So you have itchy armpits? Here's what you should know...
Introduction
Itchy underarm rashes are not only uncomfortable, they can be quite embarrassing. Unfortunately, they can occur in almost every age group and may be caused by a variety of reasons.
If you've been experiencing an itchy armpit rash, you may be feeling frustrated at the lack of relief and wondering what options are available for you. From over-the-counter treatment to more specific medical intervention, there are a number of strategies you can pursue in order to get relief from this potentially embarrassing problem.
In this article, we'll discuss what causes an itchy armpit rash and provide practical tips on how to address it quickly and effectively—so you can get back to enjoying life without worrying about an itch in your armpit. Let's get started!
Identifying the Cause of an Underarm Rash
When it comes to skin rashes in the armpit area, the cause can vary. It's important to narrow down what's causing your rash before you start trying to find solutions. There are a few common causes for an itchy armpit rash that you should be aware of:
* **Yeast Infections** - Yeast infections are not just a vaginal issue, they can also occur anywhere on your body, especially where you tend to sweat a lot. Yeast infections are an overgrowth of yeast that collects in a certain area, if left untreated it becomes very uncomfortable and itchy. The key is to kill the candida, that is the only way to take the itching and rash away. There are some natural remedies to help with this, Blissful products are one of them, one of the main ingredients is vinegar with will neutralize the yeast to combat it.
* **Allergies** - You may have an allergic reaction to certain detergents, soaps, or fabric materials like wool. If this is the case, switching up your laundry detergent or splurging on softer fabrics might just do the trick.
* **Friction** - Armpit rashes can also happen due to chafing and irritation that occurs through activities like exercise or even just wearing clothing that is too tight. If possible, wear looser clothes and make sure to apply some good antiperspirant/deodorant and powder during workouts.
* **Bacterial Infections**- Sometimes the bacteria clostridium tetani can enter through broken skin and start digging further into the area causing a red itchy rash. To avoid this type of infection, be sure to clean any open cuts or wounds in your armpit area and always apply a bandaid!
Natural Remedies to Soothe Itchy Armpits
If you're looking for a more natural route for your itchy armpit rash, you have some options. For starters, try moisturizing your underarm area with coconut oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Not only can it help reduce the itching and burning sensation, but it's also a great way to keep your skin hydrated to prevent further irritation.
Another natural remedy for an itchy armpit rash is aloe vera gel. The cooling and healing properties found in aloe vera gel can be applied directly onto the affected area to reduce redness, inflammation, and discomfort caused by the rash.
You can also find relief with oatmeal baths or compresses. Oatmeal contains compounds called avenanthramides that are thought to have anti-itching and anti-inflammatory effects that help soothe skin irritations like rashes or dryness. Simply add one cup of oatmeal to warm bathwater and soak in it for 15 minutes or use an oatmeal compress on the affected area up to three times a day.
When You Should See a Doctor
If your itchy armpit rash doesn't go away on its own or with home remedies, it may be time to see a doctor. For example, if the rash is accompanied by fever, itching all over your body, or a feeling of malaise and fatigue, you should have it checked out by your doctor. It's also advisable to seek professional help if the rash has lasted for more than two weeks despite using over-the-counter remedies.
You may need to switch to a medicated cream or oral antibiotics prescribed by your doctor if the rash has become infected or is still persistent after some time. If the rash turns out to be caused by an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS or thyroid disorder, then you should follow up with treatments that target that specific condition. In any case, consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine what's causing the itchy armpit rash and get you headed in the right direction towards relief.
Dieting and Lifestyle Changes to Manage Rash Symptoms
The good news is, you can take several proactive steps to minimize the symptoms of an itchy armpit rash and get that incessant itching under control.
### Dietary Changes
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics can be beneficial for managing an armpit rash. Increasing your intake of anti-inflammatory foods such as leafy greens, fish, nuts and seeds can also help reduce the redness and discomfort associated with this condition.
### Lifestyle Adjustments
These simple lifestyle changes can also help reduce the symptoms of an armpit rash:
- Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing to allow for better air circulation
- Avoid using harsh soaps or skin irritants on the sensitive skin of your armpits
- Wipe away sweat frequently to help keep the area dry
- Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells, which can accumulate in the folds of your armpits
- Use a mild moisturizer to soothe any itching or burning sensation associated with the rash
Home Remedies for Yeast Rashes and Candida Overgrowth
Yeast rashes and candida overgrowth can cause an irritating armpit rash that won't seem to go away with regular treatments or lotions. Fortunately, there are some home remedies that can help soothe the itch and heal the rash quickly.
### Apple Cider Vinegar
The anti-fungal properties of apple cider vinegar can help reduce the growth of yeast and kill any bacteria that may be causing the rash. Simply dilute one tablespoon of the vinegar in a cup of warm water and drink it twice a day for best results. For direct application, mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar and use a cotton ball to apply it to your underarms.
### Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another natural anti-fungal that can help fight off yeast infections and keep your skin moisturized. Simply apply a generous amount of warm coconut oil directly on your armpit rash twice a day for several days until you see an improvement in the symptoms. Repeat this daily until your rash is completely gone.
### Tea Tree Oil
This essential oil has powerful anti-fungal properties that can help get rid of an armpit rash in no time flat! Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut or almond oil, then apply it directly to your underarms 2-3 times per day until the rash disappears.
How to Prevent Itchy Armpit Rash Reoccurrence
No one wants to experience an itchy armpit rash more than once, so what can you do to prevent reoccurrence? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
### Keep Sweat Minimal
Sweat contributes to the development of armpit rashes as it traps moisture. To reduce the likelihood of future rashes, be mindful of how much you sweat and take necessary steps to control it. Wear breathable fabrics while exercising and wash your armpits with an antibacterial cleanser after sweating or showering.
### Choose Natural Products
The detergents, fabric softeners, and other household products used in our daily lives can increase the risk of an itchy armpit rash. When possible, switch to natural products that are hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, dyes and other potential irritants.
### Change Your Shaving Habits
Make sure you're using a sharp blade when shaving your underarms - dull blades can cause irritation. After shaving, rinse with cold water and a mild cleanser, then apply an aftershave containing aloe vera or chamomile for extra hydration and relief. Finally, avoid using deodorant immediately after shaving - wait for the skin to recover before applying any products.
Conclusion
Knowing what to look for when your armpit rash appears is the first step in getting rid of it. Out of the many possible causes, yeast infections and candida overgrowth are two of the most common.
If you're experiencing an itchy armpit rash, it’s important to identify the root cause and treat it accordingly to get rid of the rash quickly and permanently. Try to use natural remedies and medications to help reduce symptoms and ensure that your overall health and well-being is maintained.
This can help to prevent further yeast infections, candida overgrowth and other associated skin conditions. Remember, prevention is better than cure—keeping your armpits clean and dry, using natural products and avoiding perfumed deodorants is a great way to keep your armpits healthy and rash-free.