An underarm rash can be caused by eczema, sweat, or irritants in deodorants; find out how to identify the causes, relieve symptoms with natural remedies, and prevent future irritation.
Okay, so underarm rash, huh? We’ve all been there, scratching away, right? It’s annoying and uncomfortable. But what *causes* it, and more importantly, what can we do about it?
We’re going to take a look at the causes, what the symptoms are, and how you can treat it.
- Causes of Underarm Rash
- Treating Underarm Rash
- Natural Remedies for Underarm Rash
- Complications of Underarm Rash
- Ways to Prevent Underarm Rash
Causes of Underarm Rash
Rashes and skin irritations under the arms can show up for a bunch of reasons. Here are some of the main culprits:
1. Atopic Dermatitis
This one’s also known as eczema, and it often starts in childhood. It can show up as itchy skin, especially in places where your skin folds, like your elbows, neck, behind your knees, insides of your wrists, and, yep, your armpits.
It shows up as red, scaly patches that itch like crazy. Now, the itching itself can make things worse, because scratching that eczema patch can lead to more irritation. Scratching, in turn, can damage the skin, which can then make it more prone to infection or cracking. And sometimes, scratching can just make the skin thicker over time, which is definitely something you don’t want.
2. Seborrheic Dermatitis
This is when you get a rash under your arms because you’re producing too much oil or your skin’s natural yeast is going wild. It’s different from regular eczema; this type shows up as greasy, scaly patches that can be white or yellowish.
Babies can get it too, and when they do, it’s often called “cradle cap.” You might see yellowish scales under their armpits, or even on their scalp, ears, or face. We’ve noticed, that It’s kind of common actually.
3. Contact Dermatitis
This happens when something you’re using causes itching or an allergic reaction. Some deodorants, soaps, or even detergents can cause contact dermatitis and that leads to a rash under the arm if you’re using those products there.
Also, new or different kinds of fabric might also be responsible for underarm skin irritations.
4. Candida
This is a fungal infection that likes to grow in warm, moist areas of the skin, like under the arm. And surprise! It shows up as a rash.
It can cause intense itching and irritation, and sometimes it can make the area raw and inflamed. Things can get worse in hot weather.
But what if it’s not a rash? Sometimes, the discomfort you’re feeling under your arms might not be a rash at all, but referred pain from another part of your body! Conditions like angina or even certain musculoskeletal issues can manifest as pain in the armpit area. That’s why, while we’re covering rashes here, it’s essential to remember that a doctor’s visit is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Treating Underarm Rash
How do you deal with armpit rashes? The key is to tailor your approach to what’s causing the rash in the first place. Here’s what you need to know:
- Figure out what’s triggering it. What are the things you’re using that’s causing those underarm rashes? A lot of times, it’s something you’ve been using for a while, like a soap or deodorant that your skin suddenly decides it doesn’t like. So, trying to figure out the culprit there, and replacing it can be helpful!
- Follow these tips:
- Wash with gentle, unscented soap.
- Use creams and lotions that are fragrance-free and specifically made to soothe itching.
- Avoid using harsh products.
- Apply cold compresses.
- Resist that itch! Scratching that irritated area can make it way worse, leading to even more irritation and possible infections, so those anti-itch creams are non-negotiable.
- Consider potential allergies. Rashes can sometimes be caused by allergic reactions to food. Pay attention to what you’re eating, look for common allergens in your diet, and keep a food journal. This could help you identify triggers.
- Steer clear of irritants. Certain types of rashes can be triggered by perfumed products. Check that you’re using hypoallergenic products.
Natural Remedies for Underarm Rash
You might also try some natural remedies to ease the rash. Some find them useful for relieving the symptoms. Here’s a few:
- Apply cool compresses to the area.
- Get more vitamin C from natural sources, like bell peppers, tomatoes, and broccoli.
- Use small amounts of oils like coconut or olive oil, patting a little on the rash area.
- Apply a small amount of diluted tea tree oil to the area.
But always talk to your doctor before trying these remedies to make sure they’re right for you.
Complications of Underarm Rash
Ignoring a rash can lead to more issues. If it’s left untreated, it might lead to bacterial or fungal infections. Sometimes this type of infection can cause pus-filled bumps called pustules. These bumps are usually itchy, and they can look different depending on the type and severity of the infection.
The visible symptoms can look like swelling, lesions, blisters, and redness. It’s best to see a doctor if your rash isn’t getting better, or if you’re experiencing these symptoms, after doing all of the above. You should follow all of the advice previously mentioned.
Ways to Prevent Underarm Rash
You can help prevent a rash by doing the following:
- Maintain proper hygiene: Wash regularly, especially after sweating. Avoiding scented products to prevent dry skin, and keeping the area dry.
- Consult with your physician: Talk to a doctor if you think you might have an allergy, and work to eliminate it from your life.
- Avoid tight clothing: Avoid wearing tight clothes that can trap sweat in the underarm area and wear breathable fabrics instead.
- Stay cool: Being in a cool place helps avoid the heat that can sometimes cause rashes. Your sleeping environment should be cool and breezy.
Key takeaways
- Identify and eliminate potential irritants like certain soaps and deodorants.
- Keep the area clean and dry to prevent fungal or bacterial growth.
- Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or worsening symptoms.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Is underarm rash contagious?
It depends on the cause. Rashes caused by infections like fungus can be contagious. Those caused by allergies or irritants are not.
Is it OK to use regular body lotion on an underarm rash?
Maybe not! Fragranced lotions might actually make the rash worse. Stick to fragrance-free options.
Is sweating bad if I have an underarm rash?
Sweat itself isn’t *bad*, but the moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria or fungus. Try to stay dry!
What do I do if my underarm rash smells bad?
That could be a sign of an infection, so definitely see a doctor ASAP.
When should I see a doctor about an underarm rash?
If it doesn’t clear up with home treatment, if it’s getting worse, or if you have signs of an infection (like pus, swelling, or fever), get it checked out by a doctor!
“I used to get these terrible underarm rashes all the time. I tried everything, but nothing seemed to work until I switched to a hypoallergenic deodorant. It made a world of difference!”
“For me, it was all about the clothes I was wearing. Turns out, I was allergic to a certain dye in some of my shirts. Once I figured that out and switched to natural fabrics, the rashes disappeared.”
“I was convinced my rash was just a minor irritation, but it turned out to be a fungal infection. I am so grateful I saw a doctor when I did.”
So, yeah, underarm rashes, they’re no fun! The thing is, listening to your body and not being afraid to try different things (and, let’s be real, see a doctor when needed) can make all the difference. Remember that time I thought I could just tough it out, only to end up with the worst rash *ever*? Lesson learned! Now I’m all about gentle soaps, loose clothing, and knowing when to call in the pros. Here’s to happy, rash-free armpits, everyone!
