Armpits

**turbulenceadams** · 17th January 2010, 08:14 AM

I know this minor but my armpits are driving me nuts.
They started getting really itchy out of the blue last week when I was at my mum's.
It feels like they're on fire and the itching keeps waking me up.
I didn't know where to put this post really.
I haven't changed anything. I've been using the same antiperspirant for years. I've stopped using it because of the itching.
There are no marks on the skin, just some redness from scratching.
If anyone has any advice to stop it I'd be most appreciative.

**Beekeeper** · 17th January 2010, 08:53 AM

Turbulance, the thing about sensitivities to chemicals is that they can develop over time through exposure, so leaving the deodorant out for now is a good idea. It sounds to me, however, like a fungal or yeast infection might have developed. Ringworm develops in moist, dark, warm conditions, especially if you already have a rash there from other causes. Go see a doctor, pharmacist or naturopath.

Eliminate other possibilities:
- Could it have started with chaffing? Perhaps a tight shirt or rash shirt?
- Did you shave your armpits? Hair re-growth can be itchy and if the area was poorly lubricated when you shaved this could cause a rash.
- Do you wear a lot of synthetics? Natural fibres breathe better.
- Perhaps it's the laundry detergent (but you'd probably react elsewhere on your skin).
- Could be your soap?

**turbulenceadams** · 17th January 2010, 10:59 PM

Thanks Beekeeper.

I'm gonna go see my local chemist tomorrow and see about an anti-fungal cream just to see if it helps.
It's calmed down quite a bit now which leads me to think it could be from my antiperspirant.
I ordered one of those natural crystal deodorants so I shall give it a go.

That itching is fierce though!

Thanks again Beekeeper, you're great!

**Beekeeper** · 18th January 2010, 12:57 AM

You're welcome, dear.

**Fogged** · 25th January 2010, 05:23 AM

Well, I am glad that your problem is solved. I have an itchy scalp due to dandruff. It requires regular treatment and if I don't do the treatment even for one day, I find myself scratching. An itchy armpit can be annoying... and embarrassing too especially if you are in public all day.

**turbulenceadams** · 27th January 2010, 03:13 AM

Polytar shampoo is the business for itchy flaky scalps. Massage it into the scalp and try to leave it on for 1 or 2 minutes before washing off.
A few washes with it and your dandruff should clear up. Works for me.
Also try not to scratch as this will make your scalp sensitive and cause lumps to form.
I tried everything for my scalp years ago and discovered that Polytar actually works plus it makes your hair really shiny.
I haven't had to use it at all for a long time but I always keep a bottle handy if it ever flares up and one wash is usually all it takes to keep it under control. Head and Shoulders shampoo is rubbish and just makes it worse when you stop using it.

In regards to my itching armpits they are now no longer itching hurrah! Plus I can use antiperspirant again!

**Mishell** · 27th January 2010, 11:23 AM

Originally Posted by turbulenceadams

Plus I can use antiperspirant again!

Hurrah!!

**Beekeeper** · 28th January 2010, 07:29 AM

That's good news Turbulenceadams.

Maybe both you and Fogged you should add some healthy oils to your diet to promote healthy, non-flaky skin.

Fogged, when you wash your hair normally, really spend a lot of time massaging your scalp with your fingers and then rinse it really well. This helps prevent shampoo build-up and brings the blood to your scalp to promote healthy skin. Plus, it feels really good.