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How to get rid of itchy armpits caused by atopic dermatitis?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have atopic dermatitis on my armpits and arms, which makes them dark, itchy, and unsightly. I cannot even wear clothes comfortably because of this. I have tried to moisturize regularly with a cream containing petroleum jelly, but it does not seem to be working. It even gets itchier after some time. I have had this condition since I was about 5 or 6, so practically my whole life. It is very itchy and red, and it gets really dark, which pigments my skin and makes it look really ugly. I use a few moisturizing creams, but it does not make much of a difference. What other products should I use, or what should I do differently? I have had this my whole life, and sometimes it gets a bit better, but when it comes back, usually due to a change in weather, it is always bad. I have used dusting powder and steroids to treat this condition in the past. I underwent a few lab tests, and the results indicated that I have atopic dermatitis. I am currently using Protopic (not regularly) and Acretin 0.025. Additionally, I recently started rinsing my armpits with lemon juice, but I am not sure if it is making the condition worse. Please help.

Answered by Dr. Chibitam Hope Obia

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chibitam Hope Obia is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician with expertise in managing a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. He has a strong interest in mental health and has pursued advanced training in the field. Dr. Obia is known for his patient-centered approach, clinical efficiency, and commitment to holistic care for individuals and families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

We welcome you to icliniq family.

I appreciate the confidence you place in me for your healthcare consultation.

I understand your concern.

I am very sorry to hear about your medical condition. Please do not worry; I am here to take care of you. Based on your symptoms, you have been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. Here are the recommended treatments:

  1. Capsule Co-Amoxiclav 625 mg, take orally twice daily.
  2. Tablet Ketoconazole 200 mg, take orally once daily.
  3. Tablet Acyclovir 800 mg, take orally once daily.
  4. Apply topical 2 percent Resorcinol once daily, or 20 percent Azelaic acid once daily, or 5 percent Dapsone gel once daily for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
  5. Injection Infliximab 5mg/kg: Administer at 0, 2, and 6 weeks.
  6. Topical treatment options: Ointment 0.2 percent Tacrolimus once daily, or ointment 0.05 percent Clobetasol once daily, or 0.2 percent Hydrocortisone twice daily.
  7. Tablet Hydroxyzine 25 mg, take orally every 8 hours.

Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take the medicines with their consent. If your symptoms persist, please schedule another appointment for a follow-up via chat, phone, or video consultation.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at icliniq.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At December 27, 2023
Reviewed At October 24, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chibitam Hope Obia is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician with expertise in managing a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. He has a strong interest in mental health and has pursued advanced training in the field. Dr. Obia is known for his patient-centered approach, clinical efficiency, and commitment to holistic care for individuals and families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chibitam Hope Obia is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician with expertise in managing a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. He has a strong interest in mental health and has pursued advanced training in the field. Dr. Obia is known for his patient-centered approach, clinical efficiency, and commitment to holistic care for individuals and families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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