The arrival of warmer days brings mixed feelings: you look forward to sunny days and long summer evenings, but far less to having to show your legs. And with good reason: your calves are dotted with stretch marks. So you won’t allow yourself to wear anything short. Time to let go of those hang-ups, because there are solutions! Here’s why these streaks appear on the calves, how to help limit their appearance and how to make them less noticeable: in-clinic techniques, camouflage or a skincare routine.
Why do I have stretch marks on my calves?
Stretch marks, those reddish or white streaks found on the skin of most of us, are caused by the breakdown of collagen fibres in the dermis. They can develop at any age and affect women (80 to 90%) as well as men (40%). They typically appear on the chest, stomach, hips and thighs, but some people also have them on the lower back, arms and calves.
Several factors can cause stretch marks to appear. Generally speaking, they result from rapid weight gain or loss. When the skin undergoes a sudden change in shape, it doesn’t have time to “adapt”. In places, its natural elasticity breaks down and micro-tears form: these are the stretch marks we all know. Puberty, sudden and rapid weight gain, pregnancy, muscle hypertrophy, excess cortisol production (due to stress or illness) or taking certain medications (contraceptives, corticosteroids) can all cause abrupt weight fluctuations and, as a result, damage to the skin.
When it comes specifically to the calves, two types of stretch marks can be seen. Horizontal stretch marks are caused by rapid leg growth, the result of the normal growth process during adolescence. Vertical stretch marks result from an increase in calf volume, most likely due to intense physical activity (weight training, cycling) or rapid weight gain.
What about stretch marks on the shins or elsewhere on the legs?
Stretch marks aren’t always limited to the calves. They can also mark the backs of the calves, the shins or other areas of the leg, with the thighs remaining one of the most typical areas. The mechanism is the same: the skin goes through a rapid change (a growth spurt during adolescence, an increase in muscle volume, weight fluctuations) and its collagen fibres break down in places.
The prevention tips and solutions below therefore apply to the whole leg. If stretch marks appear for no obvious reason, or while you’re taking medication, ask a doctor for advice.
How can I prevent stretch marks on my calves?
Preventing stretch marks is complicated. Some weight fluctuations are beyond our control (adolescence, necessary medication). However, by avoiding large weight changes and keeping your skin properly moisturised, you can try to limit the appearance of stretch marks on your calves. So:
- Take a look at your eating habits and favour a varied, balanced diet: legumes, citrus fruits, peppers, soy, tomatoes, carrots, dairy products, dried fruits, seeds or avocado all have their place on your table!
- Stay hydrated, and remember to moisturise the skin on your legs every day.
- Take up gentle sports (such as water sports) to keep your calves toned. Aim for steady progress rather than building volume quickly.
- Give your calves ultra-gentle scrubs and nourish your skin with natural ingredients such as plant oils (olive, sweet almond, argan, castor…).
How can I reduce the appearance of stretch marks on my calves?
Stretch marks usually cannot be erased completely, but they often become less noticeable over time. With that in mind, the aim is to accept them, knowing that they are a natural occurrence. Your beauty doesn’t depend on a few streaks on your legs! Nevertheless, you can improve the appearance of the stretch marks on your calves.
Technical solutions
Many techniques have been developed in recent years to reduce the furrowed look of stretch marks on the calves. They aim to make up for a lack of collagen (plasma injections, carboxytherapy), regenerate the dermis (microneedling, laser, LED, radiofrequency) and/or smooth the skin (peels, cosmetic surgery). Some are more expensive than others, but they all involve consultations with a professional.
The camouflage solution
Here, the idea isn’t to erase the stretch marks on your calves, but rather to hide them! You can apply a tinted cream or self-tanner to your legs. This will even out your skin tone and so disguise the stretch marks on your calves. However, it’s a short-term solution that does nothing to reduce them.
The skincare and moisturising solution
Finally, you can opt for a targeted skincare routine from Cellublue for the stretch marks on your calves. Regular use of products made with plant and essential oils helps to protect and nourish the skin day to day. Gentle exfoliation, daily moisturising and frequent massage can help improve the appearance of the stretch marks on your calves.
The complete stretch marks routine, from shower to massage, during and after pregnancy
- Instructions for use
- Friendly advice
How can I hide stretch marks on my calves in summer?
A tinted cream or self-tanner applied to your legs evens out your skin tone and makes stretch marks less visible. It’s a short-term solution that doesn’t reduce the stretch marks themselves. You can combine it with a regular skincare routine.
Can stretch marks on the calves be caused by medication?
This article mentions certain medications, such as corticosteroids or contraceptives, among the factors that can lead to weight fluctuations and the appearance of stretch marks. If you have any doubts about a treatment, ask your doctor for advice.
Related articles
- Stretch marks on the knees: how to reduce them?
- Natural Ways to Care for Stretch Marks
- Can Baking Soda Help Reduce Stretch Marks?
Useful categories: Stretch Marks on Calves, Stretch Marks.
