A 4 Step Plan That Will Refresh Your Armpits and Prevent Irritation and Odor

Sometimes, your armpits can get a bit funky. When sweat mixes with bacteria on the skin, it can cause odor, according to Dr. Maral Skelsey, a dermatologist based in Maryland. If your usual routine of washing and deodorizing isn’t keeping you fresh throughout the day, it might be time to give your armpits some extra care. Dr. Skelsey suggests that a simple skincare routine for your underarms can help keep them feeling clean.

First things first, if you’re experiencing excessive sweating, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist to explore potential medical treatments or underlying conditions, advises Dr. Skelsey.

But if everything seems normal and you just want to take better care of your pits, incorporating a refreshing routine every few weeks to once a month can help in keeping bacteria away and maintaining healthy skin. Below, Dr. Skelsey shares a four-step underarm skincare regimen that you can customize based on your skin’s sensitivity and preferred products to prevent irritation.

1. Exfoliate gently in the shower

Exfoliating your armpits can help remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling soft. Dr. Skelsey recommends using a body scrubber with your favorite body wash for a gentle exfoliation. Make sure to use a new loofah to prevent bacteria buildup, advises Dr. Skelsey.

For those who can tolerate it and are not sensitive to fragrances, a body scrub like the one from Drunk Elephant can provide exfoliation and nourishment using natural ingredients like coffee seed oil, raw sugar, and almond milk blend. Alternatively, you can try a DIY solution using baking soda on a warm washcloth for mild exfoliation and odor reduction.

2. Shave (if desired)

If you choose to shave your armpits, exfoliating beforehand can help prepare your skin for a smoother shave. Using a moisturizing shaving cream like the one from EOS and a single-blade safety razor, such as the Maapilim Safety Razor, can help minimize irritation, especially for those with curly hair.

3. Moisturize after drying off

After showering, applying a moisturizer to your armpits is essential, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Opt for a fragrance-free lotion like Lubriderm’s Moisturizing Lotion enriched with vitamin B5 to help restore your skin’s barrier before applying deodorant.

4. Maintain with antiperspirant, deodorant, or antibacterial products

To maintain freshness and prevent odor, consider using antiperspirants, deodorants, or antibacterial products. Antiperspirants block sweat glands to reduce sweating, deodorants combat odor, and antibacterial products eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Apply antiperspirants at night to allow time for them to be effective and consider using clinical strength versions for better results. Daily use of deodorant, such as Malin+Goetz Bergamot Deodorant, and glycolic acid pads like Surface Deep Anti-Odorant Pads can also help in keeping your underarms fresh and odor-free.

By following these steps and choosing products that suit your skin, you can revitalize your armpits and maintain freshness effectively.

Featured Image by Cliff Booth via Pexels