Though it is a normal occurrence, having dark underarms can make one uncomfortable and ilang. Fortunately, there is a multitude of underarm whitening products in the market that address discoloration and keep your pits fresh. And with the right one, you can raise your arms with confidence!
In this article, we have curated a list of the best underarm whitening products you can buy online. We have also provided a guide to help you decide on which product to purchase—with some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. Scroll down to know more!
Quick List - Top Underarm Whitening Products
Luxe Organix
Infused With 10% Niacinamide to Restore and Lighten Underarms
Nivea
Confidence in Every Swipe, Bright Skin Starts Here
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Underarm darkening is a natural and more common occurrence than you would think. Discoloration can appear in areas other than your face, such as the back of your neck, elbows, and inner thighs. Underarm skin is about as sensitive as your eyelids, making them more prone to irritation and hyperpigmentation.
A prominent cause for dark underarms is excessive friction, as underarms often rub against something else, whether from shaving or tight clothing. The friction makes your underarms darken over time as it causes inflammation. This stimulates the cells to produce more pigment, which makes your skin darker.
Another culprit could be the type of underarm products that you use. Some deodorants and antiperspirants contain ingredients that could irritate your skin, such as synthetic fragrances. If you have an underlying medical condition like obesity, diabetes, or even polycystic ovarian syndrome, it could also cause your skin to darken.
Dark underarms or axillary hyperpigmentation can be due to several things. Typically, there is an increase in melanin production or abnormal distribution of this pigment in the epidermis and/or dermis after external injury.
This can be from friction, irritation from the products we apply, procedures we do to it (e.g., cleansing, shaving, plucking), to certain medical conditions such as obesity or diabetes which are prone to the development of what we refer to as acanthosis nigricans (dark, almost velvety underarms).
When choosing underarm whitening products, take note of ingredients that promote skin lightening. Make selections based on your preferences, and steer clear of any options that raise suspicion. Consulting with a dermatologist can provide assurance regarding suitability. For more details, refer to our buying guide below.
Lots of brands peddle their product to help you achieve instant whitening. But you also have to pay attention to its ingredients, particularly if any of them are actually good as a skin lightener. Here are some ingredients to look for when purchasing an underarm whitening product.
Kojic acid is an ingredient that is widely used in our country. It is primarily used for lightening the skin as it prevents the formation of tyrosine, an amino acid used to produce melanin. It is derived from the fermentation process used to make sake, soy sauce, or rice wine.
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 is considered a powerful antioxidant, which protects the skin barrier against free radical damage. It inhibits your skin’s melanin production and fades brown spots without altering your normal skin pigmentation. Meanwhile, niacinamide is also known as vitamin B3, and it helps improve hyperpigmentation.
It is less potent, but it contains fewer side effects than hydroquinone, a skin bleaching agent. Niacinamide often works best when paired with other ingredients such as antioxidants and prescription retinoids. Vitamin B3 in itself is rather mild and is better at treating rosacea and other inflammatory skin conditions.
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.
Lately, toners, particularly those containing exfoliating acids, have been hyped to double as underarm products that could help smoothen and brighten your pits. Exfoliating acids such as glycolic acid dissolve the skin's outer layer to reveal brighter and smoother-looking skin.
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 root extract is an ingredient that is used in traditional medicine. It is often used to control inflammation, rosacea, and acne, but it also has skin-lightening benefits. It is a rich source of antioxidants that can help reduce hyperpigmentation and prevent excess melanin from being produced.
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.
Underarm whitening products come in different forms such as deodorants, soaps, scrubs, and creams. It is not necessary to integrate all of them into your daily routine lest you irritate your delicate skin. The key is to find one that you could use consistently.
Using deodorant is a small yet important part of everyone’s daily routine. It is almost automatic to swipe on deodorant or antiperspirant after showering to keep ourselves smelling fresh and promote good hygiene, especially in a country as humid as ours.
If you want a pretty low-maintenance route, you can look for deodorants that are formulated with skin-lightening ingredients. These serve the dual purpose of preventing you from smelling bad and reducing dark spots at the same time.
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.
