Do You Really Need a Special Armpit Care Routine?

Unlike the more exposed parts of your body, your underarms may not get as much attention as they need. No saying rings truer than “out of sight, out of mind” when it comes to your ‘pits! But jokes aside, armpit care matters more than you might think. Left unchecked, this area can become a source of body odor, excessive sweat, skin irritation, and more. Keep reading for tips on how to take care of your armpits properly.

While the entire body has sweat glands, called skin glands or eccrine glands, that help you cool down and regulate body temperature, the glands on your ‘pits work differently. Underarms have apocrine glands, the type of sweat glands found in hair-dense areas, such as the scalp.

Unlike sweat on the other parts of the body, apocrine glands produce a thicker, milkier type of sweat that contains proteins and fats, which bacteria love to feed on. When bacteria break down this type of sweat, it creates a funky odor.

So, when you don’t properly clean them, you can get clogged pores, itchy skin, ingrown hair, and body odor. These issues can also be caused by friction-related irritation and even leftover residue from deodorants and other products.

An armpit regimen doesn’t have to be complicated. Below is a simple armpit care guide to keep your underarms fresh and smooth.

Wash your armpits daily with a gentle, fragrance-free soap or body wash to remove sweat, bacteria, and product buildup, especially on hot days and after working out. Make sure you use pH-balanced cleansers and avoid harsh formulas that can irritate the skin.

Exfoliate once or twice weekly to slough off dead skin and clear the pores on your underarms. You can use a mild physical scrub, a soft washcloth, or even a chemical exfoliant with glycolic or lactic acid. Doing so can prevent ingrown hairs and help brighten dull or discolored armpits.

Yes, your armpits can benefit from extra hydration, too! Shaving, sweating, and friction can dry out the skin. Apply a lightweight, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer after cleansing. Ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, or niacinamide soothe sensitive skin and reduce redness.

Both antiperspirants and deodorants help you stay fresh. Deodorants mask odor, while antiperspirants control sweat. Opt for deodorant on light days and switch to antiperspirant when doing intense activities.

Removing underarm hair helps reduce sweat and bacteria buildup, which can contribute to odor and irritation. Always use a clean, sharp razor and a cream or gel when shaving. Never dry shave! Then, rinse with cool water and moisturize to avoid razor bumps or dark patches. If you prefer waxing or epilating, exfoliate a day before hair removal to reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.

If you’re concerned about dark or uneven-toned underarms, using products like deos, creams, and serums with brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or glutathione can help. 

Try a day and night underarm care routine. During the day, apply Dove Radiant + Care Even Tone + Dark Marks Reducer Roll-On with 3% Niacinamide and Vitamins C & E to reduce dark marks and black spots for more even-toned underarms. At night, use Dove Radiant + Care Deodorant Serum Roll On - Deep Renew with 3% Niacinamide and 10x Collagen to help repair and renew the skin barrier while you sleep.

Consult your dermatologist if you need a more targeted treatment.

Small changes in your lifestyle can also contribute to keeping your underarms sweat- and odor-free, such as:

• Keep hydrated: Drinking water helps regulate sweat and flush out toxins.
• Watch what you eat: Foods like garlic, onions, and alcohol can contribute to strong body odor.
• Wear breathable clothing: Natural fabrics like cotton or sweat-wicking clothes are your best bet, especially on hot days or when working out.
• Give your underarms a break: Skip deodorant occasionally (when at home!) to let your skin breathe.
• Switch things up: If your current deo isn’t cutting it, try a different format, like a serum or roll-on.

You don’t need a 10-step skincare routine for your ‘pits, but a little attention goes a long way. The more time you give to armpit care and hygiene, the more it helps you feel comfortable and confident.