Why are my armpits itchy?
7 ways to get rid of itchy armpits
What are
itchy armpits?
An itchy armpit is when your underarms feel irritated or uncomfortable and you get the urge to scratch or rub the area.
Itchy armpits can be caused by many reasons such as poor hygiene, excessive heat or dry skin patches. Itchiness in the underarms can feel really uncomfortable, so read on to learn more about how to get rid of it and prevent it from coming back.
What are
the symptoms of itchy armpits?
Sometimes you might notice an itchy armpit without any redness, where your skin feels irritated but shows no visible signs. This could be due to dry skin or sensitivity to products you use under your arms.
Do reach out for medical help if the itchiness doesn’t go away or is accompanied by severe pain or other general symptoms, as it could indicate an infection or other illnesses, sometimes serious.
- Itchiness or irritation in the underarm, ranging from mild to severe.
- Red patches under your armpits.
- Swelling, bumps, or armpit pimples.
- Rashes in the underarm area.
- Itchy armpit without redness, where the skin feels irritated but shows no visible signs (often due to dry skin or sensitivity to products).
9 Reasons
why your armpits are itchy
Itchy armpits can be caused by a variety of factors such as:
When your underarms are exposed to too much heat, your sweat glands can clog up and cannot release sweat properly. This makes them swell, resulting in itchy, painful bumps under your arms.
Keeping your underarms clean is vital to preventing itchy armpits. Underarms harbour many different kinds of bacteria. A build-up of sweat and dirt on the skin can encourage these bacteria to multiply, which could cause itchy skin. So it’s important to use a suitable gentle cleanser to remove dirt without irritating your skin.
This usually happens when an area is not shaved correctly, which can lead to irritation or itchiness. If you develop a razor burn or rash, take a break from shaving for a few days and let your skin heal.
This occurs when your skin is exposed to an irritant or an allergen, leading to redness and irritation. Such substances can include soaps, laundry detergents, or certain deodorants. These types of reactions under your arms are common and can be triggered by ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, or certain preservatives found in personal care products. A skin rash caused by deodorant may show up as redness or a burning sensation under your armpits after applying deodorant. This may be an allergic or irritant reaction. Wash the area thoroughly to remove any residual deodorant and prevent the situation from getting worse. Consult a specialist to find out which ingredients you should avoid if you have an allergy.
This is a rash that occurs in moist areas of skin folds. It appears as a red or brown rash that can cause itchiness and burning sensations. It’s often infectious in origin, but can also be linked to other conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
This happens when a hair follicle grows sideways under the skin. This can lead to boils or pimples under your armpits, which are often red and painful to the touch.
If you have sensitive skin, you may be more prone to itchy armpits. Some deodorants can cause irritation, especially on sensitive skin. Try using gentle, alcohol-free products with a fragrance designed for sensitive skin to help prevent itchiness.
Underarm pain along with a small lump may indicate an inflamed lymph node. This is often a sign of a fungal or bacterial infection, so you should consult a doctor.
Some cancers, such as lymphoma or rare breast cancers, can cause itching. If you experience any other symptoms or have any doubts, always check with your doctor.
If you're experiencing extreme symptoms, it’s best to seek medical attention.
Why do
my armpits itch at night?
A burning or itchy sensation in your armpits at night could be due to several reasons. Most itchy conditions can get worse at night because of heat and excessive sweating. If this happens to you, make sure your bedroom is well ventilated and use light bed linen and clothing that lets your skin breathe. If you experience itching, pain or excessive sweating for no clear reason, it’s advisable to consult your doctor to check for any potentially serious illnesses.
care for armpits prone to itching
Here are some methods you can try to help treat itchy underarms along with symptoms such as armpit pimples:
- Anti-itch creams or lotions:
Over-the-counter anti-itch creams that contain ingredients such as Calamine can help you get rid of itchy armpits. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. They will be able to help you choose the most appropriate treatment for you and tell you about any precautions to take.
- Moisturiser:
Applying a moisturiser such as the NIVEA Repair & Care Lotion can help soothe itchy armpits, particularly if the skin there is dry.
- Anti-chafing powders:
Anti-chafing powders help reduce bacteria and lessen the discomfort caused by skin rashes by reducing friction in your armpits.
Home remedies:
Warning: Certain home remedies are sometimes recommended to soothe itching. However, do be careful before using them. Even natural substances can have side effects, and many of them can cause allergies or contact dermatitis, particularly essential oils. Always seek the advice of a health professional if you're not sure. - Cooling:
Ice cubes can help soothe and relieve your skin from irritation and itching. Just make sure you don’t apply them directly onto bare skin; wrap them in a clean towel or kitchen roll and then apply to the skin.
- Aloe vera:
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and cooling properties which can help soothe and relieve itchy armpits. Follow the advice of a specialist to find out how to apply it and what precautions to take.
The NIVEA Derma Control
deodorant range
Discover the NIVEA Derma Control deodorant range, designed to provide 72-hour* protection while caring for your underarms. Available in three specialised formulas, Defend, Restore and Natural Tone are all formulated to be gentle on your skin, making them an ideal option if you’re prone to itchy armpits.
The NIVEA Derma Control Defend Deodorant is formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Provitamin B5 to help protect sensitive skin from irritation caused by shaving and rubbing against clothing, while leaving it feeling soft and comfortable.
The NIVEA Derma Control Restore Deodorant is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E, protects against feelings of irritation and helps restore the balance of your skin barrier after shaving, for beautiful, softer underarms.
The NIVEA Derma Control Natural Tone Deodorant contains Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C, designed for sensitive skin with uneven tone, helping support a smoother, more even look.
All options combine Hyaluron with skin-loving ingredients, offering effective protection without harshness. Choose NIVEA Derma Control for lasting freshness and gentle care, tailored for sensitive skin.
*Instrumental test, 21 to 22 participants depending on the product
6 ways to
help avoid itchy armpits
Here are a few measures you can take to help prevent itchy armpits:
Avoid scratching or rubbing your skin as that may worsen the condition.
Wear loose cotton clothing and avoid materials like wool that can irritate sensitive skin.
Practise good hygiene such as showering regularly and making sure you wash your armpits thoroughly with a skin-friendly product.
Wash clothes and towels regularly, making sure to use fragrance-free detergents.
- Keep your skin moisturised to avoid dry skin that can lead to itchiness.
Use a deodorant or antiperspirant that is made to be gentle on the skin, such as the NIVEA Derma Control Deodorants, to help limit the risk of sensations of irritation and itchiness.
Which NIVEA deodorant range
is right for itchy skin?
NIVEA's deodorant ranges include simple deodorants, which protect against odour, and antiperspirant deodorants, which protect against both odour and perspiration. Because of their high efficacy, antiperspirants are generally the most popular and include a wide range of products, some of which are specially designed for dry skin, sensitive skin or skin prone to itching. The Derma Control range, formulated without alcohol (ethyl alcohol), is ideal to help soothe itchy, sensitive skin.
Summary
Itchy armpits can be caused by factors like poor hygiene, allergic reactions, dry skin, or irritation from shaving. To relieve discomfort, use soothing products, maintain good hygiene, and avoid harsh chemicals. If the itching keeps coming back or gets worse, do seek medical advice to rule out infections or underlying conditions.
