How to Get Rid of a Zit on Your Armpit

Last Updated: August 25, 2021 References

The small pimple-like bumps that develop in your armpit are often the result of ingrown hairs or built up bacteria and oil. In some cases they can actually be cysts or a form of skin cancer. In order to get rid of these pimples, you should practice personal hygiene, use proper shaving techniques, apply topical treatments, and in severe cases seek medical attention.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Practicing Personal Hygiene

1
Wash your armpits frequently. In some instances, underarm pimples will develop as a result of excess oil and bacteria. As a result, you should wash your armpits at least once a day.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 16 August 2021.} If you are a profuse sweater, you may want to wash them multiple times a day in order to prevent the development of underarm pimples.^{[2]
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- You should always wash after exercising to remove oil and bacteria from the surface of your skin.
2
Use a natural deodorant. Some deodorants can also cause skin irritation under the armpits and can contribute to the development of clogged pores. Try using fragrance free and hypoallergenic deodorants to help reduce the chances of developing underarm pimples. You can also choose a deodorant without aluminum.^{[3]
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3
Wear breathable clothing. Tight clothing can also contribute to the development of underarm pimples because they trap in moisture, which can cause bacteria to develop. If you suffer from underarm pimples, wear loose cotton clothes. This will allow your underarms to breathe and will help keep them free of moisture throughout the day.^{[4]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Shaving Your Armpits Properly

1
Apply warm water and salt before shaving. In order to reduce the friction associated with shaving, apply a salt and water solution to your underarm prior to shaving. Mix together ½ a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water. Dip a cotton swab into the water and then dab the mixture on your armpit. Let stand for 10 minutes.^{[5]
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- This will soften the hair, reducing the likelihood of developing razor burn or underarm pimples.
2
Use a thick layer of shaving cream. You should also use a thick layer of shaving cream to reduce irritation while you are shaving. Never shave your underarm when it is dry. This will lead to irritation, redness, and may cause the development of pimple-like bumps under the arm.^{[6]
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3
Shave in the direction of hair growth. To prevent the development of razor burn and underarm pimples, you should always shave in the same direction as the hair growth. This can be tricky with your armpits because they are hard to see and not all of the hairs grow in the same direction. Try shaving in a t-shape:^{[7]
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- Start at the top of the armpit and shave down through the middle. Then shave from one side of the armpit across the middle to the other side.
4
Change your razor blade frequently. It is important that you always use a clean and sharp razor when shaving under your arms. This is because a dull razor will cause you to press harder, thus damaging the skin. It is recommended that you change your razor or razor blade once every two weeks.^{[8]
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- If irritation persists, you should avoid shaving and talk with your doctor.
- If you are prone to underarm pimples, shave your pits with a new disposable razor each time.
5
Try laser hair removal. If you find that you develop underarm pimples as a result of shaving, you can try a few alternative methods for removing this hair. For example, you can remove this hair through laser treatment. Laser hair removal will help to get rid of any skin irritations and ingrown hairs that may result from frequent shaving, but it takes a long time and can be quite expensive.^{[9]
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- The treatment lasts approximately 10 minutes and you need to have more than 10 treatments for permanent hair removal.
- The cost of treatment is around $145 per session.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Using Spot Treatments

1
Apply aloe vera gel. Once you have developed underarm pimples, they can become inflamed and irritated. Apply aloe vera gel to the area to help soothe the skin and treat the acne.^{[10]
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2
Create a baking soda scrub. A baking soda scrub exfoliates the skin and leaves it soft, clean, and smooth. It can also help treat body acne. Combine two tablespoons of baking soda with a bit of water. Continue to add water and stir until a thick paste is formed. Apply to your underarm and let rest for 10 minutes before washing off with warm water.
- Do not apply this scrub more than twice a week.
3
Use honey and turmeric to treat underarm pimples. The combination of natural honey and turmeric works great for treating pimples. The turmeric controls sebum production and the honey works to moisten the skin. Mix together one teaspoon of turmeric and two tablespoons of natural honey.
- Apply directly to the pimples and let rest for 15 minutes. Then wash it off with warm water.
- Repeat this process once every two days for optimal results.
4
Apply a hydrocortisone cream to the area. If you develop underarm pimples, apply a hydrocortisone cream directly to the area. You should continue to apply this cream for a few days until the irritation subsides. This cream can help reduce the itching and redness associated with underarm pimples.^{[11]
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Expert Source

Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist
Expert Interview. 16 August 2021.}

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Seeking Medical Attention

1
Ask your doctor about the pimples. If the bumps under your arm are sore, itch, or bleed, you should talk with your doctor immediately. In some instances, these pimple-like bumps can actually be cysts or in severe cases a type of skin cancer. Ask your doctor about the pimples to see if they are something more serious.^{[12]
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2
Have the cyst drained. If your doctor identifies the red-bump as a cyst, they may elect to drain the cyst. It is important that you do not attempt to pop the cyst on your own. This can actually spread bacteria and may lead to infection. Have your doctor or dermatologist drain the cyst using a scalpel or needle.^{[13]
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- This will not remove the cyst, but can reduce the swelling if the cyst is pus-filled.
- If you get cysts repeatedly, your doctor may prescribe you a low-dose antibiotic.
3
Get the cyst removed. In some cases your doctor or dermatologist may recommend removing the cyst. This is typically done if the cyst is large and is accompanied by painful symptoms.^{[14]
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- Cysts can be removed surgically or through laser treatment, depending on the specific case.

Expert Q&A

Question

Will a hot compress draw out a pimple?

Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Asmi Sanghvi is a Board Certified Dermatologist based in New York, New York. She specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology and has a passion for educating others. Dr. Sanghvi has been published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and Cutis. She holds a BS in Human Communication Sciences from Northwestern University and a DO from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Asmi Sanghvi, DO

Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Yes, it will! A warm compress can also relieve the pain caused by the pimple.
Question

Can you use antibacterial soap on your armpits?

Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Asmi Sanghvi is a Board Certified Dermatologist based in New York, New York. She specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology and has a passion for educating others. Dr. Sanghvi has been published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and Cutis. She holds a BS in Human Communication Sciences from Northwestern University and a DO from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Asmi Sanghvi, DO

Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Of course, but first talk to your dermatologist. He will most likely develop a skin care plan for you with an antibacterial soap and a gentle antiperspirant.
Question

What to do if a pimple is inflamed?

Asmi Sanghvi, DO
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Asmi Sanghvi is a Board Certified Dermatologist based in New York, New York. She specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology and has a passion for educating others. Dr. Sanghvi has been published in several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and Cutis. She holds a BS in Human Communication Sciences from Northwestern University and a DO from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Asmi Sanghvi, DO

Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Ask your doctor for antibiotic creams or pills to calm down the inflammation. A dermatologist can also drain the pimple in the office, if necessary.

Warnings

Do not pop underarm pimples because this can spread bacteria and cause the development of more pimples. Instead, see a doctor or dermatologist.^{[15]
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