blistering rash in armpit

[matrix22]

I have developed a rash that is isolated to my right underarm. It started with some light red spots that after a few days get deep red then blister. I applied some powder and stopped putting on deoderant. It seem to clear up after a couple of weeks. It then reappeared. It does not hurt expect when the blisters break and the skin is raw.

[Peter T]

I have read other comments regarding underarm itch and nothing is being attributed to deodorant. I have this problem of great itching underarms.  It is nearly insatiable once the scratching starts.  I never use anti-perspirant,I always use deodorant. I am currently using a roll-on of mineral salts and it seemed to work for a while but now the rash has returned.  Is this asymptomatic for many people or am I just an isolated case among a very few...
Thanks for any help

Peter T

[shar1]

That sounds a little like hidradenitis.  Could it be?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

I doubt it.

Dr. Rockoff

[matrix22]

I also just found out that my wife started soaking my clothes in oxyclean and tide. The washer does not rinse well. Could the laundry chemicals cause this?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

It could be irritation.  Blisters could also be infection, but infections wouldn't come and go.  An allergy to antiperspirant wouldn't look like this, and would of course affect both sides.  I think you should clean the area gently, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic like bacitracin, and see a skin doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff