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Sunday, February 15, 2026

Chicken Skin Armpits: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

HomeVital EdgeChicken Skin Armpits: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Observe how your underarm skin experiences change whenever you do something to it like plucking, shaving, or waxing. Sometimes, it gets wounded when the tweezers accidentally bite your skin. Most of the time, if you pluck it, it gets bumpy and rough. Underarm skin is sensitive and so thin.

If you notice small, hard, and rough bumps on your underarms, they aren’t pimples most of the time; they might be an accumulation of chicken skin. Chicken skin is also known as  Keratosis pilaris and is called so because it appears like the skin of a dead chicken without feathers.

chicken armpits
Chicken armpit

WHAT CAUSES THEM?

Chicken skin can occur on your underarms due to waxing and pulling out of hair. The underarm skin gets pulled together with the hair which makes the skin adapt to the outward and upward pulling direction that’s why the bump appears. The portion where the hair went out is left as a hole and a bump.

The tiny bumps that make the chicken skin as it is may be due to the clogging of tissues around the hair roots.

Clogging may happen when excessive Keratin fences in the hair follicles. Keratin is important to the hair because it is a set of fibrous structural proteins that help protect it from damage, but just like anything, too much is unfavorable.

It may also happen when the skin is dry. It can also be caused by using harsh deodorants and other cosmetic products on it.

BYE!

Although you have the choice to show off your underarms or not–and if you have chicken skin, of course, you will not–, you still have to do something to say goodbye to your chicken skin underarms. Here are some tips to do so:

1 – CLEAN THE RIGHT WAY

Some say that chicken skin is due to bad hygiene. Although it looks like that, it doesn’t seem so. Imagine earnestly using your body soap and watering your armpit each day to remove chicken skin on your underarms. Does it flatten the bumps? Nope. The problem is below the surface of the armpit and, thus, cannot be solved by doing that with all your heart. Touch Up Laser process uses concentrated laser light to prevent the hair follicle from regrowing.

Cleansing your underarms is good and necessary; cleansing them the right way is better. Of course, soaps are made with chemicals appropriate for cleansing purposes, however, if you need a way out of your chicken skin, you have to use the proper kinds.

Exfoliation is what your underarm skin needs and not just any “washing”. Dead skin cells must be scrapped off for the new and healthy skin to be restored. Salicylic acid and alpha hydroxy acids are among the important chemical contents of the moisturizers you must use. A cold shower is also better than a hot one as the coldness makes the skin firmer.

2 – GENTLENESS IS A GOOD IDEA

It is always a good idea to avoid skin products that contain strong chemicals because they irritate and inflame the skin and leave the skin dry, coarse, and in some instances, itchy.

3 – SOLVE NATURALLY

Your house is your biggest supply house because a lot of things you need (and even those you don’t) are there! Remedies for chicken skin may be spotted there. Some of them include coconut oil, yogurt, baking soda, and salt. They are very accessible if you are more in favor of the natural or just into what’s practical.

Coconut oil is one of the most common natural remedies for many health issues. It is perfect for chicken skin because it has anti-inflammatory attributes that make it safe and effective for delicate skin. Baking soda is also as common as coconut oil when it comes to skin problems’  preventing agents as it is also an effective moisturizing agent. Yogurt isn’t only delectable, it can be used as a moisturizer too because of the fats found in milk and as an exfoliant since it has lactic acid.    

4 – PLUCK NOT!

If plucking is the root, halt plucking right now. It may be the fastest and the most common way to eliminate underarm hair, but it also makes the underarm feel rough and develop pigmentation conditions. Even if it’s a common thing you do, it still hurts when you pluck hair every time since the plucking starts deep down the root.

Ingrown hair (hair growing into your underarm skin) which is also painful can take place if the hair is not properly pulled out. The skin portion where an ingrown hair rests is bumpy as well. For some, if the hair got broken upon pulling, they tend to dig into it and force it to come out. As a result, the left skin becomes a bump aside from getting damaged. Chicken skin also develops from these circumstances especially if they happen frequently and forcefully.

5 – LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Laser hair removal might be a good option for getting rid of chicken skin underarms. During the process, highly concentrated light is transmitted into hair follicles to eradicate the hair. The laser in the treatment removes the keratin that plugs the hair follicles and pores. The laser burns the hair follicle and root, thus, fewer marks and lesser chances of hair being reborn. This procedure is done to lessen underarm hair regrowth for smoother skin since you will need to pluck, wax, tweeze, and shave no more.

Is it suggested to have an underarm chicken skin laser?

