best aesthetic clinics in Dubai
Dark underarms, also known as armpit hyperpigmentation, is a common aesthetic concern. In fact, many individuals are embarrassed to wear their favourite clothes or head out in public in their swimwear for fear of being judged for their dark underarms.
If this is you, you’ve reached the right place! Hortman Clinics, the top dermatologist-led clinics in Dubai, offer some of the most advanced dark underarm treatments.
In this blog, we’ve got you all you need to know about what’s causing your dark armpits, and the best solutions available for you!
What Causes Dark Underarms?
There are several reasons for darkened underarms. Let’s take a look!
-
Increased melanin production
Excessive melanin production in the underarm area can lead to darkening or hyperpigmentation. -
Shaving and hair removal
Darkened underarms are common among people who shave or use hair removal methods in the underarm area. This is because friction and micro-injuries from razors irritate the skin, eventually leading to thickening and darkening of the underarm area. -
Dead skin build-up
In many individuals, a lack of exfoliation can lead to the accumulation of dead cells. This dead skin build-up can lead to darkening of the underarms. -
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Following skin irritation or inflammation, many individuals experience darkening of their underarm area. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and can be a cause of your dark underarms. -
Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy or due to chronic conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) can affect the skin tone and result in darkening of certain areas. -
Friction from clothing
Wearing excessively tight clothing can increase friction in the underarm area, irritating the skin. Over time, this can increase pigmentation and dark underarms. -
Genetics
Some people are prone to dark underarms due to their race or family history, making them genetically predisposed to this cosmetic concern.
Dark Underarms and Hair Removal: Shaving vs. Waxing vs. Laser
While shaving offers a quick and painless option of hair removal, it is widely known to cause or worsen dark underarms. This is primarily attributed to razor friction and ingrown hairs, which lead to more pigmentation over time.
Waxing, on the other hand, pulls hair from the root for longer-lasting smoothness (3-4 weeks) and may gradually lighten skin with regular use by exfoliating dead cells, though it can initially irritate sensitive underarm skin.
Laser hair removal is one of the best and most sought-after long-term options for hair removal and addresses dark underarms by targeting follicles to reduce hair growth by 70-90% after 6-8 sessions, while fading pigmentation through melanin absorption.
Laser hair removal is therefore the ideal solution for hair removal and lighter underarms for Indian skin types.
Other conditions that cause Dark Underarms
In addition to the causes of dark underarms mentioned above, other causes include:
- Acanthosis nigricans (associated with insulin resistance)
- Allergic/contact dermatitis
- Smoking
- Fungal infections
Is It Normal to Have Dark Underarms?
Having dark underarms is more common than you think. In fact, people with darker skin tones tend to have underarms that are a shade or two deeper than the rest of the body. This variation is primarily due to the high melanin content in their skin and does not indicate disease.
So, if you have darker underarms but no associated symptoms, they may be a cosmetic concern.
Darker underarms become medically significant when the darkening is sudden and is accompanied by other signs and symptoms.
When to seek medical evaluation for dark underarms?
You must seek a consultation with a dermatologist if the darkening of your underarms is sudden, spreading, associated with thick, velvety skin or skin tags, or accompanied by itching or a foul odour. These symptoms, along with the dark underarms, indicate an underlying medical condition which requires evaluation by a medical professional.
Advanced Treatment for Dark Underarms at Hortman Clinics
Dark underarms often require advanced aesthetic treatments when pigmentation is deep, long-standing, or caused by repeated irritation, hormonal factors, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These treatments target pigmentation at multiple skin layers for safer, faster, and more permanent improvement.
At Hortman Clinics, the top centre for medical laser treatment for hyperpigmentation in Dubai, the most popular treatments for helping you get rid of dark underarms include the following:
Laser treatment is considered the gold standard for treating dark underarms. At Hortman Clinics, the award-winning laser treatment centre in Dubai, laser procedures are performed under the supervision of none other than Rebecca Treston.
