How To Get Rid Of Underarm Bumps

How to Get Rid of Underarm Bumps

Jessica Isaac/Demand Media

Underarm bumps are a common occurrence and usually are caused by shaving the sensitive skin in the underarm. While they can be itchy and frustrating, getting rid of them can be as simple as following a few easy-to-do steps and learning how to prevent them.

Treating the Bumps

Jessica Isaac/Demand Media

Wash and dry the affected area with a gentle cleanser. To help soothe redness and itching, wash with cold water.

Jessica Isaac/Demand Media

Apply a hydrocortisone cream to the area. Hydrocortisone is useful for numerous skin problems and will help soothe redness, itchiness and general irritation. Try a gentle cream such as Aveeno Hydro Anti-Itch, which you can find at most drugstores.

Jessica Isaac/Demand Media

Apply a natural antiseptic such as tea tree oil or grapefruit seed extract. This will ensure that your underarm bumps don't become more irritated or get infected and will also help with the healing process. You can find these at most health food stores.

Jessica Isaac/Demand Media

Apply a skin-soothing cream containing aloe vera or vitamin E to help skin recover and heal. You can try pure aloe vera gels commonly used for sunburns, or hypo-allergenic moisturizers that contain vitamin E. Most of these creams or gels can be found at your local drugstore. Some drugstores might sell creams specifically tailored for underarm bumps. Talk with your pharmacist to see what may be available.

Jessica Isaac/Demand Media

Learn how to prevent underarm bumps from happening. Try methods such as exfoliating skin prior to shaving, never dry shaving, never using a dull blade, using an electric razor, or switching to wax or depilatory creams.

Warning

This process is meant to be done two or three times a day for a few days. If bumps haven't gone away after seven days of treatment, see your doctor.

If you have recurring bumps and have taken steps to prevent them, see your dermatologist, who can help diagnose if there is an underlying skin problem.

If your underarm bumps become extremely swollen, painful, form cysts or don't go away, see to your doctor to learn whether there is a more serious problem.

References

Writer Bio

Amy Davidson is a graduate from the University of Florida in Gainesville, with a bachelor's degree in journalism. She also writes for local papers around Gainesville doing articles on local events and news.