Caring for Your Underarms

(Family Features) With summer weather finally here, increased sweating is bound to happen. While using a cleanser or lathering on sunblock may be an obvious part of a guy’s summer grooming routine – applying deodorant, and underarm health in general, is surprisingly important to men.

Research from Dove Men+Care shows that nine out of 10 men agree that deodorant is one of the most important personal hygiene products they use in order to feel clean, fresh and confident – and half of men feel it’s especiallyimportant on a warm summer day.

Don’t Sweat It

With increased temperatures and men opting for short – or no – sleeves, 87 percent are seeking a deodorant that will make them feel confident enough to expose their underarms. According to the research, men are facing challenges when it comes to picking the right product, such as irritation, wetness and odor – leaving half feeling uncomfortable and annoyed.

“The study clearly reveals the gap between the issues men face and easy solutions to their problems. Many men are dealing with underarm issues, but only three out of 10 have spoken to their friends or family about experiencing these challenges,” said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Terrence Keaney. “We need to change this. As a physician, I want men to feel comfortable speaking to a medical professional about their underarm issues, as there are many ways to treat and prevent them.”

Underarms Uncovered

The study shows that 72 percent of men are concerned with the health of their underarms and over half of men have experienced underarm irritation, which has caused more than 52 percent of these men to switch their deodorant.

“I see so many men continue to switch their deodorant trying to find the one that’s right for them instead of seeking help from a physician or talking to one another about what’s bothering them,” Keaney said. “I highly recommend using a product that has moisturizing agents, such as Dove Men+Care’s Cool Fresh antiperspirant stick, which was developed with a clinically proven, non-irritating formula and moisturizing technology to actively care for men’s skin.”

With so many men facing these common challenges, Dove Men+Care has teamed up with leaders in fitness, style and grooming, along with Keaney, to create the Guide to Complete Underarm Care, which aims to open a dialogue around underarm health.

“Since men are so hesitant to talk to their doctors or friends, I think this online guide will be a terrific resource for them to ask the tough questions they have traditionally been too embarrassed to ask,” Keaney said.

Tips for Underarm Care

• Talk to a doctor immediately if you’re experiencing underarm irritation to diagnose the cause.
• Stop using your current deodorant or antiperspirant product.
• Avoid products with strong fragrances if you have sensitive skin, seasonal allergies or asthma as these factors can contribute to underarm irritation.

To learn more about proper underarm care and simple ways to manage common issues, check out the Guide to Complete Underarm Care.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images