Some form of whitening soap is always present in Filipino households, as it keeps the skin looking bright. If you’re the type who doesn't like applying too many products to your underarms, you can opt to use soaps instead.
The good news is that lots of whitening soaps contain skin-whitening ingredients, so it is just a matter of choosing one to suit your preference. But for best results, consistency is key! Using it regularly can bring about the desired effect.
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.
Dark underarms could also be caused by the build-up of dead skin, which could happen if you don’t exfoliate every once in a while. You could do physical exfoliation by making your own homemade remedy or chemical exfoliation using acids present in toners. Or, you could detoxify your pits using clay masks.
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.
Unlike deodorants or soaps, creams are applied in the morning and at night for maximum efficacy. Keep in mind that some creams can take longer than others for you to see effects, so have a little patience.
It's also important to apply the cream to clean underarms. Just like you ensure to apply skin care products on a clean face, the same goes for underarm creams. This is to ensure that it's properly absorbed by your skin.
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.
Nowadays, there are lots of products in the market that claim to lighten underarms instantly. However, you should know that it could take some time, especially if you are using acid peels. You wouldn't want to overdo it.
Make sure to purchase products that come from reputable brands and not suspicious looking ones as it could contain toxic chemicals such as mercury, which could only worsen your skin condition.
When shopping for skincare products, remember just because they're sold on the shelves doesn’t mean they're automatically safe to use. It's important that you do your research. It can be challenging to navigate ingredients lists on most skincare product labels, thus, when in doubt Ask Your Derma!
If you are unsure of what product to buy, that is totally fine. We recommend that you consult with a dermatologist to find one that is suitable for you. It is also important to hear their advice if you want a more potent product. This applies especially when it comes to chemicals, instead of just blindly purchasing whatever is trending at the moment.
It's definitely advisable to seek a consultation with your board-certified dermatologist of choice! They can help you identify the possible cause of the underarm darkening as well as the product and/or procedure that would enable you to achieve the best and safest results.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Type | Key Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Belo Underarm Whitening Cream | ![]() | Dermatologist-Approved Whitening Cream for Sensitive Underarms | Cream | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin E, Hydroxyphenoxy Propionic Acid | 40 mL | |
2 | Luxe Organix Intensive Whitening Underarm Cream | ![]() | Infused With 10% Niacinamide to Restore and Lighten Underarms | Cream | Niacinamide 10%, Alpha‑Arbutin, Licorice Root Extract, Tranexamic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) | 40 g | |
3 | Nivea Deodorant Extra Brightening Antiperspirant Stick with Vitamin C | ![]() | Confidence in Every Swipe, Bright Skin Starts Here | Deodorant | Vitamin C, Vitamin E | 50 mL | |
4 | Belo Intense White Deo Spray | ![]() | Your Gentle Solution for Pigmentation, Sweat, and Odor | Deodorant | Actiwhite (Pea Extract, Witch Hazel Water, Plum Extract, Vitamin E), Alpha Arbutin | 140 mL | |
5 | Kojiesan Skin Lightening Soap Classic | ![]() | Kojic Acid Soap for a Glowing and Radiant Skin | Soap | Kojic Acid, Coconut Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Glycerin | 65 g | |
6 | Gluta-C Underarm and Bikini Lightening Gel | ![]() | Whitening Gel Deodorant for Underarms and Bikini Area With Glutathione and Vitamin C | Skin Gel | Glutathione, Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Allantoin | 20 mL | |
7 | GlutaMAX Lightening and Anti-Persipirant Deo | ![]() | Confidence That Lasts All Day | Deodorant | Glutathione, Vitamin C, Natural Plant Extracts, Allantoin | 50 mL | |
8 | A BONNE Milk Salt Spa | ![]() | Nourishing Milk Salt Scrub for Radiant Skin | Scrub | Milk Protein, Vitamin E, Sodium Chloride | 350 g | |
9 | SkinWhite Glutathione Deodorant | ![]() | Whitening Deodorant With Glutathione and Vitamin C for Brighter, Smoother Underarms | Deodorant | Glutathione, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Vitamin B3 | 25 mL | |
10 | Dr. Sensitive Underarm Whitening Serum | ![]() | Lightweight Whitening Serum for Brighter Underarms | Cream | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin C, Allantoin | 50 mL |
Many say it’s worth every peso, an affordable yet effective option for daily use. One reviewer shared that it helped lighten her underarms and saved her from expensive laser treatments. Another mentioned that it brought back her confidence to wear sleeveless tops.
