Underarms Treatment in Gurgaon

Melanocytes are the cells responsible for producing melanin pigment in the body. Melanin gives the skin its color. An increase in the synthesis of melanin can contribute to the darkening of skin. Repeated shaving or plucking may also stimulate the excess melanocyte production. 

However, anyone can develop acanthosis nigrasis, though people with darker skin are more likely to develop darker underarms than lighter skin. Also, if you or anyone in your family has acanthosis nigrasis, you are more likely to develop the same.

Weight gain and obesity are among the primary causes of acanthosis nigricans. Additionally, type 2 diabetes leads to insulin resistance, which causes the body to produce too much insulin and results in the formation of black spots. Thyroid issues and other related hormonal diseases, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, can also cause acanthosis nigricans. Other causes include genetic or hereditary, medication-induced, or certain types of cancer.

1. Benign or idiopathic AN: It is usually harmless and can be improved with weight loss and lifestyle changes.
2. AN associated with insulin resistance and diabetes: It is often associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Addressing the insulin resistance is essential to treat this type of acanthosis nigricans.
3. AN associated with hormonal disorders: Hormonal disorders such as PCOS and disorders of the adrenal glands may lead to the development of acanthosis nigricans symptoms
4. Malignant AN: It is associated with certain types of cancers and tends to appear suddenly. Managing the underlying cause is essential to treat and manage this type of acanthosis nigricans. 
5. Drug-induced AN: Certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, corticosteroids, etc., have been associated with inducing the symptoms of drug-induced AN.
6. Syndromic AN: Certain genetic syndromes, such as syndromes associated with mutations in the FGFR3 gene, have been associated with inducing the symptoms of syndromic AN. 

Acanthosis nigricans commonly affects the areas of skin creases and folds, due to high friction. It usually first develops on the back of the neck (nape) and underarms, but it can also appear on the groin folds, beneath the breasts in women, on the elbows, knuckles, knees, and face. It can also affect other parts of the body, such as the palms, soles, or navel.

Symptoms of acanthosis nigricans

A gradual development of black, dark brown velvety patches of skin, appearing on the skin folds and creases, is one of the common and significant symptoms of acanthosis nigricans. Sometimes, you may also experience skin tags, and rarely, a foul smell. Acanthosis nigricans may affect the following body areas. 

• Back of the neck
• Under the breasts
• Behind the knees
• Face 
• Navel
• Palms and soles of the feet
• Toes and knuckles
• Groin folds

Tips to get rid of dark underarms

• Moisturization

Regular shaving or plucking underarm hair can cause dark patches under armpits​. Moisturizing helps in reducing irritation. You can also choose a shaving foam or soap that is suitable for sensitive skin and use it before shaving. Use a natural, odorless moisturizing lotion after shaving to reduce irritation and prevent changes in the skin.

• Natural remedies

Several natural remedies can help with the underarm pigmentation removal​. 

1. Curcumin pigment found in turmeric
2. Milk thistle
3. Lemon juice
4. Sea cucumber extract

Consult a dermatologist in Gurgaon before trying any DIY treatments for black spots under arms​, to avoid any allergic reactions. 

• Cleanse your underarms gently

Avoid scrubbing, using a loofah, brush, or towel to scrub or exfoliate the underarms harshly.  Physical exfoliation may cause the underarm pigmentation to darken.

• Glycolic-based body wash

Use an exfoliating body wash that contains glycolic acid to reduce dead skin and dark patches under armpits​.

• Apple Cider

everal body cleansers that contain apple cider may help to brighten the underarms and reduce the appearance of dull skin.