Causes of Underarm Rash and Treatment

Key takeaways:

• Armpit rash can be caused by heat rash, dermatitis, fungal infection, or allergic reactions.
• Treatment options for rashes in the armpit include prescription medications, home remedies like aloe vera or coconut oil, and OTC antifungal creams.
• Preventive measures include good hygiene and wearing breathable fabrics.

An armpit or underarm rash is when the skin under the arm becomes inflamed, red, or itchy. Blisters, scales, or lesions may sometimes appear, causing pain and discomfort.

Underarm rashes are common and can be caused by infection, allergies, or friction. Finding the main reason and getting the proper treatment can help prevent or treat the rash and its recurrence.

Some of the potential causes of armpit rash include:

1. Heat rash (miliaria)

Miliaria, or heat rashes, are produced due to the blockage of sweat ducts in the skin, especially in hot and humid environments. This blockage causes entrapment of sweat under the skin, particularly under the arms.

Miliaria rash looks like clusters of small, red, itchy patches. If the condition worsens, it may cause the skin to become inflamed.

2. Contact dermatitis

Armpit rash is also caused by contact dermatitis, a skin reaction produced by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. The allergens are often found in routinely used products like deodorants, soaps, and detergents.

The symptoms of contact dermatitis appear as red, inflamed, itchy patches and sometimes as tiny blisters or raised bumps, especially if the skin is in contact with the allergen for a prolonged time.

3. Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition typically seen in various body areas, including the underarms. Its symptoms include red swollen patches, which can become dry and scaly over time.

Eczema is more common in individuals with a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or other atopic conditions.

4. Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a skin condition in which inflammation occurs in body folds where skin touches skin, such as the underarms. It occurs when friction, warmth, and moisture combine to create the perfect environment for irritation.

The symptoms of intertrigo include red, sore, and itchy patches, which become painful over time. In severe cases, intertrigo can cause secondary infections from bacteria or fungi, further worsening symptoms.

5. Fungal infections

Fungal infections can also cause armpit rashes because underarms provide a moist environment for growth in fungi such as tinea (ringworm).

The symptoms of fungal infections include an uncomfortable, itchy rash, usually seen as red patches with a slightly raised texture. The armpit may appear scaly or flaky. The condition can be persistent or even worsen with sweating.

6. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that forms thick, scaly, and often inflamed patches on the skin. These patches can also appear in the armpits, particularly if psoriasis affects areas where skin folds or friction occurs.

Psoriasis usually appear as dry, silvery scales on red patches of skin. Psoriasis can be caused by stress, infections, or certain medications.

7. Hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a skin condition that causes the development of painful, swollen lumps under the skin, especially in areas with many sweat glands, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts. These lumps may rupture, releasing fluid or pus, which can lead to the formation of abscesses.

As time passes, the lumps caused by hidradenitis suppurativa may heal, leaving behind scars and, in some cases, small tunnels under the skin.

8. Allergic reactions

Some skin care products, such as deodorants and antiperspirants, contain fragrances, preservatives, or other irritants. When these products are used under the arms, they can cause redness and irritation.

People with sensitive skin are more sensitive to these types of allergic reactions.

Treatments for armpit rash

Treatments for armpit rash depends on the underlying cause and may vary from medications to home or natural remedies.

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications

If armpit rash is of a mild to moderate nature, the following OTC products can be used:

• Hydrocortisone cream: This can reduce itching and inflammation caused by rashes resulting from infections, allergic reactions, detergents, soaps, and cosmetics.
• Antifungal Creams: For mild fungal infections, OTC antifungal creams like clotrimazole or miconazole can be used to treat the skin condition.
• Moisturizers: Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching from dry skin conditions.
• Antihistamines: To clear allergic reactions or other itchy rashes, use over-the-counter oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine or loratadine.

Prescription medications

For severe armpit rash, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend medications depending upon the cause, such as:

• Topical Steroids: Topical steroids may be prescribed for inflammatory conditions like eczema or psoriasis to reduce redness, swelling, and itchiness.
• Antifungal Creams: Prescription-strength antifungal creams are prescribed if infections do not respond to over-the-counter options.
• Antibiotics: Topical or oral antibiotics may be necessary if armpit rash is due to bacterial infection.

Home and Natural Remedies

Here are some home and natural remedies that may help treat underarm rashes:

• Consider using aloe vera gel as it has natural anti-inflammatory and cooling properties.
• Coconut oil may be applied to the irritated area as it has antimicrobial properties.
• A cool, damp cloth applied to the affected area for a few minutes can help reduce itchiness and inflammation.
• Using colloidal oatmeal baths may help soothe irritated skin.

Prevention

Tips for preventing armpit rash includes:

• Wash armpits daily with hypoallergenic soap and dry thoroughly to prevent moisture.
• Use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free deodorants or antiperspirants.
• Wear loose and breathable fabrics like cotton to avoid sweat accumulation.
• Manage existing skin conditions with the treatments recommended by your doctor.
• Keep the skin moisturized to minimize irritation caused by dryness.

When to seek medical care

Reach out to your healthcare provider if:

1. The rash gets worse with time.
2. The rash causes pain and inflammation.
3. You notice pus or infection or fever.
4. The rash spreads to other parts of your body.
5. You suspect it is a sign of a chronic conditions like eczema.