Underarm Lightening Creams: What the FDA Says About Hydroquinone
Odor & SweatArticleDark underarms send many women shopping for brightening creams. The FDA says no over-the-counter skin lightener is legally sold, and darkening can be a clue worth checking.
In this article
Darker skin in the armpits is common, and brightening creams, serums and “underarm masks” promise to even it out. Before you buy one, it helps to know what the FDA1 has said about the best-known lightening ingredient, and why a new or thickening patch is worth showing a clinician.
What the FDA says about hydroquinone
The FDA1 says there are no FDA-approved or otherwise legally marketed over-the-counter skin lightening products. Under the CARES Act, products without FDA approval had to come off the market as of September 23, 2020.1
In April 2022, the FDA1 sent warning letters to 12 companies still selling such products, and reported serious side effects with hydroquinone lightening products, including rashes, facial swelling and ochronosis, a skin discoloration that can be permanent.1 The FDA advises people to avoid these products and to ask a health care professional about other options.1
If an online seller offers a hydroquinone cream without a prescription, that’s a reason to pass.
Why underarms darken
Cleveland Clinic2 lists many causes, including genetics, irritation from shaving, friction from tight clothing, reactions to fragrances, dyes and preservatives, rashes, heavy sweating, PCOS and diabetes.2
The one not to miss is acanthosis nigricans, darker, thicker, velvety skin that can be a warning sign of prediabetes or diabetes.23 The AAD advises seeing a dermatologist if you notice a change in your skin.3
What to try first
- Cut back on irritants. Cleveland Clinic2 suggests using fewer products and choosing fragrance-free, dye-free and preservative-free ones.2
- Reduce rubbing. Looser tops and gentler hair removal can help if shaving or friction is the cause.2
- Ask about prescription options. A dermatologist can prescribe creams or suggest in-office treatments if darkening persists.2
When to see a doctor
Cleveland Clinic2 advises seeing a doctor for ongoing inflammation, itching or rash after changing products, or darkening along with irregular periods, unusual hair growth or weight gain.2 Thick, velvety darkening also warrants a visit and possibly a blood sugar check.23
Try: “The skin in my armpits has gotten darker and feels thicker. Could this be related to blood sugar, and should I be tested?”
Arms Up includes a Fresh Log and a zone-by-zone match. Use them to note the products you use under your arms and any skin changes before your visit. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. This article discusses product categories and government guidance. It does not evaluate any particular brand or product. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2022FDA works to protect consumers from potentially harmful OTC skin lightening products (opens in a new tab)abcdef
- Cleveland Clinic, 2022How To Get Rid of Dark Armpits (opens in a new tab)abcdefghij
- American Academy of DermatologyAcanthosis nigricans: Overview (opens in a new tab)abc
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