8 Best Stretch Mark Creams, Oils and Butters, Tested by Moms-to-Be
In a nutshell:
Based on our product testing by expectant parents, survey feedback from members of The Bump community and expert advice from three board-certified dermatologists, we recommend Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion as the overall best stretch mark cream for pregnancy. This top cream rated highly for its hydrating formula, ease of application and economical price point.
Pregnancy is a transformative process, both emotionally and physically. Your body undergoes rapid growth to accommodate baby, and stretch marks—those red or purple lines that eventually fade to white or silver scars—are a common side effect of skin being pulled tight as your bump expands. With three pregnancies under my belt, I’ve seen my body go through some serious shape-shifting, stretching and ‘bounce-back’ moments. For the record, stretch marks (aka mommy tiger stripes) are nothing to be ashamed of. These little love lines are a reminder of resilience and strength. While embracing my tiger stripes has been empowering, I’ve also tried tons of stretch mark creams, oils and solutions over the years. As a result, I know what works—and what doesn’t.
So, what exactly are stretch marks and how should you treat them? “Stretch marks begin to appear when the body expands at a faster rate than the skin can grow,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a dermatologist in New York City. “When someone sees a rapid weight gain, their body attempts to repair the deep layers of damaged skin. However, during that restoration period, the texture might come back as raised or indented, therefore emerging as a scar,” continues Engelman. According to Jennifer MacGregor, MD, a dermatologist in New York City, you can’t completely prevent stretch marks, as genetics play a big role in their development. But if you’re hoping to reduce the appearance of existing scars, pregnancy stretch mark creams, belly butters and oils may help. “Adding a moisturizer to your routine earlier in pregnancy can help soften skin as it stretches,” explains Joyce Teng, MD, a dermatologist and director of pediatric dermatology at Stanford Medical School.
Curious to learn which ingredients to look for (and avoid)? Scroll to the end of this article for all the important info you need to make an informed choice. Plus, browse a selection of the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy that have been tried and tested by expectant moms.
The Bump editors conducted extensive research to identify the 31 best stretch mark creams, oils and butters on the market, and chose a shortlist of 18 products to test. From there:
- We enlisted 18 pregnant parents-to-be to thoroughly test the leading options on the market. We matched creams to testers in different stages of pregnancy and with a range of skin types. They then based their reviews of the creams’ effectiveness, feel, scent, ingredients, ease of use and value for money.
- We interviewed three board-certified dermatologists to better understand how stretch mark creams work—plus advice on what to look for and avoid in topical treatments.
- We consulted guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) and read relevant medical studies on why stretch marks appear and effective ways to treat them.
- We surveyed 300 new and expectant moms and asked them to rate the stretch mark creams they used during pregnancy.
- Because every family’s experience is different, we scoured forums and message boards and read user reviews to find out how these stretch mark creams, oils and butters performed for parents across the country.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Overall best stretch mark cream
- Moisturizing but not greasy
- Excellent value
- Easy to apply
- Lingering scent
- Lengthy ingredient list
Coming out on top for another year running, the beloved Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks has been a favorite for decades—literally. The company has been around since 1840, and over the years, countless parents have used and approved of this highly popular stretch mark cream. In fact, 33 percent of our survey respondents told us that they turned to this brand for reliable, effective stretch mark creams during their pregnancies. So, what makes this tried-and-true product stand out and worthy of a second Best of The Bump award for overall best stretch mark cream? Let’s dive into it. (See all of this year’s Best of The Bump winners.)
Our product tester Emily gave this pregnancy stretch mark cream a 10 out of 10 score across all categories, including ease of use. When applying it, she said, “it was the perfect texture, not too thick but not too thin and oily.” Finding that balance in a stretch mark cream can be a challenge, but Palmer’s was up to the task. Emily loved that “it rubbed right in and didn’t feel sticky or gross after. It definitely helps keep your skin moisturized!” MDmomma1217, a parent from The Bump community forums, was also a fan of the hydrating consistency. “I use it all over my stomach and chest and feel like it's thick enough to keep the itching away for a long time,” she shared. What’s more, survey respondents say that the stretch mark cream is “non-greasy” and its convenient pump design makes it “easy to use” for added comfort and convenience.
This lotion for stretch marks also earned a perfect score for effectiveness. Many moms love how the cream can be counted on to minimize existing stretch marks and prevent new ones from forming. Emily wholeheartedly agrees. “I already had stretch marks from previous pregnancies but this product definitely made a difference while I was using it. It keeps your skin moisturized and feeling great,” she raved. jhenry1204, another parent from The Bump community forums, also found the cream to be a success. “I had stretch marks on my thighs from early on, and it's helped stop more from forming,” she shared.
If that’s not all, Palmer’s is reasonably priced. “It comes with a lot, and a little goes a long way,” Emily gushed. Ringing in at just $0.04 per milliliter, this lotion was the most affordable option we tested by a long shot. One potential downside to consider is the cocoa butter scent, which Emily says lingers on the skin. However, most expectant moms seem to be fans of the fragrance. “The smell is simple and not overwhelming,” Emily reported. Overall, it’s safe to say that Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks checks all of the boxes on our list. After testing, Emily would highly recommend this pregnancy stretch mark cream to other moms-to-be.
Quantity: 8.5 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Cocoa butter, shea butter, glycerin, almond oil, collagen
Our product tester says:
“I would recommend this product, just /[as it was] recommended to me. My sister-in-law used it all through her pregnancy and even after. It has helped her A LOT!”
