How to Cure Armpit Rash

Armpit rash can cause pain, itching, and unsightly patches of skin. While often the conditions causing underarm rash are not serious, the discomfort can be difficult to manage. Often you can avoid underarm problems by following a few simple rules of hygiene and using common sense. Don't share towels or personal care products such as deodorant; keep towels from contacting surfaces like benches and gym floors; and wash towels and clothing often.

Address Conditions

Keep the underarm area dry. After showering, blot with a towel. Allow the area to air dry or use a blow dryer on a mild heat setting to be sure all skin and hair are thoroughly dried.

Keep the skin from rubbing against other areas of skin by putting on a bandage or wearing tops with sleeves.

You can fight the buildup of underarm heat by wearing short sleeves that prevent skin-to-skin contact and also allow air flow and vent heat from the area.

Stop wetness as quickly as possible. If you tend to sweat frequently due to exercise or nervousness or during everyday actvities, consider carrying a change of clothing and switching to a dry shirt as soon as possible.

Eliminate Causes

Change to a hypoallergenic laundry soap and body soap. Temporarily discontinue using any cologne or perfume you normally apply to the affected area.

Change your deodorant or stop using it for a few days and see if there is any improvement. Pat on cornstarch or a similar drying agent instead.

To avoid further irritation of the skin, stop shaving, waxing or using other forms of hair removal until the area heals.

Try wearing shirts made of technical fabrics. These special blends help wick away moisture, eliminate friction and control body heat--three of the most common causes of underarm problems.

Use a zinc oxide or diaper rash ointment to help cover the affected skin with a protective barrier and dry it out.

Lose weight. Extra folds of skin often trap moisture and create the right conditions for microorganisms to grow and irritate skin.

Warnings

Because of the number of possible causes of underarm rash, it is best to see a doctor if simple methods do not provide relief. Thickened skin, scaling, large swellings and persistent symptoms are only a few of the issues best evaluated by a medical professional.