Bumps (a.k.a chicken skin) on your underarms are a common skin issue among women. This unwanted texture is mainly caused by plucking or waxing, as these quick hair removal methods pull out the armpit hair, causing tiny, rough bumps on the skin. Other times, "some people really have the tendency for their skin to create plugs that prevent hair from reaching the surface of the skin, causing bumps," Anna Palabyab-Rufino, a dermatologist at BeautiqueMD shares.
The beauty expert adds, "I think a lot of Filipinas are very much concerned with the appearance of their underarms because our weather encourages us to wear clothes that often expose them.
"Everyone wants to make sure that their underarms are smooth, light in color, and of course, hair-free. In doing so, some people end up causing more harm than good."
Nowadays, there are tons of underarm treatments available in the market, especially online, from scrubs to toners and serums. This is why we reached out to dermatologist Anna Palabyab-Rufino to give us the lowdown on the proper ways to treat bumpy armpits. Read on for her expert advice!
1. Exfoliate regularly.
"Regular exfoliation can help prevent chicken skin," says Anna. Unclogging the hair follicles by removing dead skin cells and residues from your deodorant will lessen the inflammation on your underarms. The dermatologist recommends using a "washcloth or a mild scrub to lightly scrub [your armpits] in one direction," but warns that you should "never scrub too vigorously because it may cause irritation and darkening."
Exfoliate at least once a week. "Don't do it on the same day you shave so as not to irritate it further," adds Anna. "When shaving, use a mild shaving gel to reduce friction."
2. Switch to gentler soaps to avoid irritations.
As you would know by now, the skin on your underarms is thin and super sensitive, so washing it with harsh soaps only dries it out, triggering itch and inflammation. Anne suggests "using a mild, fragrance-free, moisturizing soap to wash your underarms."
Here are some of the gentlest, most armpit-friendly soaps in the market you can start with:
3. Toners and serums that contain exfoliants like retinol and glycolic acid can also soften rough patches on the underarms—but use them with caution!
"Retinol and glycolic acid help peel off the upper layers of the skin [without scrubbing needed], and so they can definitely help prevent chicken skin," Anna explains. "But always remember that the skin on our underarms is much thinner and more sensitive compared to the skin on our faces. Always use products with caution or ask advice from your dermatologist."
4. For quick and long-term results, laser treatments are always a wise investment.
Anna shares, "I would encourage people to invest in diode laser hair removal. After one session, you can expect a significant reduction in hair growth.
"[Exfoliating treatments like] light microdermabrasion and chemical peels can also help [improve the texture of your underarms]." Perhaps, the biggest bonus is how these dermatological treatments effectively lighten the underarms, too.
Ways you can minimize bumps when shaving, plucking, and waxing
For those times when you really can't avoid the razor or the wax, here's how you can minimize forming bumps on your pits:
- - Replace your razor blades from time to time. When you use a dull blade, you're likely to put more pressure on your pits. Using a fresh, sharp blade will lessen the need for you to go through your underarms multiple times.
- - For a smoother shave (and softer pits), moisturize your underarms. Some lotions and creams may contain fragrance and synthetic oils that can irritate your sensitive pits. Try applying an all-natural sunflower oil to minimize the risk of reactions. Rich in vitamin E, the plant-based oil is famous for its ability to soothe irritated skin and soften the armpit hair itself! Massage a few drops of the oil on your underarms before going to bed and wash it all off the next morning.
- - Get a cold compress. If your underarm often has tiny, inflamed bumps right after you shave, a cold compress can help soothe the affected area. This will relieve uncomfortable itching as well!
- - Avoid wearing tight clothes after getting rid of your armpit hair. Tight clothing creates friction, which further irritates your freshly-waxed or -shaven underarm.
*This story originally appeared on FemaleNetwork.com. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
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