Skincare Case 131

Client Profile:

  • Age: 29 years
  • Gender: Female
  • Fitzpatrick Skin Type: 3-4
  • Skin Type: Dry
  • Main Concern: Darkening of the armpits

History:

The client recently noticed an increase in the darkness of her armpits, which coincided with the start of a new workout routine and playing volleyball. Additionally, she has started to wax her armpits with soft wax, which has led to a few minor irritations.

Home Care Routine:

She applies sunscreen two to three times a day and has started using moisturizers both in the morning and evening since beginning her workout regimen. She also washes her face every night with soap and water during her shower and uses micellar water to remove makeup when necessary.

Findings:

Upon examination, there was noticeable darkness in her armpits, though no signs of irritation or inflammation were present. Faint purplish stretch marks were also observed on her thighs and buttocks. Her facial skin was dry, and under a magnifying lamp, early signs of fine lines were visible, although these were not noticeable to the naked eye.

Skincare exams case 131
Case Discussion (Please click here)

The client is a 29-year-old female with Fitzpatrick skin type 3-4 and dry skin. Her main concern is the recent darkening of her armpits, which she has noticed since starting a new workout routine and playing volleyball. She has also started waxing her armpits with soft wax. She applies sunscreen and moisturizers daily and cleanses her face with soap and water or micellar water when wearing makeup.

Causes

The darkening of the armpits could be due to several factors. Frequent friction or irritation from workout clothes or playing volleyball could cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Waxing can also cause irritation and subsequent darkening of the skin. Moreover, hormonal changes, certain medications, or medical conditions such as acanthosis nigricans can cause darkening of the skin.

What’s Done Wrong

While the client is applying sunscreen and moisturizers daily, which is good, she might not be using the right products or techniques for her armpit care. For example, waxing can be harsh on the skin, especially if not done properly or with the right aftercare. In addition, she might not be using a gentle enough cleanser for her face, which could contribute to her dry skin.

Office and Home Treatment Options

  1. Office treatments: The esthetician could recommend treatments like gentle chemical peels or laser treatments that can help lighten the darkened skin.
  2. Home treatments: The client could try using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a moisturizer specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Topical creams or serums with ingredients like vitamin C, kojic acid, or niacinamide could also help lighten the skin.

Prevention

To prevent further darkening of the armpits:

  1. The client should consider using a different hair removal method that causes less irritation, such as shaving or laser hair removal.
  2. She should wear workout clothes made from breathable materials to reduce friction and irritation.
  3. She should continue applying sunscreen daily and also apply it to her armpits if they are exposed to the sun.

Home Care Daily Routine

AM:

  1. Cleanse face with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
  2. Apply a hydrating toner without alcohol.
  3. Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
  4. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to face and other exposed areas, including armpits if exposed.

PM:

  1. Remove makeup with micellar water if applicable.
  2. Cleanse face with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
  3. Apply a hydrating toner without alcohol.
  4. Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
  5. Apply a brightening serum with ingredients like vitamin C, kojic acid, or niacinamide to the armpits.

The client should also continue to hydrate well and maintain a healthy diet to support overall skin health. She should consult a dermatologist if the darkening of her armpits persists or worsens, as it could indicate an underlying medical condition.