Loose underarm skin is a common concern that can become more noticeable with aging, weight loss, genetics, or changes in muscle mass. Although exercise cannot completely remove excess skin, strengthening the muscles beneath the area may improve its overall appearance.
Loose skin beneath the upper arms can develop for several reasons, including aging and significant weight loss. As skin loses elasticity, it may become less firm and appear looser.
Exercise cannot directly remove excess skin, but strengthening the triceps and surrounding muscles may create a firmer-looking arm. MedlinePlus specifically lists push-ups and other triceps-building exercises as options for toning the back of the arms.
Useful exercises include:
The CDC recommends that adults perform muscle-strengthening activities at least two days each week, working all major muscle groups, including the arms.
Lifestyle habits may support general skin health, although they cannot eliminate substantial excess skin.
Consider:
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends protecting skin from excessive sun exposure because ultraviolet radiation contributes to premature skin aging.
For people who remain concerned about loose skin despite lifestyle changes, professional treatments may be an option. MedlinePlus notes that laser treatments can stimulate collagen production and tighten skin in some cases.
The American Academy of Dermatology also describes non-invasive treatments using technologies such as ultrasound, radiofrequency, and certain lasers. These treatments generally provide modest tightening rather than the degree of lifting associated with surgery.
Possible options include:
Results vary depending on the amount of loose skin, age, skin elasticity, and treatment used.
The amount of improvement possible without surgery depends largely on how much excess skin is present. Exercise may be more helpful when the concern is reduced muscle tone rather than significant excess skin.
Keep these points in mind:
The AAD notes that people with a small amount of sagging skin are generally more likely to see useful results from non-surgical skin-tightening procedures.
If loose underarm skin is primarily a cosmetic concern, a dermatologist can evaluate the skin and discuss realistic options. A professional assessment can help distinguish loose skin from other causes of changes around the upper arm.
Consider discussing:
If there is sudden swelling, a new lump, significant pain, or another unusual change rather than gradual loose skin, seek medical evaluation.Tightening loose underarm skin without surgery is possible to some degree, but results depend on the cause and amount of excess skin. Strength exercises can build the underlying triceps and improve arm definition, while healthy lifestyle habits can support overall skin health. Professional non-invasive treatments such as radiofrequency, ultrasound, and certain laser procedures may provide modest tightening for suitable candidates.