Itchy Armpits and Yeast Infection: What to Know

Yeast can multiply where skin rubs and stays damp, including the armpit. Deodorant, shaving, fragranced soap, tight clothing or eczema can also damage the skin barrier and produce itching. A rash that is spreading, weeping, cracked or painful needs an assessment because bacterial infection and contact dermatitis may need different care. Vaginal symptoms can occur at the same time but do not prove that an armpit rash is yeast.

Gently wash the area and pat it dry rather than rubbing. Wear loose, breathable clothing and change out of damp clothes after exercise. Pause new deodorants, fragranced products and shaving until the skin settles. Avoid scratching, sharing towels and applying steroid cream or a mixed cream unless a clinician has advised it. A pharmacist or clinician can recommend an antifungal treatment when the appearance fits yeast; follow the product directions and seek review if it does not improve.

Arrange medical advice if the rash is painful, hot, rapidly spreading, draining pus, associated with fever, or not settling with simple skin care. Seek prompt help for swelling of the face or trouble breathing after a product. A clinician may examine the skin and check for diabetes, medication triggers or another infection when the problem keeps returning.

Ask whether the rash looks like yeast, eczema, contact dermatitis or a bacterial infection; whether you should use an antifungal; how long to try it; and what to do if it returns. Mention recent antibiotics, new products, sweating, shaving and any vaginal discharge or itching. You can also read about [Vaginal Discharge](/symptoms/vaginal-discharge/), [Vaginal Itching](/symptoms/vaginal-itching/) and [Antifungal Treatment for Thrush](/treatments/medical-gynaecology/antifungal-treatment-for-thrush/).