10 Genius Aspirin Hacks You Need to Try

  • Crush 1 aspirin and add a few drops of clean water to form a soft paste.
  • Dab lightly on the bite (unbroken skin only).
  • Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
  • Follow with a plain, gentle moisturizer.

Good to know

  • Don’t use on broken, scratched, or infected bites.
  • If swelling is significant or you have signs of allergy (hives, wheeze, lip/tongue swelling), seek medical care immediately.

2) Brighten Dark Underarms (Use Carefully)

Underarm darkness can be linked to friction, shaving irritation, buildup from deodorants, or skin conditions. A diluted aspirin rinse may help lift buildup—but go slow, because underarm skin is delicate.

How to try it

  • Dissolve 2 crushed aspirin in 1 cup (240 ml) warm water.
  • Apply with cotton to clean, dry underarms.
  • Leave for 10–15 minutes (not an hour) and rinse thoroughly.
  • Moisturize with a fragrance-free lotion.
  • Start 2–3 times per week, not daily.

Good to know

  • If you notice stinging, redness, or increased darkness, stop and switch to gentle exfoliation (soft washcloth) and a fragrance-free antiperspirant.
  • Persistent underarm darkening can be related to medical conditions; consider seeing a dermatologist.

3) Tame Flakes: Dandruff Helper

Aspirin’s salicylate family is also used in some anti-dandruff products to help loosen flakes.

How to try it

  • Crush 2 aspirin to a fine powder.
  • Mix into the amount of shampoo you’ll use for one wash.
  • Massage into scalp (not nails) for 1–2 minutes, then rinse well and condition ends.
  • Use 1–2 times per week only.

Good to know

  • If you have redness, scabs, or suspected psoriasis/seborrheic dermatitis, see a professional for targeted care.

4) Spot-Treat the Occasional Pimple

A tiny dot of aspirin paste can be a once-in-a-while option for a single, angry spot.

How to try it

  • Crush 1 aspirin; add drops of water to make a paste.
  • Dab only on the blemish; avoid surrounding skin.
  • Leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse and moisturize.
  • Limit to once daily for up to 2 days.

Good to know

  • Don’t layer with strong actives (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, AHAs/BHAs) in the same routine—risk of irritation.
  • For frequent acne, look for evidence-based routines or see a dermatologist.