Got a scratchy, itchy rash in your armpits? You are not alone and yes, it is as bad as it sounds. Armpit rashes can appear out of nowhere due to sweat, chafing, shaving, or even your trusty deodorant. While they rarely mean something is wrong, they can make everyday activities (like moving your arm or wearing clothes!) downright painful.
Also Read: Prickly Heat: Home Remedies To Calm Your Skin This Summer
The silver lining? You don't have to run to the pharmacy straight away. Nature has a trick or two up its sleeve to soothe the irritation. From aloe vera to cold compresses, these home remedies can bring instant relief and have your skin heal in no time.
In this short blog, we introduce to you a complete knowledge of armpit rash and examination of the best natural ways to treat armpit rash and get back to fresh and irritation-free skin.
(Add To Cart From Our Impressive Collection Of Moisturisers, Creams, Lotions, To Get Soft Skin Without Chafing, Dryness And Rashes!)
What is Armpit Rash?
Armpit rash is a form of underarm skin irritation, often in the form of itchiness, redness, bumps, or flakiness. Underarms are warm and damp, an ideal environment for bacteria, sweat, and friction to irritate the skin. Armpit rashes can be caused by excessive sweating, harsh deodorant, shaving, an allergic reaction, or even fungal or bacterial infection. Although the majority of the cases are minor and transient, they can be extremely uncomfortable, particularly when exacerbated by motion, tight clothes, or heat.
Also Read: Chafing: Simple And Effective Home Remedies To Soothe Skin Irritation
7 Natural Home Remedies To Treat Armpit Rash At Hom
If your underarms itch, turn red, or become irritated, don't panic. You don't necessarily need medicated creams or chemicals to relieve the discomfort. Mother Nature has a treasure chest of gentle, yet potent ingredients that can soothe inflammation, calm itchy feelings, and speed up healing.
Try these 7 natural, dermatologist-recommended home remedies with ease:
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a holy grail of upset skin. Fresh gel directly from the aloe leaf or 100% pure store-bought works like magic on armpit rashes. It moisturizes the skin, calms the redness, and helps heal faster due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Spread a thick layer to clean skin, allow it to dry, and reapply 2–3 times a day until the rash disappears.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural emollient with high antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory traits. It targets any underlying bacteria or fungus that can be present in the rash and deeply nourishes dry, flaky skin because of its high lauric acid content. Apply a thin layer of virgin or cold-pressed coconut oil to the affected area following underarm cleansing and drying.
Apple Cider Vinegar (Diluted)
This pantry staple is an antibacterial and pH balancer for the skin. Mix raw apple cider vinegar and water in equal proportions, then lightly apply the solution to the rash with a cotton ball. Prevents fungal infection and soothes irritation. Don't use on cracked, broken, or very sensitive skin as it stings.
Cucumber Slices or Juice
Cucumber is anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and cooling, perfect for calming an itchy, burning rash. Place sliced cold cucumber against your underarms or put freshly squeezed cucumber juice on a cotton pad. The topical soothing chemicals of cucumber calms redness and make the skin feel rejuvenated.
Calendula Cream
Calendula or marigold has been used for centuries as a medicinal treatment for minor rashes and skin irritation. It acts to prevent infection because of its antifungal and antimicrobial properties and helps in healing because of its calming properties. Use a calendula cream or ointment 2–3 times a day on clean skin for the natural healing process.
Tea Tree Oil (Diluted)
This strong oil is highly antifungal and antibacterial. Just be sure to dilute tea tree oil first when applying to the skin. Blend 2–3 drops with a teaspoon of a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil. Gently rub the mixture on your rash with clean fingers or a cotton pad. It will fight infection and reduce swelling well for rashes from sweat or bacterial accumulation.
Neem Paste or Oil
Neem is an Ayurvedic skincare must for its application in inflammatory skin conditions. Neem is antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral, and thus ideal for rashes in the armpits due to infection or sweating. Just grind fresh neem leaves into a paste and apply on the rash. Alternatively, use diluted neem oil for a hassle-free solution. Apply twice a day for faster relief.
Preventing Armpit Rashes
Prevention is always preferable to cure, especially in the case of something as irritating as rashes under the underarms. Here are easy pointers to make sure your underarms are free from rashes:
Apply mild, fragrance-free deodorants: Steer clear of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin.
Wear loose fabrics: Wear cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics to avoid sweat accumulation.
Dry and clean your armpits regularly: Wash yourself often, especially after sweating, and pat dry the area instead of rubbing.
Don't shave too often or dry shave: Always use a new razor and shaving gel or shaving cream.
Test new products on a small skin area first: Especially when using body washes, deodorants, or skincare.
When To See A Doctor?
Most armpit rashes resolve with home treatment, but some symptoms need medical treatment. Visit a dermatologist or healthcare provider if:
The rash becomes worse or spreads after several days
You see pus, blisters, or extreme pain
The skin becomes hot, swollen, or infected
Over-the-counter and home remedies do not offer relief
You experience repeated rashes or suspect an allergy
Repeated or severe rashes could be a sign of an underlying condition like contact dermatitis, eczema, or fungal infection that needs special treatment.
Conclusion
Armpit rashes may be no big deal, but the pain becomes unbearable if left unchecked. Thankfully, nature brings us different soothing, potent remedies to heal your skin and soothe your underarms all without leaving the house. With some changes in your lifestyle and TLC, you can get the underarms smooth, fresh, and irritant-free and avoid future outbreaks.
Got sensitive skin? Your armpits will love to be treated gently and choosing the natural way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long would it take for an armpit rash to heal naturally?
Most small rashes improve 2–5 days with proper care and home remedies.
Can deodorants induce armpit rash?
Yes, especially those with alcohol, artificial perfume, or irritating preservatives.
Is it safe to use these remedies on children?
Yes, but to milder alternatives like oatmeal, coconut oil, or aloe vera, and always patch test.
Do I calm armpit rash using powder?
Yes, talc-free powders or cornstarch can be employed to absorb excess moisture, but use sparingly.
Are armpit rashes contagious?
Not usually, but if caused by fungal or bacterial infection, perhaps so by means of shared towels or clothing.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
- https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/armpit-rash
- https://nationaleczema.org/blog/armpit-rash-deodorant/
Previous
