Irritated underarms: how to soothe eczema under the arms?

The underarms are a delicate area of the body and easily irritated. Indeed, they are subject to numerous repeated frictions, caused by arm movements and clothing contact. The underarms also house many sweat glands which are responsible for sweat production. To avoid bad odours, it is common to use deodorants or antiperspirants, but these formulas can sometimes be harsh. Moreover, underarms are often shaved or waxed, which can cause micro-lesions in the skin and increase the risk of irritation.

These various factors make the underarm area a favourable environment for inflammations and eczema. This skin condition is characterised by itching, redness, oozing, and sometimes blisters. The skin is very dry at the site of the eczema lesions (xerosis). Heat or perspiration can exacerbate these symptoms. In the underarm area, two types of eczema can be distinguished.

• Atopic Eczema: this form of eczema is characterised by an abnormal permeability of the skin barrier and the inadequacy of the immune response to common environmental allergens. Several studies have highlighted abnormalities in the genes coding for filaggrin and other proteins of the stratum corneum. Furthermore, it is observed that about 50 to 70% of children with atopic eczema have a first-degree relative who has also been affected, demonstrating the hereditary nature of this disease.

• Contact Eczema : Contact allergy can be the cause of eczema in the armpit area. This skin issue is associated with a reaction to a specific allergen. Therefore, it is neither hereditary nor related to an atopic predisposition. Contact eczema in the armpits is often due to the use of deodorants or anti-perspirants. A hair removal cream can also cause this skin rash.