10 Best Underarm Whitening Products in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Did you know that we have an enzyme in our body called tyrosinase responsible for the melanin, aka the color of our skin? But sometimes, the body can create too much melanin leading to hyperpigmentation such as that seen in the underarms.

This is where kojic acid comes in, as it can stop tyrosinase activity and reduce melanin production. The great thing about kojic acid is that there's a lot of science backing it up, as multiple clinical trials have been done testing its efficacy and safety as a topical medication with lightening properties.

Vitamin C and niacinamide (aka Vitamin B3) are both anti-oxidants—meaning, they help protect the body, including the skin, from the damage of free radicals. Vitamin C's role in reducing hyperpigmentation is more prevention via fighting free radical damage. 

On the other hand, niacinamide acts by stopping melanosome transfer from melanocytes (pigment cells) to keratinocytes (skin cells), another process by which hyperpigmentation develops. The nice thing about niacinamide is that it also offers a lot of other benefits such as anti-oxidant properties, sebum regulation, and barrier protection.

Definitely, I'd consult a dermatologist before starting this one. Although it is true that exfoliating acids can help brighten skin by aiding in the cellular renewal of the skin, it's possible that irritation can develop given that the underarm is an area where the skin is thin and not to mention prone to occlusion.

Licorice extract, also known as glabridin, is derived from the root of the tree, Glycyrrhiza glabra linneva, which acts by inhibiting tyrosinase. It has been incorporated in skincare products given its antioxidant and skin lightening properties, particularly useful for sensitive skin types.

Deodorants are one of the most commonly used cosmetic products that people apply on their underarms daily. Deodorants are typically used to mask odor but newer products incorporate lightening ingredients as well. This makes them very convenient, no-fuss, and handy to be applied.

The main purpose of soaps and cleansers is precisely to cleanse. This is why they contain surfactants that lift dirt and aid in the solubility of oils. A lot of soaps in the market, however, have been incorporated with lightening agents. 

By virtue of its method of use wherein one applies it on the body and immediately washes it off with little contact time with the skin, it's definitely difficult to assess how much of the product is actually absorbed, lest if any effect can be brought about.

The skin of the underarm is unique - given its anatomic position and composition (rich in hair follicles and sebaceous glands). Thus, it requires specialized attention and care.

However, scrubbing is not encouraged as it can cause additional friction and irritation. Best to consult your board-certified dermatologist on this one as they can offer in-clinic procedures which use alpha-hydroxy acids in lower concentrations, such as glycolic acid, which would bring about exfoliation.

Aside from deodorants and soaps, lightening creams for the body, including the underarms, are also readily available in the market. It is very important to patch test the product before using it fully as the risk for contact dermatitis is definitely there. 

These creams may contain a variety of ingredients, including fragrance that may cause a reaction in sensitive individuals, all the more since it will be applied to a particularly sensitive area.