How to Heal Underarm Rash

To heal an underarm rash, the first step is to address the cause of the rash. Avoid shaving and refrain from using scented products to see if the situation improves. Then, follow the necessary steps: wash the underarm area with a mild soap and wear loose, breathable clothing. Apply warm compresses and use moisturizing oils or lotions. Avoid scratching the rash, and consult a doctor if the rash persists after using prescribed medication.

Stop infection in the underarm area caused by blocked hair follicles or irritation. This condition is known as folliculitis, which begins when a hair follicle is damaged for any reason and becomes infected. Luckily, this type of irritation can be prevented and treated.

• Avoid wearing tight clothing around the arms, as friction can cause irritation.
• Wear clothing that allows the skin to breathe, especially if you live in a warm climate.
• Ensure that your skin is not sensitive or allergic to fabric materials, such as wool.
• Wash your clothes with a detergent that doesn’t cause irritation. Limit the use of fabric softeners.

Stop shaving under your arms to identify the cause of your rash. Shaving can cause ingrown hairs and even lead to infection. Instead of shaving, you should try waxing or using hair removal products until the rash clears up.

Discontinue using deodorants, soaps, or powders that irritate your skin. Deodorants often contain aluminum, fragrances, alcohol, and parabens, which can trigger rashes. This is one of the easiest causes of skin irritation to eliminate.

• Try different hygiene products to find the one that works best for you. Start by switching to fragrance-free deodorants. If this doesn’t help heal the rash, try changing your soap (preferably fragrance-free). Consult a doctor immediately if the rash persists.
• If you suspect the deodorant is causing the rash, consider using non-irritating alternatives like:
• Alum (Potassium Alum): Potassium alum is a mineral with astringent and antiseptic properties. Although it doesn't stop sweating, this mineral can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause body odor. It is commonly available in crystal form and is inexpensive.
• Baking Soda: Mix 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda with a little water (without dissolving) and apply it to the underarm area. Optionally, you can sprinkle some baking soda and cornstarch under your arms for a dry sensation.
• Lemon: The citric acid in lemon juice can kill bacteria under the arms. You can cut a slice of lemon and rub it on your underarm area for natural deodorizing. Avoid using lemon juice immediately after shaving.
• Isopropyl Alcohol: Pour isopropyl alcohol into a spray bottle and apply it to the underarm area. For a pleasant scent, you can add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or peppermint. However, it’s safer to avoid using fragrances.

Maintain proper hygiene to avoid fungal infections under your arms. The underarm area is warm and dark, making it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. A rash in this area could be due to poor hygiene, but most rashes are caused by heat, friction, or exposure to allergens.

Consider other potential causes of a rash under your arms. These could include allergic reactions to medications or foods, poison ivy, oak, or sumac, insect bites, or autoimmune disorders like psoriasis. Viruses such as the flu or chickenpox can also cause rashes. You should consult a doctor if you suspect the rash is due to any of these causes.

Follow the necessary steps outlined below. After experiencing a rash under your arms and taking some of the steps mentioned earlier, you should focus on soothing the rash. Follow these steps to help the rash heal.

• Wash the underarm area with a gentle, fragrance-free soap. Pat the area dry afterwards.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton, hemp, or linen. These fabrics allow the skin to breathe better and reduce the risk of folliculitis.
• Drink plenty of water to help your body regulate its temperature efficiently. Water and green tea are the best choices. Avoid energy drinks, coffee, and other diuretics as they can cause dehydration.
• Use over-the-counter antifungal creams or lotions. These products are used to treat fungal infections in other parts of the body such as the feet and groin area.

To soothe folliculitis, you can apply a warm, damp compress to the affected area. A damp compress will help drain the underarm area. Change the compress to a clean one for the next application and avoid using the same compress repeatedly.

Apply soothing oils or lotions to your underarm skin to alleviate pain and discomfort. Oils containing vitamin E may be helpful (though in some cases, vitamin E can cause irritation when applied topically). Additionally, you can use other oils like aloe vera, tea tree oil, or emu oil.

• Applying mild hydrocortisone cream to irritated skin can help heal the rash while preventing further irritation and reducing itching.
• Calamine lotion is also a popular anti-itch cream used for rashes.
• Oatmeal baths: You can purchase ready-made oatmeal products or create your own bath by placing one cup of oats in a cotton cloth or sock and heating it. Once the cloth or sock cools, use it as a sponge for bathing.

Avoid scratching the affected area. Scratching can lead to skin tears, which may result in bacterial or fungal infections. If the itching becomes unbearable, you can use topical ointments like hydrocortisone.

See a doctor if the fungal infection persists despite using over-the-counter medications. The doctor may prescribe stronger medications. In the meantime, you can take Ibuprofen or Aspirin to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Rashes caused by allergies can pose a serious threat to your life. It is important to see a doctor if you experience any symptoms beyond the rash, such as swelling of the face or neck, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness. A purple rash may be a sign of a more severe condition.