What Causes Underarm Rash?

Underarm rashes can be irritating, annoying and downright painful. However, the causes for these rashes are as varied as the ways in which they manifest. Some of the causes are rather benign, while others can be symptomatic of serious problems. Listed here are some of the common causes of underarm rash. As with any such advice, try some simple remedies for the most benign causes, and if those don't work, see a physician to rule out more serious causes.

Allergies

Allergic reactions cause the vast majority of underarm rashes. These allergies can flare up in the presence of certain deodorants, perfumes or even soaps. Clothing and washing machine detergents can also be the source of an allergic reaction. Try a process of elimination, starting with your deodorant (especially if it is a new brand) to see what might be causing such a reaction.

Folliculitis

An infection of the hair follicles could be another common cause of armpit rash. Friction and shaving are the most typical reasons these irritations and infections occur. Those with sensitive skin may be more apt to get them than others. In order to make it go away, one should avoid shaving until the bumps disappear, and then switch to a sensitive skin shaving cream and possibly a higher quality razor.

Neurofibromatosis

While not a common cause of underarm rash by any means, sometimes a rash in that area can be a symptom of neurofibromatosis syndrome. This rare disorder, which is passed down genetically, can cause rashes, fluctuations in skin pigmentation and the creation of non-cancerous tumors in the skin and nerves.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that is usually identified by scaling of the skin and breakouts of severe inflammation. While it often results in underarm rashes, it is rare for that to be the only place in which it manifests itself. The scaling occurs because the cells on the outside of the skin reproduce more quickly than they can be shed.

Fungus

Fungal infections are a very common cause of underarm rash. Fungal infections take root in moist, dark places on the body, and the underarm is one of those prime areas. When a physician has determined which form of fungus has caused the rash, she can prescribe a treatment appropriate for the type.