Product Type | Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin E, Hydroxyphenoxy Propionic Acid |
Net Weight | 40 mL |
Product Type | Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide 10%, Alpha‑Arbutin, Licorice Root Extract, Tranexamic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) |
Net Weight | 40 g |
Product Type | Deodorant |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Vitamin C, Vitamin E |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
It is frequently praised for its light scent and non-sticky finish, while effectively controlling sweat and odor throughout the day. Users say they noticed visible brightening after a few weeks, and love that it doesn’t sting even after shaving. Many also find it more affordable compared to similar whitening deodorants.
Product Type | Deodorant |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Actiwhite (Pea Extract, Witch Hazel Water, Plum Extract, Vitamin E), Alpha Arbutin |
Net Weight | 140 mL |
Many buyers say this soap delivers noticeable brightening with regular use, especially on dark spots and uneven skin tone. Some mention a mild stinging sensation upon application, which they associate with the product’s exfoliating effect. Despite this, users often report smoother, clearer skin over time. It’s a staple in the routines of those targeting hyperpigmentation, though several caution to use sunscreen due to increased skin sensitivity.
Product Type | Soap |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Kojic Acid, Coconut Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Glycerin |
Net Weight | 65 g |
Customers love that the lightweight gel absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy on the skin. It’s often praised for effectively reducing odor and sweat while helping fade dark spots in delicate areas. Many users choose it specifically because it’s alcohol-free and doesn’t sting after hair removal. Some say it works best when used consistently and pairs well with their whitening skincare routines.
Product Type | Skin Gel |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glutathione, Vitamin C, Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Allantoin |
Net Weight | 20 mL |
Product Type | Deodorant |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glutathione, Vitamin C, Natural Plant Extracts, Allantoin |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Reviewers love how this scrub leaves skin ultra-soft and hydrated, even after one use. Its mild formula is a hit for sensitive skin, though a few mention the granules dissolve quickly. Many use it pre-shave for smoother results.
Product Type | Scrub |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Milk Protein, Vitamin E, Sodium Chloride |
Net Weight | 350 g |
Reviewers often point out that this delivers effective whitening results within a few weeks, especially with regular use. Its gentle formula is appreciated by those with sensitive underarms, with no sting after shaving. Users also enjoy the clean, fresh scent and say it keeps them odor-free all day. Several buyers note that the smooth glide and non-sticky finish make it a staple in their daily routine.
Product Type | Deodorant |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glutathione, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Vitamin B3 |
Net Weight | 25 mL |
Users say this serum is effective at lightening underarms with consistent use, especially when applied twice daily. Its watery, fast-absorbing texture is a favorite for those who dislike sticky or creamy formulas. Many mention that it soothes freshly shaved skin and doesn’t cause stinging. The mild scent and noticeable improvements in texture and tone are key reasons it’s often repurchased.
Product Type | Cream |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin C, Allantoin |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Below, Dr. Katrina answers some of the web's most asked questions, so before you hit that check out button, have a read to make sure you make informed decisions!
Absolutely a no-no! Definitely, keep your toothpaste for your teeth!
The best way is to minimize friction and trauma. If you can avoid plucking and/or shaving, all the better. You can also consult a board-certified dermatologist, as we have quite a couple of procedures in our arsenal that can help improve chicken skin, particularly lasers.
This is also a big no! It is best to keep the calamansi in the kitchen!
Looking for other underarm products? Here are other items you can use whether you want a brighter looking kili-kili or a more natural deodorant option.
Re-editors: Aprille Jarcia, Danielle Trinidad
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Belo|Underarm Whitening Cream
No. 2: Luxe Organix|Intensive Whitening Underarm Cream
No. 3: Nivea|Deodorant Extra Brightening Antiperspirant Stick with Vitamin C
No. 4: Belo|Intense White Deo Spray
No. 5: Kojiesan|Skin Lightening Soap Classic
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others