How Glycolic Acid Helps Brighten and Smooth Underarms

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your underarms, one of the ingredients you might come across in your search is glycolic acid. This alpha-hydroxy acid has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to exfoliate and brighten dull, uneven skin. But is it safe and effective for use on armpits? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Glycolic Acid?

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane. It is a highly effective exfoliant that works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. It is often used in skincare products to help with a variety of concerns, including acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging.

Is Glycolic Acid Safe for Armpits?

While glycolic acid is generally considered safe for use on most skin types, it is important to approach using acids on sensitive areas, such as the armpits, with caution. The skin in this area is thin and delicate, and using too high of a concentration of acid or using it too frequently can lead to irritation, redness, and even chemical burns.

However, when used properly, glycolic acid can be an effective tool for improving the appearance of the underarms. Look for products specifically formulated for use on the armpits, and start with a low concentration (around 5-7%) to minimize the risk of irritation. Test a small area of skin first and wait 24 hours to ensure there is no adverse reaction before applying it more broadly.

Benefits of Using Glycolic Acid on Armpits

So why might you want to use glycolic acid on your armpits? The most common reason is to brighten and even out skin tone. If you experience darkening or hyperpigmentation in this area, glycolic acid can help to exfoliate away dead skin cells, revealing brighter, clearer skin beneath.

Glycolic acid can also be helpful for reducing the appearance of bumps and ingrown hairs in the underarm area. By exfoliating the skin, it helps to prevent dead skin cells and other debris from clogging hair follicles, which can lead to inflammation and bumps. Additionally, regular use of glycolic acid can help to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the underarm area.

How to Use Glycolic Acid on Armpits

To use glycolic acid safely and effectively on your armpits, follow these tips:

1. Start with a low concentration product (around 5-7%) to minimize the risk of irritation.
2. Apply the product no more than once every two to three days.
3. Avoid using glycolic acid immediately after shaving or waxing, as this can increase the risk of irritation.
4. Consider using glycolic acid at night, as it can increase sensitivity to sunlight.
5. Follow up with a gentle moisturizer to help soothe the skin.

Products to Try

If you’re interested in trying glycolic acid on your armpits, here are a few products to consider:

– Mario Badescu A.H.A. & Grapefruit Body Soap: This body soap contains glycolic acid and grapefruit extract to help exfoliate and brighten skin. It can be used daily on the body, including the underarms.
– PFB Vanish + Chromabright: This roll-on serum contains glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid to exfoliate and brighten skin, as well as Chromabright to help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. It is safe to use on sensitive areas such as the underarms.
– Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Skin Brightening Cream: This cream contains glycolic acid and a blend of natural brightening ingredients to help exfoliate and even out skin tone. It can be used on the body, including the underarms, but should not be used immediately after shaving or waxing.

Conclusion

Glycolic acid can be a useful addition to your underarm skincare routine, but it’s important to approach its use with caution. Start with a low concentration product and test a small area of skin first to minimize the risk of irritation. With regular use, glycolic acid can help to brighten and even out skin tone, reduce bumps and ingrown hairs, and minimize fine lines and wrinkles in the underarm area.