Discover the causes of itchy armpits, from common skin conditions to rare concerns like lymphoma. Learn treatments and when to seek medical advice.
Is that persistent underarm itch driving you crazy? You're not alone! Itchy armpits can be more than just a minor annoyance—they can disrupt your day and leave you searching for relief. The good news is, understanding the cause is the first step toward soothing that itch. Join us as we discuss the causes and how to treat this common annoyance, so you can get back to feeling your best.
What’s Making My Armpits So Itchy?
First, you need to know that itchy armpits can happen for many reasons. Your armpit is a sensitive area of your body where skin rubs against skin frequently. This is something that can definitely cause irritation. Common things that cause itchiness include rashes, allergies, and not cleaning quite as well as you need to. Deodorants and even how you shave can also cause your skin to feel scratchy. An itch can also be caused by skin conditions or health problems. Let’s figure out what’s causing you to experience itchy armpits and learn to take steps to stop it once and for all.
Possible Causes of Itchy Armpits
Let’s talk about why your armpits might be itching and how you can finally get rid of that annoying discomfort. Here are some common causes of itchy armpits as well as itching anywhere on the body.
1. Skin Irritation from Deodorant
No one wants to smell bad. So, using deodorant every day seems like a no-brainer, especially if you have overactive sweat glands. Deodorants with alcohol, fragrances, or aluminum can irritate sensitive skin, even if you've used them for years. The aluminum and metal salts that are found in deodorants can cause itching when glands clog up and cannot release sweat naturally. Burning, a red rash on the skin, or itching can be a sign of a deodorant rash. Switching to a hypoallergenic or unscented product may help reduce irritation.
2. Shaving and Razor Burn
Shaving keeps your underarms smooth and can help with body odor, but it can also bother the skin if not done properly. Shaving with a dull razor or not using a moisturizing cream can cause razor burns and ingrown hairs. Always use a sharp razor and a good gel. Be sure to soothe the skin with moisturizer afterward. If a rash appears, clean the area well, and use a good moisturizing cream to keep the area comfortable. Razor burn, and lack of skin moisturizers used in the armpits, is one of the typical things that causes them to swell and itch. Be sure to use quality deodorant to help prevent skin rashes in the armpits.
3. Poor Hygiene
Let’s be honest. Sometimes, when we get busy, we skip showers, or we don’t scrub as thoroughly as we should. While no one likes to have dirt on the skin, not washing your armpits regularly can lead to sweat, dirt, and bacteria buildup, causing itchiness and odor. Wash daily, use mild soap, and keep the area dry to prevent raw, itchy skin. If you are using a shared shower, like in a college dorm or a campground, be sure to wear shower shoes so you can avoid fungus that can lead to athlete's foot, which is an itchy, contagious, fungal skin infection.
Another thing to pay careful attention to is the moist areas of skin including between the buttocks, the toes, and skin folds under the breasts to make sure they are thoroughly dried after bathing. A rash in the skin folds can be not only itchy, but can also cause irritation and painfully raw skin. Skin can become bothered by excess moisture, and this may cause itchy armpits.
Paying attention to the things that can cause a rash, and making small changes to your routine will help you with a soothing fix to keep your armpits comfortable and free from that irritating itch.
Could Itchy Armpits Be a Sign of Cancer?
Serious health conditions can occasionally cause itching in your armpits, but you'll be happy to know that itchy underarms are rarely a sign of a serious illness, so don't panic! Taking steps for preventative care, like regular doctor’s visits, is a key element in making sure your body is healthy.
What If It's More Than an Itch?
If you're dealing with intense itching along with swollen lymph nodes, it’s understandable to feel concerned. While it is rare, itching combined with swollen lymph nodes or with excessive itching or inflamed skin in the armpits may be a sign of a more serious issue, and it’s important to be checked out by a doctor. Certain types of cancers, like lymphoma or inflammatory breast cancer, can cause both itching and swollen lymph nodes as well as pain in the armpits that comes on suddenly or with no known reason.
In addition to cancer, conditions like diabetes can also lead to persistent itching, especially when it’s related to fungal infections. People with diabetes are more prone to fungal infections in skin folds, called intertrigo, in the underarms, due to trapped moisture and increased friction. Intertrigo is a rash that if left untreated, can become uncomfortable and difficult to manage. It's important to keep sweat and dirt out of the creases in skin to help ensure a rash or infection does not set up. A doctor may recommend specific treatments to help manage both the fungal infection and the underlying cause of the itching.
