What Causes an Armpit Rash?

Noticing some itchiness, pain, skin color changes, or increased odor in your armpits lately? Then you might just have an armpit rash. A rash in an underarm is bewildering. Most of us don't pay much attention to our armpits unless we're shaving or applying deodorant. Upon coming down with an itchy armpit rash, a friend of mine said, "It's just so weird - I feel like I know my a**hole better than I know my armpit!" So what causes an underarm rash?

Allergic Reaction: Red, Irritate, & Itchy Armpit Rash

The most common cause of an itchy armpit rash is an allergic reaction to something you've used on your underarm skin, such as deodorant, soap, or perfume. Clothing and the detergents used to wash them can also cause an allergy-related underarm rash. Your doctor will probably recommend that you stop using personal care products that you apply directly to your skin and may also suggest a cream to help with the itch and inflammation.

Folliculitis: Bumpy, Painful, & Red Armpit Rash

Folliculitis is an infection of your hair follicles, which can occur in your underarms and cause an armpit rash. Everyday friction in your underarm or shaving can damage your underarm hair follicles and make them susceptible to infection. Some people experience an armpit rash that looks like pimples when they have folliculitis. You should avoid shaving until the underarm rash has cleared up and your doctor may prescribe a cream or ointment to get rid of the infection.

Fungal Infection: Patchy, Flaky, & Red Armpit Rash

Just like your feet and groin area, your armpit is place that has ideal conditions for a fungal infection. It's often moist and has little exposure to light, which can allow yeast and other fungi to overproduce and cause a red and itchy armpit rash. Your doctor can help determine what kind of fungus is causing the armpit rash and will prescribe an appropriate anti-fungal to treat it.

Other Causes of an Armpit Rash

There are some serious conditions and diseases that can cause an armpit rash, such as diabetes, HIV, scabies, or syphilis. Don't play armchair physician and try to diagnose it on your own - go see your doctor to find out the exact cause of your armpit rash and the best treatment to make it go away. In the meantime, keep your underarm clean and dry and avoid using deodorants or other hygiene items on your armpit until you see your doctor.

Sources:

National Institutes of Health, Folliculitis

National Institutes of Health, Fungal Infections

Familydoctor.org, Skin Rashes and Other Changes