How does laser treatment work for dark underarms
Advanced lasers target excess melanin in the underarm skin while improving texture and reducing hair-related irritation at the same time.
Why is it beneficial?
- It targets pigmentation at deeper skin levels
- Reduces hair growth (eventually leading to a lesser need for shaving, fewer growths and less pigmentation)
- It is safe for all skin tones, including those with darker skin tones (when the correct settings are used)
When is laser treatment recommended for dark underarms?
Laser treatment for dark underarms is advised in the case of:
- Moderate to severe pigmentation
- Shaving- or waxing-induced darkness
- Thick, coarse underarm hair
How effective are lasers in treating dark underarms?
- You can see visible brightening in 3 to 6 sessions
- You can ensure long-lasting results with period maintenance sessions
Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling combines the radiofrequency energy with microneedling, stimulating the remodelling of pigmented skin. It also boosts collagen production and improves overall skin tone.
Why is it beneficial?
RF microneedling is effective in treating underarm pigmentation:
- Treats pigmentation + skin texture
- Improves thin, crepey underarm skin
- Works well when lasers alone aren’t enough
When is RF microneedling preferred?
- Pigmentation with loose or textured skin
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
At Hortman Clinics, we use the most advanced chemical peels for lightening dark underarms, including TCA peels, Modified Jessner Peels and Combination peels comprising AHA/BHA and brightening agents.
TCA Peels
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are typically used at concentrations of 15% to 35% and penetrate deeply to resurface skin, treating acne scars, wrinkles, and pigmentation. TCA peels induce controlled epidermal necrosis for collagen remodelling, with downtime of 5-7 days. These peels are ideal for medium-depth rejuvenation in Fitzpatrick types I-IV.
Modified Jessner Peels
These new-age peels are a blend of resorcinol, salicylic acid, and lactic acid and can be customised for varying depths. Modified versions of this peel reduce irritation via lower resorcinol, targeting melasma, acne, and fine lines. With the Modified Jessner peels, you can expect mild flaking in 3 to 5 days, and this suits sensitive skin better than a traditional Jessner peel.
Combination AHA/BHA + brightening agents
Glycolic/lactic (AHA) plus salicylic (BHA) acid present in these peels exfoliate your skin superficially, while brightening agents like niacinamide, vitamin C, or arbutin added to the peels help lighten areas of hyperpigmentation.
These peels are gentle and can be used weekly. They help brighten tone, control oil, and minimise pores with minimal downtime.
Why are chemical peels effective in treating dark underarms?
- They offer controlled depth penetration
- They remove pigmented skin layers safely
- Stimulate new, evenly toned skin
What are chemical peels best for?
- Surface and mid-level pigmentation
- Uneven tone and rough texture
Microinjections of glutathione, tranexamic acid, vitamin C and peptides are directly administered into the pigmented skin. These injections are advanced and effective for the following reasons:
- Targets melanin production directly
- Faster results than topical creams
- Improves skin quality and brightness
This treatment option is best for the following clinical scenarios:
- Dark underarms caused by hormonal or genetic pigmentation
- Dark underarms that are resistant to other treatments
At Hortman Clinics, our team uses innovative treatments that combine different therapies to effectively lighten your underarms. One such treatment is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with skin-brightening agents, which improves cell regeneration and pigmentation control.
Why does it work?
- It is a natural regenerative approach to lighten your dark underarms
- It improves skin healing and tone
- It reduces recurrence risk
This treatment is best suited for you if you have:
- Sensitive skin
- Post-inflammatory pigmentation
Other advanced combination therapies that are used at Hortman Clinics include
- Laser + Chemical Peels
- RF Microneedling + Mesotherapy
- Laser Hair Removal + Brightening Treatments
These protocols address
- Pigment
- Hair follicles
- Skin thickness
- Recurrence prevention
In addition to in-clinic treatments, we offer advanced at-home maintenance solutions:
- Medical-grade brightening creams
- Gentle chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA)
- Laser hair removal instead of shaving
- Avoid fragrance-based deodorants
How Long Do Advanced Treatments Take to Work to Lighten Dark Underarms?
