Dark underarms can make anyone feel self-conscious, especially during the warmer months or when wearing sleeveless outfits. While there are countless creams and treatments on the market, many people are turning to a much simpler and more natural option: lemon and baking soda.
This gentle combination is gaining popularity for its exfoliating and brightening properties. It’s affordable, easy to make at home, and with consistent use, many say it makes a noticeable difference.
What Causes Dark Underarms?
Before exploring the remedy, it’s helpful to understand the common reasons behind underarm darkening:
- Friction from shaving or wearing tight clothing
- Buildup of dead skin cells
- Irritation caused by deodorants containing alcohol or strong fragrances
- Hormonal changes or genetic factors
- Skin conditions like hyperpigmentation
While not usually harmful, dark underarms can affect self-confidence. Fortunately, natural remedies like lemon and baking soda may offer a gentle solution.
Why Use Lemon and Baking Soda?
Lemon is rich in vitamin C and citric acid, which have long been used in skincare for brightening and exfoliating. Its acidic nature helps slough off dead skin cells and leaves the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Baking soda, on the other hand, is mildly abrasive. It helps remove buildup and debris from the skin’s surface and is also known for neutralizing body odor.
When used together, lemon and baking soda form a gentle scrub that can help refresh and smooth the underarm area.
How to Make the Lemon and Baking Soda Scrub
You’ll need just two ingredients and a few minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- Juice from half a fresh lemon
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the baking soda and lemon juice until a paste forms.
- Apply the paste to clean, dry underarms using your fingertips.
- Leave it on for 5–10 minutes, but no longer.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Follow with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Use this remedy 2–3 times a week. Using it too often may irritate the skin, especially if your skin is sensitive.
What to Expect
With regular use, some people report smoother, brighter underarms within a couple of weeks. But remember—natural remedies take time, and results vary from person to person.
A few important tips:
- Lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid sun exposure after application or use sunscreen.
- If you experience redness, burning, or irritation, stop using the mixture. You might consider milder options like aloe vera or plain yogurt.
- Always perform a patch test before applying new ingredients to delicate areas.
Additional Tips for Brighter Underarms
Here are some gentle, supportive habits you can adopt alongside this remedy:
- Switch to a natural or fragrance-free deodorant
- Reduce shaving frequency or try waxing to lessen friction
- Exfoliate underarms 1–2 times per week using a soft scrub or washcloth
- Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce sweating and irritation
- Keep the area moisturized with a lightweight, non-irritating lotion
Final Thoughts
Many have tried this simple remedy and felt more confident in their skin as a result. If you’re seeking an easy, natural, and affordable way to care for your underarms, lemon and baking soda might be worth trying.
As with any skincare routine, gentleness and consistency are key. Your skin deserves patience and care—and sometimes the simplest solutions can make the most meaningful difference.
Have you tried this method? We’d love to hear how it worked for you!
Share this article with a friend who loves natural beauty tips!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dermatologist before starting new skincare treatments.