Armpit Care 101

We often forget about our underarms. Armpit care isn’t something on most folk’s radar until the sensitive skin there has a reaction.

Why Armpit Care Matters

Armpits are home to sweat glands, hair follicles, delicate skin, and a bunch of lymph nodes. They play a crucial role in regulating body temperature. 

The armpits can be prone to various skin conditions, including irritation, odor, ingrown hairs, and rashes. Additionally, the skin in your armpits is thin and can be more susceptible to chafing and allergic reactions from products like deodorants and shaving creams. 

Not only are they a sensitive region of the body that should be handled with care. Proper armpit care can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and reduce skin reactions. Treating this area with some attention and intention can help it remain healthy.

Here's everything you need to know about taking care of your armpits.

1. Keep the Area Clean

Sweat is a natural part of the body's cooling process, but it can lead to body odor when bacteria living on the skin break it down. Regularly cleaning your armpits helps to remove sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells, prevents that odor. 

Use a mild soap or body wash that's free from harsh chemicals and fragrances to avoid drying out or irritating the skin. Of course we’re going to recommend you use one of our natural soap bars, which is formulated for sensitive skin.

Clean your armpits during your normal shower routine, but make sure not to over-scrub, as this can exacerbate skin sensitivity.

2. Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliating your armpits every 1-2 weeks can help remove dead skin cells and prevent the buildup of products like deodorant, which may clog pores. It can also reduce the chances of ingrown hairs, a common problem for those who shave or wax the area. 

Choose a gentle exfoliator, as underarm skin is thinner and more sensitive than most other parts of your body. 

Some exfoliation options: 

• using a wet, soapy loofa or washcloth
• making your own exfoliant by mixing granulated sugar with olive oil or coconut oil in portions that create the thickness/consistency you like
• purchase a mild scrub specifically for sensitive skin

3. Hair Removal Tips

Any form of hair removal (shaving, waxing, epilation, threading, laser) has the potential to cause irritation, ingrown hairs, and bumps. But that doesn't mean you can’t do it! 

Just minimize your chances of discomfort by utilizing the following tips:

• Shaving: Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth to reduce irritation. Apply a soothing shaving cream or gel to create a smooth barrier. Avoid shaving too frequently or too closely to the skin, as this can cause nicks and cuts.
  
• Waxing: If waxing is your preferred method, go for a professional service or high-quality waxing kit. Figure out which type of wax works best with that particular skin. Hard waxes stick less to the skin than soft, malleable waxes do, so most will find that its better for arm pits.
• Experiment with aftercare product to soothe the skin and prevent irritation. But before experimenting, read the ingredients and ensure they don’t include fragrance.
• Other/general: Allow your skin some time to rest between hair removal and deodorant application. Especially if your deodorant contains ingredients that irritate skin, it will be extra harsh on armpits following hair removal, when skin tends to already be undergoing irritation.
  
  

4. Get Picky About Your Deodorant

Traditional antiperspirants and deodorants often contain aluminum compounds, alcohol, and artificial fragrances, which can cause skin irritation and clog pores. 

When this happens, most people will try switching to natural deodorants made from ingredients like coconut oil, baking soda, and shea butter. These alternatives are gentler on the skin while still keeping body odor at bay. 

But for many people, baking soda (the active ingredient in those types of natural deodorants) will still cause a reaction because of the high PH value. Companies tend to like formulating with it because it’s cheap / cost effective, and still natural, but unfortunately it is highly likely to irritate skin.

If you find that's the case for you, give our sensitive skin deodorants a try. The active ingredients are magnesium oxide and zinc oxide, not baking soda, and it’s combined with other moisture and odor absorbers like diatomaceous earth. It’s the most gentle way to formulate a deodorant.

When transitioning to any natural deodorants, give your skin time to adjust, as some people experience a detox period before their body adapts. There are even armpit detox products out there, though we’re currently not sure how effective they are.

5. Wear Breathable Clothing

Tight clothing around the underarms, especially synthetic fabrics, can trap sweat and bacteria there, contributing to irritation and body odor. 

Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials, which help keep the area dry and reduce friction. This is especially important during physical activities or hot weather when you're more likely to sweat.

6. Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Fragrances

Armpit skin is delicate, so be mindful of the products you apply. Avoid deodorants or soaps that contain irritants like SLS, SLES, parabens, or synthetic fragrances, as they can irritate the skin and lead to rashes or allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free or hypoallergenic options whenever possible.

7. Stay Hydrated

Hydration plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your skin. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps your body flush out toxins, which we really believe reduces the severity of body odor. 

Well-hydrated skin is also less prone to irritation and dryness.

8. Monitor for Signs of Infection or Skin Conditions

Sometimes, the skin in your armpits can develop infections or conditions like folliculitis, eczema, or fungal infections due to sweat, friction, or irritation. If you notice unusual symptoms such as redness, swelling, bumps, or persistent pain, it’s essential to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your armpits is crucial for both hygiene and comfort. By following these simple yet effective tips—keeping the area clean, exfoliating gently, moisturizing, and using natural products—you can maintain healthy, irritation-free skin. Remember, the key is to be gentle with your skin, avoid harsh chemicals, and make choices that support long-term skin health.

When in doubt, always consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations, especially if you have sensitive skin or specific concerns about your armpit health. A little extra care can go a long way in keeping your armpits feeling fresh, smooth, and healthy!