How can I treat my yellow armpit hair at the age of 25?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 25 years old, overweight, and not diabetic, and my blood sugar has been checked. I tend to sweat a lot in my armpits and hands.

I have a yellow coating over the hair of my right armpit, along with a slight increase in armpit odor. I shaved the area, and while the hair grew back, I did not notice any yellow coating. However, a few days ago, I saw it occurring again in the same armpit, although only on a few hairs.

I suspect it may be Trichomycosis axillaris, as the images I found online match my symptoms exactly.

Please advise on the next steps or the specific routine I should follow, and also suggest precautions I can take to prevent it from recurring.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Based on your description, this is indeed a bacterial infection, specifically Trichomycosis axillaris. It causes tiny, yellow, red, or black sticky deposits on the hair and occurs more commonly in individuals who sweat excessively. Most often, it affects only one armpit, but it can also involve both sides later. It may look worrying, but it is actually harmless and easy to treat.

I will guide you on how you can manage it.

The most effective step, which you have already done, is shaving. Keeping the underarm shaved or trimmed short for a few weeks helps because the bacteria attach only to the hair.
Along with shaving, wash the armpits twice daily using an antibacterial wash, such as five percent Benzoyl peroxide or Chlorhexidine.
Applying Clindamycin one percent cream twice daily on the affected armpit for seven to 10 days helps speed up recovery.

Lifestyle changes are also significant, especially in terms of sweat control, as excessive sweating can trigger this condition. Use a strong antiperspirant, not a deodorant, at night to help prevent sweating. Wear loose cotton clothing and keep the area dry during the day by using talc or dusting powder.

Continue using an antibacterial wash a few times a week, even after the problem clears, to help prevent recurrence. The yellow coating usually disappears within a few days, and the odor settles down quickly.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

How can I treat my yellow armpit hair at the age of 25?

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