Laser hair removal can be an effective solution for underarm chicken skin, as it targets the hair follicles and can help prevent the buildup of keratin that causes the rough bumps. However, it is important to consult with a dermatologist or licensed laser technician to determine if laser hair removal is right for you, as it may not be suitable for all skin types and can have potential side effects. Additionally, it is important to note that laser hair removal is a medical procedure and should only be performed by a trained professional in a safe and sterile environment.

ARMPITS CHECK!

Chicken skin is not a very unusual skin issue because it doesn’t only occur on the armpits, but also on other skin areas. Although it probably doesn’t bother you as much as other skin matters and illnesses do, it pulls down your self-confidence, makes you feel comfortable, and causes your underarm skin, in a certain way, to become unhealthy.

Again, take note of the causes of chicken skin on armpits to know why it occurs, so you’ll be more knowledgeable about where you got it or can get it and how it happens to the skin. Lastly, don’t forget the important recommendations mentioned for you to finally say “bye!” to those chicken skin on your underarms! 

FAQ: Chicken Skin Armpits (Keratosis Pilaris in Underarms)

What exactly is underarm chicken skin?

Underarm chicken skin, also called keratosis pilaris, is a skin condition where small, rough bumps appear on the armpits. These bumps are caused by excess keratin clogging the hair follicles, leading to a textured, bumpy appearance.

Can chicken skin underarms lead to infections?

Chicken skin itself is harmless, but scratching or aggressively plucking hair can break the skin, potentially causing irritation, redness, or bacterial infections if not properly cleaned and treated.

Does diet or hydration affect chicken skin in the armpits?

Yes. A diet lacking in essential fatty acids, vitamin A, or vitamin E may worsen keratosis pilaris. Drinking sufficient water and maintaining balanced nutrition can help improve overall skin texture.

Are certain hair removal methods better for sensitive underarm skin?

Yes. Shaving with a sharp, clean razor and using gentle, alcohol-free products reduces irritation. Avoiding frequent plucking or harsh waxing helps minimize bumps and pigmentation.

Can clothing choices influence chicken skin severity?

Tight, non-breathable fabrics can trap sweat and friction, worsening irritation and bumps. Wearing loose, breathable materials like cotton can help reduce flare-ups and promote smoother underarm skin.

How often should underarm exfoliation be done?

For most people, gentle exfoliation 2–3 times a week is sufficient. Over-exfoliation can irritate the skin and worsen bumps. Use chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or mild physical scrubs designed for sensitive skin.

Are natural remedies effective for underarm chicken skin?

Some natural remedies, such as coconut oil, yogurt, or oatmeal masks, can soothe and moisturize the skin. However, they work best as supportive care rather than complete treatments for keratosis pilaris.

Can chicken skin underarms fade on their own?

Yes, in some cases, keratosis pilaris can improve over time, especially with proper skincare and moisture. However, consistent care is usually needed to maintain smoother underarms.

Is laser treatment safe for all skin types?

Laser hair removal and laser therapy for chicken skin are generally safe, but effectiveness and risks vary with skin tone and sensitivity. Consultation with a licensed dermatologist is essential before treatment.

Are there medical treatments for stubborn underarm chicken skin?

Yes. Dermatologists may prescribe creams containing urea, retinoids, or salicylic acid to reduce keratin buildup and smooth the skin. These treatments are especially effective for persistent or severe cases.

Does chicken skin underarms affect sweat or odor?

No, keratosis pilaris does not impact sweat glands or body odor. It primarily affects the texture and appearance of the skin rather than its function.

Can stress or hormonal changes worsen chicken skin?

Stress and hormonal fluctuations can influence skin conditions in general. While they may not directly cause chicken skin, they can exacerbate dryness, inflammation, or skin sensitivity.

Also Read:

Pearls of Wisdom
Nicole Ann Pore
Nicole Ann Pore
Nicole Ann Pore is a writer, an events host and a voice over artist. Travel, health, shopping, lifestyle and business are among the many subjects she writes about. Through quality and well-researched writing, she informs and even entertains readers about things that matter. She is also interested in film critiquing and filmmaking. Giving all the glory to God, Nicole graduated Cum Laude from De La Salle University Manila, Philippines with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts.
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1 COMMENT

  1. Most people in my area don’t know that shampoos that grow your hair faster and longer (obviously without any sulfates, parabens or DEA) exist. Persons can now experience longer hair and have more possibilities. Certainly worth searching.

    If you’re considering alopecia, damaged hair, preventing skin disorders, hair growth, hair health in general, the same rules come to mind.

    In most cases, you will want to avoid hair treatments and products that use chemicals like parabens, DEA and sulfates.

    What’s beneficial for your hair is good for your skin as well.

    It goes without saying the content above is so useful for various reasons. It stays away from the usual traps and mistakes most fall into- using bad alternatives. Thank you so much!

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