring for your skin and help reduce the appearance of armpit marks, all while restoring and replenishing natural underarm skin tone over three weeks.

Continuous use helps you maintain your underarms with a more even tone while providing the protection you need.

Whether you prefer an antiperspirant deodorant dry spray or stick, Dove Even Tone has options for you.

Our Even Tone Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick with Shea Butter and Vanilla provides 48-hour protection while caring for your skin.
For those that want a spray deodorant option, try our Even Tone Peach Blossom & Rice Milk Dry Spray that helps visibly restore skin’s natural tone in just three weeks.
Try our Melanin Even Tone Serum Body Wash with Pro-Ceramide when washing to help correct armpit discoloration.

Embracing your skin's journey

Beauty is about feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Armpit discoloration is a normal part of having a body that lives, moves, and experiences the world.