Other symptoms that may be a sign of lymphoma, breast cancer or other serious illness include;
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of Appetite
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Abdominal Pain
- Chest Pain
- Painless Breast Lump
- Nausea
If you're experiencing these symptoms alongside itching, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. Early detection is vital, and doctors have a variety of effective cancer treatment options to address both cancer and other underlying conditions like infections or chronic diseases.
How to Get Rid of Armpit Itchiness
When it comes to the human body, there’s probably not much that is more annoying than having an itch. This is especially true of the itch is in your armpits. When you have a bad itch, there has to be a way to calm it, right? Absolutely! You’ll be happy to know that using products like soothing creams offer a great way to fight an itch, even in the armpit area of your body. Armpits itch when they are dry and irritated. This occurs when the skin isn't taken care of. How do we take care of our skin? We keep it clean, and moisturized.
Soothing creams work by moisturizing your skin while calming the irritated skin down, and they’re a great way to give you much needed relief from things that irritate your skin and cause an annoying itch.
Types of Soothing Creams to Treat an Itchy Rash
There are quite a few soothing creams that people will grab from the store shelves when they have itchy skin. One of the most widely used soothing creams is hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone creams come in a variety of brands and can be found in most pharmacies. Hydrocortisone can cause side effects that include stinging, itching, acne, and even premature aging. It’s recommended for short term use only. Prolonged use of topical steroids can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include skin irritation, hair loss, depression, mood changes, and more.
Another popular option is calamine lotion, often used for bug bites, poison ivy, or poison oak. Aloe vera is another soothing choice, especially for keeping skin hydrated after sun exposure. Creams with oatmeal also help to relieve itchy skin while keeping it soft and moisturized.
For a safer, longer-lasting, and faster-acting alternative to topical steroids like hydrocortisone, many people have turned to Dermeleve®.
Dermeleve provides fast relief without the risks associated with steroids, making it a great choice for soothing itchy armpits and other sensitive areas.
Find Relief with Dermeleve: Your Go-To for an Itch
If you’re struggling with itchy, irritated skin, Dermeleve is here to help. This non-steroidal cream is specially designed to soothe and calm your skin without the side effects that can come with steroid creams. Whether it’s for those itchy armpits or other sensitive areas, Dermeleve provides fast, effective relief.
One of the great things about Dermeleve is how it not only tackles itchiness but also reduces inflammation and forms a protective barrier on your skin. If you’ve been avoiding steroid creams, Dermeleve is a solid alternative for keeping your skin comfortable and irritation-free.
Using Dermeleve the Right Way
It’s super simple to use Dermeleve. Start by gently washing the affected area with mild soap and warm water, then pat it dry with a soft towel. Apply a small amount of the cream directly to the itchy area. If you’re not seeing improvement after a week, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor. Also, before using Dermeleve for the first time, test a small patch of skin to make sure there’s no reaction. And remember, less is more, so don’t overdo it!
Soothe Rashes in Skin Folds
If you deal with excess moisture and inflammation in skin folds (like under the arms, or in areas where the skin rubs together), Dermeleve is especially helpful. These spots can become red, itchy, and uncomfortable due to moisture and friction. Whether it’s intertrigo, heat rash, or irritation from sweat that is causing itchy armpits, Dermeleve steps in to calm the skin and stop the itch.
A Cream That Works with Your Skin
For conditions like contact dermatitis, heat rash, or just general unhealthy skin, Dermeleve is a go-to solution. The ceramides in Dermeleve help your skin heal faster and keeps you feeling comfortable, no matter what’s causing the problem.
If you’re tired of battling itchy, irritated skin, try Dermeleve. It’s designed to give you the relief you need without the hassle of steroids, so you can get back to feeling good in your own skin. It even has shea butter to help keep skin hydrated and healthy so you can be safe and not have to use dangerous chemicals that can dry and irritate your skin.
Let’s recap a bit about Dermeleve and how it can help soothe your skin:
By using Dermeleve, you can:
- Calm Your Skin: It helps reduce inflammation and soothes the skin.
- Find Itch Relief With No Steroids: Ideal if you prefer to avoid steroid-based creams.
- Protect Sensitive Skin: It creates a barrier to shield your skin from further irritation.
How to Use Dermeleve:
- Clean the Area: Gently wash the affected area, like your armpits, with mild soap and warm water. Pat dry with a soft towel.
- Apply the Cream: Evenly spread a small amount of cream on the itchy area.
