As we head into the hottest part of summer, people will start to wear less clothing and show more skin. This could be embarrassing if there is acne anywhere on the body. One of the lingering and questionable gifts from adolescence, acne can show up anywhere, including the armpit. The combination of sweat, dirt, deodorant, stubble and skin under the arm makes for an ideal environment for acne to break out. An all natural option is available and all you need are a few kitchen staples.
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Recently featured on The Doctors, acne treatment for under the arm includes having an Armpit Facial. During adolescence, acne breaks out because of hormonal changes but adult acne largely occurs due to clogged pores. The skin under the arm is susceptible to acne due to the accumulation of clog-poring impurities: flaky skin, stubble, dirt, deodorant and sweat. Throw a razor into the mix and the friction from shaving may only worsen the situation.
According to Dr. Drew Ordon, "You need to give the skin in your armpits facials just as you would on other parts of your body." After deep cleaning the area, as you would the face, he recommends applying an all natural Armpit Facial, which is largely astringent and consists of citrus and alcohol:
- 1 to 2 tsp of lemon juice
- 1 to 2 tsp of lime juice
- 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol
The acidic properties of the lemon and lime juice help destroy bacteria, close up pores and even help with staining that may occur from frequent shaving. After the shower, Dr. Ordon recommends spraying the mixture over the armpit area to get the most benefit from the home made astringent.
In severe cases of acne, be it on the face or the armpit, professional treatment may be necessary. This type of acne typically includes cysts and pus which may need to be drained prior to any form of acne treatment. Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a severe form of acne in which the apocrine sweat glands in the armpit, groin or buttock areas are blocked with fluid, dead skin and other matter. HS causes painful boils that fill with pus which eventually burst.
Quite painful, the boils are often recurring and often cause scarring. According to San Diego Acne Treatment provider Dr. Tess Mauricio, treatment includes lancing the boil and corticosteriod injections. The corticosteriods help with inflammation as to bring the boil down before it can burst and scar. It is important to note that this is only a treatment and not a cure so future visits may be necessary if there are repeated flare-ups.
