Pimples on Underarms: Causes, Pain Relief Treatment, and Prevention Tips

July 9, 2025

Dr. Shraddha Pitalia

3 min read

6703

A women showing her smooth underarms free from pimples

Do you often experience painful, red bumps under your arms, especially after a long day out in Bangalore’s humid weather or post-gym workout? These aren’t just regular skin issues. Pimples on underarms are a real concern, often worsened by sweat, tight clothing, or shaving, common in our tropical city life. Whether it’s irritation from shaving, deodorants, sweating or clogged hair follicles, armpit pimple pain can be frustrating and even limit your movement. Pimples are not just limited to the face or back; they can pop up in your underarms, too. 

If you are with armpit pimple pain and want to get rid of these pimples with advanced underarm pimple treatment solutions, continue reading. At Evenly Skin & Hair Clinic, Bangalore, we understand how sensitive the underarm area is and offer targeted underarm pimple treatment to address not just the symptoms but the root cause.

Recognizing the symptoms of underarm pimples

Due to Bangalore’s warm, often muggy environment, your underarms are exposed to frequent moisture and friction—ideal conditions for breakouts. 

Symptoms include: 

Symptoms of underarm pimples

If left untreated, these bumps may turn into cysts or boils and require medical intervention. Don’t confuse them with regular acne, conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa need professional care.

Why do we get pimples on underarms? Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Before we explore effective underarm pimple treatment solutions, let’s first understand common causes behind pimples on underarms and associated armpit pimple pain: As we discussed earlier, we all know that they appear because of clogged pores, sweat, and bacteria. Painful armpit pimples also result from a combination of different factors.

Must Read: Effective Solutions for Clogged Pores on the Face: What Works Best?

Causes of underarm pimples

Folliculitis: Infected Hair Follicles

What is it? 

Folliculitis is the inflammation of a hair follicle that occurs due to infections by bacteria, fungi, or yeast. Folliculitis appears as small red bumps or bumps that contain pus centered around the hair. 

Symptoms:

  • Painful or itchy red bumps
  • Swollen hair follicles
  • Pus
  • Sensitive skin 

Prevention tips: 

  • Practice good hygiene, especially after sweating. 
  • Ensure hygiene by using your own razors and towels, and maintain skin comfort with gentle cleansing products.
  • Wear breathable clothing that lessens the build-up of sweat.

Ingrown Hairs: A Common Post-Shave Concern

What is it?

Ingrown hairs occur when hair that has been shaved or plucked grows back into the skin instead of outward. This can cause a small, painful bump that resembles acne.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • You might notice the skin turning red and inflamed, with itchy, pus-filled spots developing.
  • Tenderness around the hair follicles
  • Trapped hair under the skin that is visible

How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs:

  • Regularly exfoliate by using an exfoliating scrub in the shower to keep the hair follicles clear.
  • To avoid irritation, shave in the direction your hair naturally grows using a hygienic, sharp razor blade.
  • Use a soothing lotion or cold compress after shaving.

Must Read: Remove Ingrown Hair Safely: Expert Ingrown Hair Treatments

Contact Dermatitis: Irritation from Products or Clothes

What is it?

This condition is caused by an allergic reaction or irritation from deodorant, soaps, laundry detergent, or synthetic fabric. You might notice rashes, small eruptions, or general discomfort as a skin response.

Symptoms:

  • Inflamed spots that itch and appear red
  • Blistering or weeping skin
  • Burning or stinging feeling
  • Dry, cracked feel

Prevention Tips:

  • Choose unscented, hypoallergenic body products.
  • Avoid synthetic fabrics; choose cotton or breathable synthetic fabric.
  • If trying new body products, test on a small area of skin before applying it all over.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Chronic Underarm Inflammation

What is it?

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic skin disease that causes painful bumps under the skin that recur over time, usually in areas that sweat, like the underarms. The bumps can burst and ooze liquid, often leading to the formation of scars.

Symptoms:

  • Painful, boil-like bumps
  • Recurring bumps in the same spot over time
  • Foul smell from nodules when ruptured

Prevention Tips:

  • Try to stay at a healthy weight and avoid friction in the underarms.
  • Go for non-comedogenic skincare solutions to maintain clear, breathable skin.
  • Quit smoking as it aggravates symptoms.
  • Help prevent progression with effective medical treatment.

Yeast Infection

What is it?

The warm and moist environment creates a favorable environment for fungal infections. This can lead to itchy, red rashes and pus-filled bumps.

Symptoms:

  • Red, irritated patches
  • Itching accompanied by small pus-filled bumps or nodules.
  • Burning or sore sensation in the area

Prevention Tips

  • Make sure to keep your underarms dry and fresh all day long.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes that breathe.
  • Apply any antifungal creams that help or are prescribed by dermatologists.
  • Limit the use of topical antibiotics to help sustain the natural harmony of your skin flora.

Razor Burn: Skin Irritation from Frequent Shaving

What is it?

Razor burn is a form of skin irritation characterized by the friction of the blade during shaving. It generally manifests as red spots, sensitive skin, and raised bumps.

Symptoms:

  • Skin appears red and feels sore
  • A stinging or burning feeling
  • Minor rash that worsens with friction
  • Irritation following a shave

Prevention Tips

  • Use shaving cream or gel every single time to help lubricate the skin.
  • Dry shaving should be avoided to protect the skin
  • Use clean, sharp razors every time you shave.
  • Moisturize after shaving to help restore the skin barrier.

Friction: rubbing skin that initiates inflammation

What is it?

