Unexplained Mark Under Arm
Greetings! I'm a 26-year-old woman and I've recently noticed a dark yellowish-brown mark resembling a bruise on my left armpit. I'm uncertain if it warrants concern. It doesn’t cause pain and I don’t have any memory of injuring that area, which leads me to believe it’s not an actual bruise, even though it does seem relatively large. I apply deodorant daily—my apologies for any spelling mistakes, as English isn't my first language—since otherwise, I struggle with odor by the end of the day. Although I don’t perspire significantly, the little sweat I produce has a strong odor. I wonder if this mark could be a side effect of daily deodorant use or if it might indicate a health issue I’m not aware of. For context, I am 1.60m tall and weigh approximately 60kg. I am not currently on any medications or birth control, and I occasionally take vitamins, though I haven’t used any in the past month. I completed some blood tests about 2-3 months ago, and the results were normal, if that information helps. I would greatly appreciate any medical insights you might have regarding this situation. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 10:20:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a new mark on your skin, especially when it doesn't seem to correspond to an injury. A dark yellowish-brown mark in the armpit can have several explanations, ranging from benign skin changes to other factors related to hygiene products or skin conditions. Since it’s not painful and you have no recollection of an injury, let's explore some possibilities and what you can do next.
Possible Causes:
- Skin Changes: Sometimes, skin can develop discoloration due to friction, especially in areas like the armpits where skin can rub against skin or clothing.
- Deodorant Reaction: Ingredients in some deodorants can occasionally cause discoloration or irritation in sensitive skin.
- Hyperpigmentation: This is a common skin condition where certain areas of skin become darker, often due to hormonal changes, sun exposure, or even the skin healing from a minor issue you may not have noticed.
- Infections or Other Skin Conditions: While less likely given your description, certain skin infections, fungal infections, or other dermatological issues can cause changes in skin color.
Next Steps:
- Observe: Monitor the mark over the next few weeks for any changes such as expansion, changes in color, or new symptoms (like pain, itching, or swelling).
- Review Deodorant Use: Consider stopping the deodorant for a few days to see if there's an improvement or if any irritation subsides. If you choose to do this, ensure to maintain hygiene to manage body odor.
- Maintain Skin Care: Keep the area clean and moisturized to avoid irritation. Use gentle, unscented products if you experience any skin reaction.
- Document Changes: Keep a photo or log for reference regarding any changes to the mark over time.
- Seek Professional Advice: If it doesn’t improve, changes in appearance or if you develop new symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for an evaluation. They can examine the mark and ascertain whether any testing or treatment is necessary.
Remember, while it’s good to be vigilant about changes in your body, many skin marks are harmless. Stay observant and focus on self-care for now, but don't hesitate to reach out for help if your concern grows. Take care!
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