Most people do not spend sufficient time examining their armpits closely, and discovering a bump or a pimple in the armpit can be unnerving. These pimples are usually benign and easy to treat. However, the hard or rubbery pimples should be managed by medical professionals to indicate something more serious.
Pimples generally form at the bacteria buildup at the mouth of the skin pores or the blocked sweat glands. Pimples are common, but if they show up in areas like armpits, they can be a matter of concern, as a pimple in the armpit is not a common thing always.
Pimples are otherwise harmless, and they vanish on their own. Pimples are bumps that are usually small and fleshy. Generally, they show up with no symptoms. Sometimes, these pimples may turn red and, due to inflammation, also cause discomfort and irritation.
But, if the bumps feel itchy, cause pain and produce a discharge, they require immediate medical help. So, wondering how to get rid of a pimple under the armpit?
This article will help you know the best ways to get rid of pimples under armpits if they appear abruptly on your skin. Firstly, do not panic as they are usually not very harmful. Examine the blisters or pimples and try to know the causes.
Causes of Armpit Pimples
There are several reasons why pimples may show up under your armpits. Severe cases require medical help to cure these pimples.
1. Ingrown Hairs
Shaving and other types of skin hair removal are the main reasons for the growth of ingrown hairs. It can lead to the formation of pimples in areas like armpits. Women usually remove their armpit hairs more and suffer the problems of pimples more frequently.
The ingrown hairs form when the hair follicle bents or get twisted to penetrate the hair into the skin. Moreover, dead skin results in clogging of the hair follicles as well. Dead skin leads the hair to grow sideways rather than upwards beneath the skin surface.
Generally, ingrown hairs are not serious problems, but they can create discomfort if they form in sensitive areas of the skin. Other results of the bumps include:
- Itchiness
- Pimples turn red
- Pain and soreness
- Inflammation
- Pus or discharge
Ingrown hair usually disappears after a particular time, but it can indicate the possibility of infections. But, if the problem persists, it is best to take the help of a doctor. There is no particular treatment for ingrown hairs, but there are ways to prevent them.
To prevent the growth of ingrown hairs, try exfoliation to scrub them out. In the case of shaving, use a fresh and clean razor with blades. Run the razor gently on your skin in the same direction the skin hair grows. After completing, wash the skin’s surface and apply moisturizer to restore the smoothness of the skin.
2. Folliculitis
Folliculitis refers to the condition of the skin that causes inflammation of the hair follicle on the skin. Initially, it will only look like a red or a white pimple in the armpit. However, if left untreated and uncared for, they may form into more painful sores that are somewhat difficult to heal.
In more cases, folliculitis can lead to permanent hair loss and scar formation. Folliculitis can make you experience symptoms like:
- Itchiness
- A burning sensation
- Tender and sensitive skin
- Blisters releasing pus or other discharge
- A significant bump or several small bumps
Folliculitis can clear up in few days with care and maintenance of proper hygiene. If it turns serious, approach doctors to recommend medications.
3. Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis forms due to an allergic reaction. This condition leads to the formation of itchy rashes, which can eventually lead to a life-threatening situation. Generally, it recovers within a few weeks. Other than mere bumps, you will also notice:
- Red rashes
- Excessive itchiness
- Inflammation and swelling
- Burning sensation
- Dry skin
- Blisters
Home care is one of the most effective treatments for contact dermatitis. Avoid irritants and allergies. Doctors are there to help you and may advise you to apply a topical ointment to soothe the symptoms of rashes like redness, itchiness, and swelling.
4. Hidradenitis suppurativa
The condition of Hidradenitis suppurativa leads to the formation of painful bumps under the skin surface. It occurs mainly in the regions of the armpits and groin. It usually disappears on its own. However, bumps may reappear again. Other additional symptoms of this condition include:
- Frequent breakouts of pimples
- Foul-smelling pus or discharge
- Scarring
- Skin cancer
On seeing the doctor, he may prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and reduce the inflammation. In severe cases, doctors may recommend the patient to undergo surgery. The application of acne medicines can also reduce rashes.
Natural Remedies for Healing Pimples under Armpit
Home remedies are perfect measurements to avoid pimple breakouts. Home remedies can kill the bacteria and soothe your skin from redness, itching, and swelling.
Here are the best home remedies solutions to your question of getting rid of pimples under the armpit. Follow them to get a flawless underarm.
Good Hygiene
This is the first step to maintain a good and hygienic underarm. Regular washing and cleaning of your armpits will remove sweat, dirt, bacteria, germs, etc. Keep your underarms dry as much as possible. Avoid using antiperspirants as they can clog the skin pore leading to the formation of rashes and pimples.
Proper Hair Removal
Shave your armpits as frequently as possible. Do not forget to use sharp and clean blades and run them on your underarm skin in a downward motion for easy hair removal.
Warm Compress
A warm compress can help to soothe the painful pimples and help them to disappear soon. Usage of Epsom salt will make the mild and warm compression more effective. Use this method at least two times each day until the bumps go away.
Tree Tea Oil
Tree Tea Oil is a perfect remedy as it carries anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, it is a natural antimicrobial. Apply this at least twice daily, along with a few drops of coconut oil. It will surely show remarkable results within a week.
Coconut Oil
This oil helps to moisturize the skin and can reduce itchiness and swelling too. The lauric acid in coconut oil also carries antibacterial properties.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera contains enzymes that enriching skin and is a natural moisturizer too. It also has the qualities of anti-inflammation and anti-bacterial.
Honey
Honey is a great agent for healing skin infections. It is antibacterial and also carries medicinal qualities to heal wounds and injuries.
Oatmeal Scrub
Oatmeal carries skin-healing and anti-inflammation properties.
Green Tea
Green tea is full of antioxidants and is also anti-inflammatory.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can dry up the excess oil of the skin and carries brilliant healing properties too.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Use the raw and unprocessed apple cider vinegar in diluted conditions. Moreover, apple cider vinegar acts as a perfect antibacterial and antimicrobial agent.
A pimple in the armpit is a natural and common occurrence. Pimples or bumps usually disappear within a short duration. But, if they don’t, it can lead to increasingly severe skin conditions. In such cases, do not fail to get the required medical assistance. If you see any discharge, bleeding, and other associated symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical help. Self-care is most crucial to avoid the growth of pimples under the armpit skin. Prescribed medicines by doctors will also effectively prevent or avoid the formation of infection and other skin conditions.