Are you experiencing an underarm rash that is itchy, red, blotchy, flaky, bumpy, or tender? A rash under the arm can be caused by many different sources, however most are from a simple irritant. Discovering what is causing the underarm rash is your first step in treating the problem.
Most underarm rashes are caused by some form of skin irritation from the use of a hygiene product. Try and remember the first time the rash started to develop. Did you recently switch to a new deodorant, body spray, shave-gel or laundry detergent? Many of these products contain certain chemicals that can react adversely when in contact with certain individual’s skin.
Contact Dermatitis & Your Underarm Rash
This form of irritation is known as contact dermatitis and can be remedied by simply discontinuing the use of the culprit product. Stop the use of your new deodorant or other
product that’s been in contact with the affected area for a few days and see if the rash clears up. Most allergic reactions from contact dermatitis are non-life threatening and can also be caused by reactions to certain metals in jewelry, poison ivy, or even a simple insect bite under your arm. Other allergies that can cause an underarm rash are foods that you are allergic to. Food allergies can bring on sudden acute reactions that restrict breathing so it is important to stop consumption and consult with a doctor immediately if you experience any acute symptoms.
If you shave your underarm you may have irritations caused by an ingrown hair or the
damage of the hair follicles over time. Not taking proper care of the underarms leads to folliculitis which is the infection of your hair follicles under the arm. You should stop shaving for several days and monitor your underarm rash to see if it subsides. Try using an aloe-vera lotion over the infected area to promote healthy skin re-growth and it is always important to take in the proper amount of Vitamin C per day because it supports healthy skin.
Medical Condition Causing Your Underarm Rash
Rashes under your arm may also be caused by a medical condition. Autoimmune disorders can show signs of redness on the epidermis (outer layer of skin) to signal that there is something wrong on the inside of your body. An autoimmune disorder causes the body to attack itself and could lead to serious health concerns if left untreated. If you are experiencing an ongoing rash however, it may also be from common skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. Treating an underarm rash caused by a medical condition should always be left to a physician or dermatologist where proper diagnosis, treatment and monitoring can be practiced.
Some other common causes for an underarm rash are friction from restricting clothing, extreme heat build-up in the armpit, and fungal infections. It is important to keep the underarm cool, dry and wear clothes that are loose fitting in the armpit region. Fungal infections are common because the underarm is the perfect environment for yeast to thrive in (moist and dark).
Treating an underarm rash usually is as simple as removing the irritant causing the skin to break out. If you are sensitive to scented products or other similar hygiene goods; you may find that you should only use unscented products. Take proper care to keep the underarm dry and cool. If an underarm rash does not subside, gets worse or spreads to other areas of the body; you should visit a doctor immediately to ensure the underarm rash is diagnosed and treated properly.
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