Fact Checked
An armpit rash is also known as pruritus and causes discomfort and irritation. It causes itching in the armpits and redness of the affected area.
Types
- Atopic dermatitis or eczema usually develops in the folds of the body such as the back of knees, inside the elbows and in the armpits. It is red, itchy and crust over.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin irritation caused by overproduction of sebum or skin oils. It appears at oily patches of flakes or scales which can white or yellow due to excess oil.
- Contact dermatitis happens with a direct contact with an allergen or irritant such as fragrances found in the deodorant or lotion; laundry detergent or the fabric of the clothes.
- Candida which is due to fungus or yeast infection can become severe during hot weather, wearing tight clothing and poor hygiene.
Symptoms of armpit rash
- Severe itchiness
- Inflammation of the affected area
- Redness and swelling of skin
- Development of blisters
- Formation of black or red colored patches
- The area becomes scarred and red due to constant scratching
- Bacterial infections due to skin folds and sweat glands
Avoid staying in hot, sticky and humid climates to lessen rashes on the armpits.
Causes
- Not cleaning the armpit regularly becomes susceptible to develop armpit rash.
- Chemical allergy when using harsh soaps or deodorant on the armpit
- Fungal and yeast infection
- Excessive sweating or axillary hyperhidrosis
- Skin problems such as inverse psoriasis
- Heat rash
Treatment
- Apply cool compress on the armpit. Place few ice cubes in a plastic bag and then wrap it with a towel before placing to the area for at least 10-15 minutes several times every day to lessen the swelling and the inflammation. Avoid ice directly on the skin to prevent further irritation and worsen the condition. Another alternative is placing a damp towel on the rashes is also good for the condition.
- Avoid staying in hot, sticky and humid climates to lessen rashes on the armpits. Stay in an air-conditioned room or use a fan to cool down. Heat rash will develop as tiny bumps filled with clear fluid and produce severe pain.
- Drink plenty of liquids to stay hydrated and keep the body cool. Drink cool tea and water to prevent overheating of the body and lessen the development of rashes on the armpits. Avoid coffee, energy drinks, and other diuretics to prevent dehydration.
- Apply medicated anti itch creams that contains ingredients such as aloe Vera, vitamin E and menthol to lessen the itchiness and the irritations.
- Fill a bathtub with warm water. Grind 6 cups of unflavored rolled oats using a food processor until it becomes fine. Add 2-3 cups of oatmeal powder mix them well until totally dissolved and then soak the armpit in the tub for at least 10-15 minutes. Pat the skin dry using a towel.
Tips
- Wear loose clothing made of natural materials such as cotton to lessen development of rashes.
- Use mild detergent when washing clothes, avoid using fabric softeners.
- Wash armpits regularly using a mild fragrant-free soap and warm water. Another alternative is washing the armpit gently using soft and wet washcloth. If suffering from heat rash, use cool water in washing the area and let it dry in air.
FACT CHECK
https://www.wikihow.com/Heal-Armpit-Rash
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-an-armpit-rash