People place great value on their physical aesthetics as it enables them to present the best version of themselves. The growth of the cosmetic industry serves as tangible evidence of this ever-increasing trend. With so many cosmetic treatments available, adding that extra radiance to the face and other visible body areas is easier than ever. Yet, for various reasons, underarms often remain an afterthought for many people.

You might get dark underarms over the course of years. While this issue doesn’t affect physical health, it can undermine your overall aesthetics and lead to lower self-esteem, making you hesitant to wear your favorite sleeveless apparel.

Fortunately, there are treatments available that may help lighten dark underarms. Among many options available nowadays, chemical peeling has become quite popular for lightening dark underarms. But is this treatment effective? This blog is intended to provide the answer.

Let’s first discuss the reasons for dark underarms.

Why Do Underarms Turn Dark?

Underarms can turn dark for various reasons, such as

Using antiperspirants or deodorants that contain chemical irritants
Irritation caused by shaving
Friction caused by skin folds or clothes
Increased melanin production, leading to hyperpigmentation
Acanthosis nigricans – a condition characterized by dark, velvety skin in body folds and creases, often caused by an underlying problem like diabetes, obesity, or hormonal imbalance
Addison’s disease – a condition caused by problems with adrenal glands, leading to dark underarms
Hormonal changes, such as abnormal levels of estrogen or progesterone

What is Chemical Peeling?

Chemical peeling is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate and peel off its top layers. The new skin layer that grows after the treatment is smoother, more youthful, and less pigmented. The types of peeling solutions used in the treatment can be classified as light, medium, and deep peels. Each of these peeling solutions differs based on the targeted skin depth.

Chemical peeling, as with other skin areas, can be performed on dark underarms. This treatment aims to reduce hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and other pigment irregularities in the underarm skin, thereby improving the appearance of the armpits.

Does Underarm Chemical Peeling Treatment Work? Is it Effective?

In short, yes. Chemical peeling has been found effective in treating dark pigmentation of the underarms. Glycolic (alpha-hydroxy) acid, salicylic (beta-hydroxy) acid, and trichloroacetic acid are well-known chemical peeling solutions for dark underarms. When applied, these solutions peel away the top skin layer, revealing a new skin surface that is lighter in tone and smoother in texture.

In addition to improving skin pigmentation, chemical peeling might help reduce the infamous underarm odor. Glycolic acid-based chemical peels help lower the armpits’ pH level, potentially reducing the proliferation of odor-causing bacteria.

Other benefits of underarm chemical peeling include

Reduced scarring caused by cuts during shaving.
Skin exfoliation.
Treatment of skin problems, such as acne and mild irritation.

How Is Underarm Chemical Peeling Performed?

The clinical underarm chemical peeling procedure is generally performed in an outpatient setting. Before starting the treatment, the dermatologist or aesthetician cleans the underarm area.

You won’t usually need a numbing agent for a light peel. However, medium peels may require topical anesthesia or sedatives beforehand.

Once the treatment area is prepped, the practitioner will perform the following steps.

The dermatologist will apply a chemical solution containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid to the underarm skin. The treated area will start to whiten shortly afterward.
The chemical solution may cause a stinging sensation.
Mild chemical peels are neutralized with a specific solution or by washing the treated area. In contrast, medium peels do not need neutralizing, but your doctor will apply a cold compress to soothe the treated region.

The procedure’s protocols may vary from person to person, depending on the candidate’s preferences and other specifics of the treatment.

Important note: Chemical peels consist of acidic solutions that, if mishandled, can cause adverse effects on the skin. Therefore, you must get this treatment from a qualified practitioner only.

Post-Procedure Care

Proper care of the treated area after underarm chemical peeling is vital to achieving the desired outcome. Your doctor may advise you to adhere to the following post-procedure guidelines

Use a cold compress to soothe irritation or burning sensation caused by the peeling solution.
Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area until it is fully healed, and continue to protect it from sunlight by using sunscreen.
When cleansing the treated region, do so gently until the skin has fully healed. Cleanse the skin with cool water and mild soap, and use the pads of your fingers during the process.
Apply a moisturizer as directed by your healthcare provider to soothe the skin and help prevent dryness.

With these steps, you should have a smooth and comfortable recovery, although individual experiences may vary. If you feel persistent pain or irritation, speak to your dermatologist or healthcare provider.

What Are The Side Effects Of Underarm Chemical Peeling?

Underarm chemical peeling is a topical treatment provided in a clinical setting and is safe for most individuals. However, since this treatment involves using an acidic solution that exfoliates the skin, it may cause some side effects, such as

Redness for a few days post-procedure
Flaking that may last more than a week
Skin itchiness with a stinging sensation
Increased sensitivity of the new skin to sunlight
Rare risk of infection

Are Underarm Chemical Peeling Results Permanent?

The results of underarm chemical peeling can be long-lasting but may not be permanent. Over time, factors like sun exposure, irritation caused by deodorants and friction, and hormonal fluctuations may lead to the darkening of underarms again.

However, taking good care of your skin can help delay this pigment change. Discussing your skincare regimen with a qualified practitioner is essential to prevent your underarms from getting dark.

Wrapping Up

Dark underarms not only affect your body aesthetics but may also cause low self-esteem. On the other hand, lighter-toned armpits enhance your beauty profile and contribute to a well-groomed appearance. Chemical peels may be an effective way to lighten dark underarms and achieve the said benefits.

Schedule A Consultation

For more information regarding chemical peels in Dubai, visit our clinic today. Our experts at Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic will guide you about the treatment and its benefits in detail. We offer an initial consultation to all our patients. You just need to fill in the form given below and we will book your appointment for consultation as soon as possible.