Underarm Skin Lightening in Newport Beach
Underarm hyperpigmentation — darkening of the skin from friction, shaving, deodorant use, or simply genetics — is one of the most common and least discussed skin concerns. IPL targets the melanin responsible for the darkening, progressively lightening the area with no downtime.
Underarm skin lightening at Plump uses the same IPL technology applied to facial pigmentation — intense pulsed light that targets melanin in the darkened skin, breaking down pigmented cells that are then cleared by the body over the following weeks. The underarm is a low-sensitivity area well-suited to IPL, with minimal discomfort and no disruption to daily activity after treatment.
At Plump Medical Spa in Newport Beach, Dr. Amir Mortazavi, MD performs IPL underarm skin lightening for patients with hyperpigmentation from any cause — friction, shaving irritation, post-inflammatory darkening, or natural pigmentation tendency in this area.
IPL underarm lightening is most effective for lighter skin types (Fitzpatrick I–III). The same skin type consideration that applies to facial IPL applies here. Patients with darker complexions have more background melanin that competes with the targeted pigment, increasing the risk of pigmentation changes. Dr. Mortazavi assesses skin type at consultation and may recommend alternative approaches for darker skin patients.
What to expect
Treatment
A cooling gel is applied to the underarm area. The IPL handpiece delivers light pulses across the treatment area. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild snap or warmth. Treatment takes 10 to 15 minutes per underarm. No numbing required.
After treatment
Mild redness for a few hours is normal. Darkened areas may appear more prominent for a few days before fading as the body clears treated pigment cells. Avoid deodorants containing alcohol for 24 hours after treatment. SPF is not needed for underarms but sun avoidance of the area is sensible.
Sessions and results
Most patients need 2 to 4 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart for meaningful lightening. Improvement is progressive with each session. Addressing the underlying cause — switching to gentler deodorant, adjusting shaving technique — helps maintain results between and after treatment.
Underarm hyperpigmentation is a concern many patients are too embarrassed to mention but have often lived with for years. IPL addresses it effectively for appropriate skin types with no downtime. All treatments performed personally.
Frequently asked questions
What causes dark underarms?
Underarm darkening can result from repeated friction from clothing, shaving irritation, deodorant ingredients (particularly those with alcohol or fragrance), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from ingrown hairs, or simply a natural tendency to pigmentation in skin folds. IPL targets the melanin responsible regardless of the underlying cause.
Is IPL underarm lightening safe for darker skin?
IPL is most appropriate for lighter skin types — Fitzpatrick I through III. In darker skin, the background epidermal melanin competes with targeted pigment, increasing complication risk. Patients with darker complexions should discuss alternative options with Dr. Mortazavi at consultation.
How much does underarm lightening cost at Plump?
Underarm IPL skin lightening at Plump Medical Spa in Newport Beach is $350 per session for both underarms. Most patients need 2 to 4 sessions for meaningful improvement.
Schedule a consultation
Underarm skin lightening is available at Plump Medical Spa in Newport Beach, serving patients throughout Orange County.
4667 MacArthur Blvd, Suite 310 — Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 568-7544 — info@plumpmedicalspa.com
Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm — By Appointment Only