It’s common for armpits to appear darker after waxing. This darkening is temporary and caused by the trauma of waxing which leads to increased melanin production. The darkness usually fades within a few days to weeks. While annoying, it’s nothing to worry about. Here’s a closer look at why it happens and what you can do.
What Causes Armpits to Darken After Waxing?
There are a few reasons why armpits may temporarily darken after waxing:
Inflammation and Irritation
Waxing is a form of trauma to the skin. It can cause inflammation and irritation as the hair is ripped out from the follicles. This inflammation triggers the body’s wound healing response. As part of this process, cells called melanocytes kick into action to produce more melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. More melanin leads to darker skin.
Exfoliation
The waxing process exfoliates the top layers of skin. This exposes the deeper layers of skin which contain more melanin, causing a darker appearance.
Ingrown Hairs
Waxing can also cause ingrown hairs as part of the regrowth process. Ingrown hairs appear as dark dots or bumps, contributing to an overall darker look of the armpits.
Hair Regrowth
When new hairs start growing back after waxing, they appear darker due to the tapered end of the hair. As more new hairs grow in, it accentuates the darkness of the armpits.
How Long Does Armpit Darkness Last After Waxing?
For most people, the darkened armpits after waxing are temporary. Here’s a general timeline:
- Days 1-3: Armpits are darkest due to inflammation and trauma from waxing
- Days 4-7: Darkness starts to fade as irritation subsides
- Days 8-14: Color continues to lighten as skin heals
- Days 15-30: Armpits return to normal shade as melanin production stabilizes
However, the exact duration varies between individuals depending on skin type and hair regrowth rate. Those with sensitive skin may take longer to lighten up. People who wax frequently can experience more persistent discoloration.
Tips to Prevent and Treat Darkened Armpits
Here are some tips to help avoid and resolve darkened armpits after waxing:
Exfoliate Gently
Gently exfoliating with a warm washcloth or soft brush can help remove dead skin cells and speed up the fading. But avoid harsh scrubs which can irritate the skin.
Moisturize
Keep the area hydrated with a fragrance-free moisturizer. Dryness can worsen irritation and darkening.
Avoid Irritants
Don’t use products containing alcohol, fragrances or harsh chemicals on freshly waxed skin as these can cause inflammation.
Apply Cold Compress
A cold compress helps soothe inflammation and minimize trauma from waxing. Apply for 15 minutes a few times a day.
Use Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C has skin-brightening properties that can help lighten the armpits. Use a serum containing at least 10% vitamin C.
See a Dermatologist
Consult a dermatologist if the darkness doesn’t fade after a month. They can prescribe creams to inhibit melanin production.
When to See a Doctor
See your doctor if you experience the following after waxing as they may indicate an infection or allergic reaction:
– Extreme redness and swelling
– Pus or oozing from follicles
– Itching, burning or pain that worsens over time
– Rash or blisters
– Warmth emanating from the skin
– Lymph nodes in armpit feel enlarged and tender
How to Prevent Darkened Armpits When Waxing
To help minimize armpit darkening after waxing:
- Allow adequate time between waxing sessions for skin to recover
- Use freshly made wax at proper temperature to avoid burns
- Take over-the-counter pain medication before waxing to reduce inflammation
- Apply post-wax balm to soothe and moisturize
- Avoid sun exposure which can darken irritated skin
Professional Waxing vs. At-Home Waxing
Getting waxed at a salon by a professional aesthetician generally causes less irritation and darkness compared to DIY waxes. Here’s a comparison:
| Professional Waxing | At-Home Waxing |
|---|---|
| Uses high quality waxes ideal for sensitive skin | Drugstore waxes may contain harsher ingredients |
| Precise technique minimizes skin trauma | Incorrect technique can remove skin and cause burns |
| Provides post-wax cooling gels and creams | Aftercare is not included with at-home kits |
| Can accommodate sensitivities and allergies | No personalized care for sensitivities |
Other Options to Remove Underarm Hair Besides Waxing
If waxing frequently leads to darkened armpits, consider switching to these other hair removal methods:
Shaving
Shaving only cuts hair above skin level so there is less irritation of hair follicles. But regrowth starts quickly within 1-2 days.
Depilatory Creams
Depilatories dissolve hair near the surface without pulling from the root. Results last 1-3 days before regrowth.
Epilators
Epilators use rotating discs to tweeze out hairs. It lasts as long as waxing but can also cause irritation for some.
Laser Hair Removal
Lasers damage the root to provide permanent hair reduction after several treatments. It involves minimal skin disruption.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis destroys individual hair follicles using a fine needle inserted into the skin. It provides longer-lasting results with repeated sessions.
Should I Be Concerned About Dark Inner Thighs and Bikini Area After Waxing?
Darker inner thighs and bikini area can also occur after waxing for the same reasons as underarm darkening. The coarse hair and sensitive skin of the bikini and thighs is prone to inflammation when waxed. As long as it starts lightening up within 1-4 weeks, it’s usually not a cause for concern. Use the same tips mentioned above to prevent and resolve the discoloration. However, see a doctor if you develop any unusual rashes, bumps or spots along with the darkening.
When to See an Aesthetician
Consult a professional aesthetician or dermatologist if you experience:
– Persistent darkness for longer than one month after waxing
– Darkened skin after every waxing session
– Dark patches spreading beyond just the waxed area
– Changes in existing moles or spots after waxing
– Itching, burning, pain or redness that doesn’t improve
They can provide customized treatment to reduce irritation, regulate melanin production and address any skin damage caused by waxing. With professional help, your underarms, bikini area and inner thighs will regain their regular color.
Conclusion
Darker armpits, inner thighs and bikini area are common but temporary side effects after waxing. It’s the result of trauma causing increased melanin production as part of the healing response. Keep the area well-moisturized and avoid irritants while waiting for the darkness to fade. See a doctor if swelling, pain or rashes develop. To prevent discoloration from future waxing, allow adequate healing time between sessions and use products designed for sensitive skin. With proper aftercare, the darkness should resolve within a month. Don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist or aesthetician if it persists longer.