Repetitive friction from quick movements and tight clothing can all contribute to repeated irritation to the underarm skin. Skin irritation can then respond to the friction by becoming inflamed and creating bumps that look like pimples.

Symptoms:

  • Red, sore skin patches
  • Painful or burning tenderness
  • Small inflamed bumps
  • Trouble or discomfort while moving the arm

Prevention Tips:

  • Wear comfortable clothes that are lightweight, allow airflow, and don’t constrict movement.
  • Apply anti-chafing powder or cream while working out.
  • Stay clean and dry for bacterial growth reduction.

If you notice big, inflamed, or painful pimples on your underarms and are not able to manage them, then it might be time to consult a dermatologist. They can diagnose and treat all kinds of pimples on underarms and get rid of your armpit pimple pain. Some reputed clinics, like Evenly, also offer advanced underarm pimple treatment solutions that help manage pimples effectively.

Advanced Underarm Pimple Treatment Solutions in Bangalore, at Evenly Clinic

Here are some of the underarm pimple treatment solutions that help you to address the root cause of armpit/underarm pimple and their pain.

Topical Treatments with Active Ingredients

We prescribe topical medications that contain dermatologist-formulated topical agents with active ingredients that are scientifically proven to work, such as:

  • Benzoyl Peroxide—A powerful antibacterial that helps reduce the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, the cause of breakouts, and clear blocked pores.
  • Salicylic Acid—A beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deeper into the skin to exfoliate inside the pore, thereby unclogging the pore as well as controlling inflammation.
  • Tea Tree Oil-based gels—A natural antimicrobial anti-inflammatory that will effectively reduce swelling, redness, and the possibility of infection.

These are prescribed after skin-type analysis and are ideal for mild to moderate pimples on underarms.

Oral Antibiotics for Severe Conditions

If you are facing a painful, deep-seated underarm pimple that isn’t responding to topicals, oral antibiotics may be required. These are prescribed only after careful skin analysis by our Bangalore-based dermatologists. These oral antibiotics help reduce the spread of internal bacteria and control underarm inflammation. Each course is prescribed after a thorough consultation where we will examine your skin, entire diet, compatibility, and safety.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are not just for the face, we also perform medical-grade chemical peel treatment with salicylic acid or glycolic acid on underarms for deep cleansing and exfoliation. These ingredients unclog pores and rejuvenate the underarm area.

  • It gently exfoliates dead skin cells.
  • Lowers the chances of developing hyperpigmentation after skin irritation.
  • Improves skin texture & minimizes new breakouts

This is a wonderful option for patients who have dark underarms or uneven skin tone due to recurring breakouts.

Along with the customized treatments, we may also prescribe pH-balanced cleansers and non-comedogenic moisturizers. This helps to maintain a healthy underarm environment for the skin and minimize recurring painful armpit pimples.

Must Read: Glycolic Acid vs Salicylic Acid: Which Is Best for Your Skin Type?

Natural Remedies: Do They Work for Armpit Pimple Pain?

Yes, several natural remedies help soothe armpit pimple pain and reduce inflammation. But remember, this cannot replace the clinical treatments. They may offer temporary relief and support healing:

  • Apply a clean, warm, soaked cloth on pimples on underarms 2-3 times a day.
  • Apply a fresh aloe aloe vera gel on pimples; this helps reduce redness and accelerate healing.
  • Dab a diluted tea tree oil on the pimple using a cotton ball; doing this will cleanse and kill the bacteria.
  • Make a paste of turmeric and honey, apply it on the pimple, and after 20 minutes, rinse it off.

Note: Always do a patch test before applying any natural remedy on the skin to ensure safety, as the underarm area is sensitive.

Get Lasting Relief from Pimples on Underarms with the Right Treatment

If you’re tired of recurring pimples on underarms or dealing with persistent armpit pimple pain, then it’s time to consider advanced, personalized underarm pimple treatment solutions. We at Evenly Clinic diagnose and treat all kinds of pimples using advanced technologies. Our comprehensive range of acne treatment services includes topical treatments, oral treatments for more severe cases, the targeted procedures like chemical peels and carbon laser toning for facial pimples and pimples on underarms. The solutions we offer not only reduce the inflammation but also treat the root causes of your problem, preventing future breakouts. Ready to get rid of armpit pimple pain or stop recurring pimples on underarms in an effortless way? Then what are you waiting for? Book your underarm pimple treatment consultation today and enjoy smooth, irritation-free skin.

Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic – HSR Layout

Third Floor, 815, 27th Main Rd, above Bluestone, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102

Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic – Jayanagar

35, Ground Floor, Vinyas Arcade, 11th Main Rd, Vishya Bank Colony, 5th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560041

For health-related information, follow us on Instagram!!

Frequently Asked Questions

Pimples on the underarm are often caused by blocked sweat glands, friction, tight clothing, sensitivity to deodorants, irritation from shaving, and many others. Medical diagnoses like folliculitis and hidradenitis can also be responsible.

Not necessarily. Even with good hygiene, you can get armpit pimples due to other factors like skin type, sensitivity, and hormones.

No. Popping may make your infection worse by increasing inflammation, and sometimes it may lead to scarring as well. The best approach to treat pimples on underarms is to take a professional underarm pimple treatment.

Using unscented, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic deodorants will not trigger acne breakouts. But it is best to avoid it if you have sensitive skin.

Most pimples in the armpits are not contagious. However, if they arise from a bacterial or fungal infection, you should avoid sharing towels or razors and maintain good hygiene.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.

Book an Appointment

Start your journey to healthy skin and hair today.

    Share this article:

    Relevant Articles

    Leave a Comment

    Call us at 7337899030