Why You Get Stretch Marks Under Your Armpits

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. Women tend to do less weight training than men and 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 prepare your body for the effort and work on your flexibility;
• every session should also end with stretches;
• it is important to stay well hydrated, with water, before, during and after each workout.

2- Watch your diet

Looking after your skin also starts with what you eat. Like every other part of the body, the skin benefits from a varied diet that provides its share of vitamins and minerals. In particular, think of:

• vitamin C, found in fresh fruit and vegetables;
• provitamin A, found in colourful plant foods;
• vitamin A, found in offal and dairy products;
• vitamin B5, found notably in wheat germ, brewer’s yeast and cheese;
• vitamin E, found in vegetable oils, avocado and nuts;
• certain trace elements such as copper and zinc, 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 with regular application of moisturising and nourishing products, can help prevent them. Think natural plant oils (sweet almond, coconut, macadamia…), rich creams, plant butters (shea, cocoa) and DIY treatments made with honey or Aloe Vera. You can also use our Stretch Mark Prevention Oil. A blend of 5 pure oils (sesame, sunflower, olive, avocado, jojoba), it helps to nourish, soften and protect the skin. It is easy to use and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for everyone, men included! It can be used alongside our Stretch Mark Serum, a hydrating concentrate that helps keep skin well moisturised and supple.

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 (laser, radiofrequency, microdermabrasion, LED therapy, chemical peel…), with varying results and sometimes a significant cost;
• cosmetic solutions, easier to use and more affordable.

On that note, Cellublue has a simple routine that even the busiest people can stick to. It includes:

• our Stretch Mark Scrub, enriched with mango butter and wheat germ oil. It can be used 2–3 times a week on all areas of the body, including the armpits, as it is very gentle! It removes dead skin cells, leaving skin feeling softer and more supple;
• our Repair Cream, a rich, velvety cream that supports the skin’s natural renewal, to be applied daily.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if the stretch marks under my arms are uncomfortable or itchy?

If you experience discomfort or itching, or have any doubts about how your skin looks, ask a GP or dermatologist for advice.

Related articles

• Stretch marks on your stomach: what should you know?
• Stretch marks on the knees: how to reduce them?
• Stretch marks on the buttocks: what should you know?

Useful categories: Stretch Marks by Area, Stretch Marks.