How to Prevent Skin Irritation Under the Arms

Heat, sweat and, sometimes, chemicals from antiperspirants or deodorants may cause irritation to skin under the arms. The skin rubbing together in that area can result in chafing. Those who shave under the arms may be prone to irritation, as shaving can be rough on this sensitive skin.

Things You'll Need

• Hypoallergenic soap
• Hypoallergenic antiperspirant
• Talcum powder
• Breathable shirt fabric
• Hypoallergenic laundry detergent

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a hypoallergenic soap when shaving under the arms, in case you are allergic to perfumes or dyes common to scented soaps. Wait an hour or more before applying antiperspirant or deodorant after shaving under the arms. Shaving leaves skin temporarily susceptible to irritation from applied products.

• 2

  Switch to a hypoallergenic antiperspirant. Some chemicals used in antiperspirants and deodorants may cause irritation to skin, if you are allergic to them. Because moisture from sweating can cause chafing, choose a deodorant that contains antiperspirant so the area stays drier.

• 3

  Apply talcum powder after the antiperspirant has dried. Talc will aid in absorbing moisture and reducing friction.

• 4

  Wash clothing and towels in hypoallergenic laundry detergent. Even after clothes and towels are washed, rinsed and dried, dyes and perfumes from detergents may linger. When you use the towel or wear clothing laundered in harsh detergents, sensitive areas of your skin, such as under the arms, may become irritated.

• 5

  Wear shirts that are loose fitting and made of breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, or of fabrics that wick sweat away from the body. The less heat and moisture that is trapped under the arms, the less chance you'll experience skin irritation.