- Follow the Instructions: Always read and follow the directions on the label.
- Consult a Professional: If the itching doesn’t improve after a week, consult a healthcare provider.
- Perform a Patch Test: Test the cream on a small patch of skin to ensure there’s no adverse reaction.
- Avoid Overuse: Applying too much can lead to irritation, so stick to the recommended amount.
- For Kids and Sensitive Skin: Consult a doctor before using the cream on young children or on sensitive skin.
Dermeleve is hypoallergenic and fragrance free, 100% steroid free, safe for all skin types, and adheres to strict guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed research to ensure it provides safe and reliable relief for itchy skin and not face the risks associated with topical steroids.
Fast Ways to Prevent Itching
One of the easiest ways to stop an itch is to avoid the things that bother your skin in the first place. You might not know this, but a lot of everyday products can actually cause skin irritation.
Think about deodorants and antiperspirants. If they have strong fragrances, alcohol, or aluminum, they can quickly lead to skin reactions and itching. Even your laundry detergent could be an irritant because those harsh chemicals can linger on your clothes and make your skin feel miserable. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon don’t help either. They trap sweat and rub against your skin, which only makes things worse. And don’t overlook personal care items like soaps, lotions, or shaving creams. If they’re loaded with heavy fragrances or dyes, they can really wreak havoc on your skin.
To avoid these issues, it’s a good idea to choose products that are labeled “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin.” Fragrance-free options are usually much gentler on your skin too. Clothes made from natural fibers like cotton or bamboo are softer and let your skin breathe. When it comes to laundry, pick detergents that don’t have dyes or perfumes, and if you want to be extra cautious, rinse your clothes again to wash out any leftover soap. When you’re trying out a new product, do a patch test on a small area of skin first, just to be sure you won’t have a reaction. Loose-fitting clothes can help reduce irritation by cutting down on friction. If your skin does become irritated, stop using whatever’s causing the problem, clean the area gently, and apply a soothing cream. If things don’t get better, it’s smart to check in with a healthcare provider.
A Few More Quick Tips
If you’re someone who tends to get bacterial infections, using an antibacterial soap might help, but don’t use it too often, as it can dry out your skin and also cause itchy armpits. Wearing natural fabrics like cotton can also make a big difference by helping your skin breathe and reducing sweat. Finally, to avoid germs and irritation, try not to share personal items like towels, razors, or clothing that touches your underarm.
Wrap Up
Itchy armpits can be caused by a variety of factors, from skin irritation and hygiene habits to more serious health concerns. Understanding these causes allows you to make informed choices in managing your skin. For fast, effective relief, especially in sensitive areas like your underarms, Dermeleve offers a soothing, non-steroidal solution. Its hypoallergenic formula calms irritation and does not have the harsh side effects of traditional creams.
Don’t let itchy, irritated skin hold you back. Try Dermeleve today for long-lasting comfort and protection, so you can get back to feeling confident and comfortable in your skin!
FAQs
Q: Can deodorant cause itchy armpits?
A: Absolutely! Some deodorants, especially those with fragrances, alcohol, or aluminum, can irritate sensitive skin. Consider switching to a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free option if you experience irritation.
Q: Is itchiness under the armpits a sign of cancer?
A: While it's uncommon, persistent itchiness in the armpit area can occasionally be linked to more serious conditions like lymphoma or breast cancer. If the itch persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a doctor.
Q: How can I prevent itchy armpits?
A: Maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding products with harsh chemicals, wearing breathable fabrics like cotton, and keeping the area dry are all effective ways to prevent itchy armpits.
Q: Can Dermeleve be used on all areas of the body?
A: Yes, Dermeleve is a safe and effective cream for all areas of the body including areas that are considered intimate or sensitive. It can even be used on skin that is thinning due to aging, sun exposure, and other causes.
Q: How does Dermeleve compare to other creams?
A: Dermeleve stands out because it's specifically formulated to relieve itchiness quickly and safely, with no steroids or other ingredients that can thin the skin over time. Its gentle formula makes it ideal for frequent use.
Q: Is it safe to use Dermeleve on sensitive areas like the armpits?
A: Yes, Dermeleve is safe to use on sensitive areas, including the armpits. Its hypoallergenic formula is free from harsh chemicals, making it a great choice for soothing itchiness in delicate skin areas. Dermeleve requires strict sourcing guidelines and relies on ingredients developed by dermatologists to safely use on sensitive areas like the armpits as well as most other parts of the body.