Different treatments take varying times to show results. For example:
- Laser: It takes 4 to 6 weeks
- RF microneedling: Gives evident results in 6 to 8 weeks
- Chemical peels: 2 to 4 weeks
- Mesotherapy: 3 to 5 weeks
Who Is a Good Candidate for Underarm Lightening?
Dark underarm treatment is recommended for you if you have
- Persistent hyperpigmentation due to shaving, waxing, friction, or acanthosis nigricans
- No active skin infections, open sores, or severe eczema in the underarm area.
- Have realistic expectations and a willingness to follow a regimen (topicals, peels, or laser) and to make lifestyle changes, such as switching to gentler hair removal methods and avoiding tight, abrasive clothing.
Unlike popular opinion, dark underarm treatment is recommended for people with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick III–VI) as well. However, to ensure the best results with minimal side effects, we at Hortman Clinics tailor treatments to your specific skin concern.
Do I need advanced treatment for dark underarms?
You may need advanced treatment if:
- Creams haven’t worked
- Pigmentation keeps returning
- Underarms are thick, rough, or textured
- There is a hormonal or genetic component
How much does dark underarm treatment cost?
The cost of lightning dark underarms depends on the treatment plan chosen by your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon and the therapies and technologies used. The price also varies depending on the number of sessions.
At Hortman Clinics, a laser hair removal session for underarm lightening starts at AED 200 per session. We also offer package pricing for treatments that have multiple sessions. Call our team to know more.
Are Advanced Dark Underarm Treatments Safe?
If you are contemplating treatment for your dark underarms, one question that may have often come to mind is “Are these treatments safe?”
Yes, they are! Advanced dark underarm treatments are safe and effective when they are performed by trained and certified professionals using proper protocols.
However, you may experience temporary side effects, such as:
- Mild redness
- Sensitivity
- Temporary darkening before lightning (normal process)
- Temporary redness
- Mild irritation
Why Choose a Hortman Clinics for Lightening Dark Underarms?
Looking for the best clinic for lightening your dark underarms? Choose Hortman Clinics for the following benefits:
- Uses advanced devices and ensures safety
- Treatment plans are tailored to individual skin concerns
- Backed by experienced cosmetic experts and dermatologists
Key Takeaway
Dark underarms are embarrassing, but they should not affect your lifestyle or confidence. At premier luxury clinics like Hortman, you can find the most advanced treatments, such as lasers, that act with precision and target the pigmentation in the underarm area.
Hortman Clinics also uses combination protocols, such as laser plus microneedling or mesotherapy, to give you the best, longest‑lasting results by addressing both surface and dermal pigmentation.
At Hortman Clinics, you will undergo a professional assessment to help the cosmetic surgeon select the right advanced treatment for your skin type and the underlying cause of dark underarms.
Book your underarm pigmentation assessment today and receive a personalised treatment plan for brighter, more even underarms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your underarms are meant to be slightly darker than the rest of your body. However, if you are concerned or embarrassed about their dark colour, visit us at Hortman Clinics for a personalised evaluation.
While hair removal itself does not cause darkening of your underarm area, repeated shaving, waxing or the use of harsh chemicals can irritate the skin in the region and trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This causes your underarms to look darker.
Your dark underarms can return if the root cause has not been addressed or removed. Maintenance care and lifestyle changes are key to sustaining results.
Laser treatment can be safe for darker skin when performed by an experienced clinician using appropriate wavelengths and conservative settings. Using a poor technique or wrong parameters can cause burns or further darkening. For this reason, our experts at Hortman Clinics use a Fitzpatrick‑skin‑type–based assessment before devising your treatment plan.
Topical lightening creams have limited effects and work best for mild to moderate underarm pigmentation.
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