Is armpit hair unhygienic? Dermatologists weigh in

At the "Trillion Peso March," a rallyist gained social media attention for her underarms. Netizens focused on the so-called discoloration they perceived, while others mentioned armpit hair. 

Armpits should be the least of our concerns, at a protest rally where more pressing issues need to be addressed.

But to put things in perspective, GMA News Online spoke to two board-certified dermatologists to discuss the role of armpit hair and the causes of skin discoloration.

Is armpit hair unhygienic?

According to Dr. Bea Chan, medical director of The Skin B Clinic, the presence of armpit hair is "totally normal" and actually reduces the risk of irritation from underarm products like deodorants.

Armpit hair also serves as a "dry lubricant," minimizing skin-on-skin contact and irritation, according to Dr. Kaycee Reyes, founder and CEO of Luminisce.

"This means you're less likely to get rashes or abrasions from everyday activities or exercise," Reyes said.

"Hair also helps disperse sweat, which can aid in cooling and reduce direct skin dampness in the area," she added.

But armpit hair "can trap sweat and bacteria," which may contribute to "body odor if the area isn't kept clean," Reyes continued. But keeping "the hair itself isn't unhygienic."

If you maintain good hygiene — regular washing, using deodorant — Reyes explained, "having armpit hair does not significantly increase odor."

"The key is bathing regularly and drying your underarms to prevent bacterial buildup," she said.

What causes skin discoloration on the armpit?

When it comes to underarm skin discoloration, Chan said post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a significant factor.

"Friction due to repetitive shaving, waxing, or use of harsh, irritating whitening products leads to PIH," she said, adding this phenomenon is "more common with darker skin races."

In addition to PIH, Reyes said other causes of skin discoloration include shaving and plucking armpit hair, using deodorants or other underarm products, genetics, skin tone, and other skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.

"Frequent hair removal is a major contributor [to skin discoloration]," Reyes said.

As a result of shaving and waxing, Reyes explained, "the skin responds by increasing pigment cells."

"Regularly shaving your underarms can stimulate excess melanin production, making the skin appear darker over time," she added.

When it comes to deodorants and other underarm products, meanwhile, ingredients like fragrance and alcohol, among others, can lead to skin irritation, Reyes said. 

"Fragrances, dyes, and preservatives in deodorant, shaving creams, and other products are known to cause underarm darkening in susceptible people," she said.

"Essentially, if you're sensitive to an ingredient, your skin might darken as a response," she added.

How to avoid skin discoloration?

If you're looking for alternatives to hair removal to prevent PIH, Chan recommended diode laser treatments.

"I recommend diode laser hair removal as a semi-permanent way to get rid of armpit hair and to reduce the hassle brought about by shaving or waxing," she said.

"The number of sessions of laser treatment would depend on the hair density, the thickness of the hair strand, and the interval between sessions," she added, saying that an average individual would need eight to 12 sessions to fully get rid of armpit hair.

Reyes advised the same treatment, saying that "dermatologists find that after laser treatments, the underarm skin often looks lighter and smoother."

"It's an investment, but worth it for those who struggle with chronic ingrown or pigmentation from shaving," she said.

However, if laser hair removal isn't within your budget, Reyes suggested reducing the frequency of shaving or waxing to lessen the risk of skin irritation.

"You might find shaving two to three times a week instead of daily still keeps you presentable, but gives your skin more recovery time," she said.

"With waxing, stick to the recommended interval, usually a month, to avoid overdoing it," she added.

If underarm skin discoloration becomes a concern, it's best to see a doctor for a proper consultation.

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