When we talk about stretch marks, we naturally think of those small streaks that appear on the thighs, hips or stomach, following weight fluctuations. But we rarely imagine they could show up on other, more unexpected areas of the body: the backs of the knees, calves, or even the armpits. Yet in certain situations, stretch marks can indeed appear under the arms. Find out why — and how to prevent them.
Why do stretch marks develop under the armpits?
The case of stretch marks in the armpit area is quite specific, as it is mainly observed in the context of muscle hypertrophy. Intensive weight training, for example, typically leads to significant muscle development in the shoulders-biceps-chest-back area — at least when that area is being worked, which is very often the case. It is not weight training itself that causes stretch marks, but rather substantial, intense and rapid muscle growth. The skin undergoes intense stretching and sometimes gives way.
It is worth noting that stretch marks under the armpits are more common in men than in women, who not only tend to do less weight training than men, but also generally gain less muscle volume.
What can you do about stretch marks under the armpits?
1- Moderate your training
To prevent stretch marks from appearing under the armpits, the first step is to keep your weight training in check. Here is what is recommended:
- train with moderation, without pushing too hard, and avoid always targeting the same muscle groups (one session for arms and back, one for abs, one for legs…);
- before lifting weights, it is important to stretch properly, to oxygenate the tissues and, above all, to work on the skin’s suppleness and elasticity;
- every session should also end with stretches ;
- it is important to stay well hydrated, with water, before, during and after each workout.
2- Eat for skin health
Preventing stretch marks also starts with what you eat. Certain nutrients support healthy skin. Like every other part of the body, the skin needs its share of vitamins and minerals. Specifically:
- vitamin C, found in fresh fruits and vegetables, boosts collagen production for stronger, more elastic skin;
- provitamin A, an antioxidant found in colourful plant foods, which supports the synthesis of vitamin A;
- vitamin A, which stimulates cell renewal, found in offal and dairy products;
- vitamin B5, which contributes to tissue growth, found notably in wheat germ, brewer’s yeast and cheese;
- vitamin E, which supports dermal regeneration, found in vegetable oils, avocado and nuts;
- certain trace elements such as copper and zinc, which encourage skin cell activity, found in seafood and shellfish, offal, cocoa and wholegrains.
3- Give your skin the care it deserves
Finally, preventing stretch marks under the armpits also means taking proper care of your skin. A consistent skincare routine, combining massage and regular application of moisturising and nourishing products, goes a long way in keeping them at bay. Think natural plant oils (sweet almond, coconut, macadamia…), rich creams, plant butters (shea, cocoa), DIY treatments made with honey or Aloe Vera, as well as our Huile Prévention Vergetures. A blend of 5 pure oils (sesame, sunflower, olive, avocado, jojoba), it nourishes, softens, protects and regenerates the skin. Easy to use, it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue — making it suitable for everyone, men included! It can be used alongside our Sérum Vergetures, an intensive hydrating concentrate that keeps skin deeply moisturised and less prone to breaking down.
4- Treating stretch marks under the armpits
If stretch marks have appeared under your armpits despite your best efforts, all is not lost! There are several ways to reduce their appearance :
- aesthetic medicine treatments (aesthetic medicine) such as laser, radiofrequency, microdermabrasion, LED therapy, chemical peel…), with varying results and sometimes a significant cost;
- cosmetic solutions, easier to use and far more affordable.
On that note, Cellublue has a simple routine that even the busiest people can stick to. It includes:
- our Gommage Vergetures, enriched with mango butter and wheat germ oil, which can be used 2–3 times a week on all areas of the body (including the armpits, as it is very gentle!) to remove dead skin cells while boosting the skin’s mechanical properties (resilience and suppleness);
- our Crème Réparatrice, a rich, velvety cream that supports skin healing and regeneration, to be applied daily.
