Armpit Brusing

I have recently noticed a bruise in my right armpit. I'm female, 20 yrs, and shave the area regularly. Sometimes I am prone to irritating the ingrown hairs there (pulling at them, tweezing etc) though I cannot remember doing this recently to the area (but I could have). The bruise is the size of a quarter (maybe smaller) and not very dark but noticeable. I've only noticed it for about a week or so. Should I get it looked at? There is no pain or any symptoms at all, really. Its just a discoloration that looks like a bruise to me. Could it just be gradual discoloration due to waxing and shaving?

thanks
xoxo

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This discoloration can be due to bruising, discoloration due to sweating or erythrasma. Erythrasma is an infection of the folds of the skin and the typical appearance is well-demarcated, brown-red macular patches. The skin has a wrinkled appearance with fine scales.
I suggest you to get an examination done from a dermatologist as the treatment is diagnosis specific.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.