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Our community says:
It's easy to apply and feels good on my skin. I've had no stretch marks since using. – Sabrina, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
Overall best belly oil for pregnancy
- Fast-absorbing
- Doesn’t stain clothes
- Easy to dispense
- Only seven plant-based ingredients
- Some moms find it hard to rub in evenly
Body oils aren’t a fit for everyone, but if you’re in the “yes, please” camp, we can’t recommend the Honest Company Glow On Body Oil enough. From the get-go, our product tester Olivia found this Best of The Bump winner for overall best belly oil to be delightful. While similar skin care products can be excessively greasy or sticky after application, that wasn’t the case here. “The oil was very easy to apply and rubbed in quickly without leaving any greasy residue on my skin,” Olivia told us. Plus, “the consistency was perfect—not too thick or too runny—which made application smooth and efficient,” she praised, calling the feel of the oil “luxurious.”
Though some belly oils can stain clothes or be tricky to dispense, Olivia didn’t run into any application issues. She appreciated the squeeze bottle design, which made it easy to dispense the exact amount she needed at any given time. Likewise, “I appreciated that it didn't leave any stains or marks on my clothes, allowing me to use it throughout the day without concern. Additionally, the bottle's compact size made it easy to store, and it fits neatly in my bag and skin care counter,” Olivia explained. Since bellies can get dry or itchy during pregnancy, being able to apply this oil frequently is a game-changer.
Olivia described this belly oil as “highly effective,” awarding it a 10 out of 10 for effectiveness. She was thoroughly impressed with how the oil improved her skin’s elasticity and hydration. “It significantly reduced any itchiness I was experiencing, making my skin feel smoother, softer, and more supple. After three days of consistent use, I noticed a visible improvement in my skin's overall appearance,” she gushed. This can be attributed to the oil’s rich, plant-based formula, which features only seven ingredients, including organic coconut, avocado and olive oils. With that in mind, the Glow On Body Oil is a top-notch choice for those who prefer eco-friendly, minimal ingredient lists. If you’re on the hunt for a fragrance-free belly oil that’s hydrating, calming and effective, you can’t go wrong with this option from The Honest Company.
Quantity: 4.2 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Sunflower oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, coconut oil
Our product tester says:
“Its natural ingredients, skin-loving qualities and undeniable bump-pampering powers make it an essential addition to any pregnancy routine for a radiant, glowing you!”
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Overall best belly butter for pregnancy
- Easy to apply
- Effective at hydrating skin
- Good value
- Some ingredients aren’t easily identifiable
Queen bees and expectant mothers actually have a lot in common: You’re both incredibly important and take care of high-level matters for the hive. That’s why you deserve some honey at the end of the day—and a Best of The Bump winner like Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter is sure to bring it. The shea butter and vitamin E-rich body butter is great value, and according to our tester, Meredith, skin “feels great after only a few uses.”
The secret behind this stretch mark product is the natural fat from the fruit of the karite tree. This ingredient bolsters the other moisturizers in the formula and improves elasticity, protecting against the physical tax of pregnancy. When skin is kept supple, it’s better able to accommodate the stretching and itching that can come with each trimester. It certainly did for Meredith, who told us, “my skin is noticeably less itchy” after using it. Better yet, well-maintained, comfortable skin can recover more easily after baby is born, which is encouraging after a long nine+ months of bodily changes.
Applying the Mama Bee Belly Butter is a piece of cake, which isn’t always the case with belly butters. Compared to products she has used in the past, Meredith told us she appreciated how simple this product was to put on, rating it a 10 out of 10 for ease of use. “The package opened easily and the product wasn’t goopy, so it’s easy to apply,” she said. Meredith also appreciated how this product was truly fragrance-free, making it an excellent choice for expectant women who are scent-sensitive.
Meredith was a big Burt’s Bees fan already, so she had high hopes for the belly butter based on brand trust alone—and it lived up to her faith. “I’ve used their lotions and makeup before and generally trust their ingredients, and this product is no different,” she shared. She gave the Mama Bee Belly Butter an impressive 10 out of 10 for effectiveness and value for money, making it an easy choice for the overall best body butter for pregnancy.
Quantity: 6.5 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Sunflower oil, coconut oil, shea butter, almond oil, cocoa butter
Our product tester says:
“I’d recommend this product as I found it actually did make my skin feel good and less itchy. I also trust the Burt’s Bees brand.”
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Our community says:
Simple and hydrating! – Finley*, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
I use Burt's Bees Mama Belly Butter and love it. I don't know if it keeps away stretch marks, but it feels so good, and my tummy stays soft all day. – leslienpete, The Bump forum member
Best stretch mark product for fading stretch marks
- Tester found it reduced color of stretch marks
- Easy to apply
- Undergone clinical testing
- Can be greasy
- Contains mineral oil
You may already be familiar with Bio-Oil Skincare Oil—it’s been a cult favorite in the skin care world for years, and now it’s earned a Best of The Bump award as best belly oil for fading stretch marks. The formula was developed by a chemist to supplement the skin’s natural oil production, which, in turn, soothes itchy skin and improves the appearance of stretch marks over time. As a result, it’s a great option for expectant moms hoping to fade existing scar tissue while also preventing more from forming. This is backed up by Bio-Oil’s clinical studies, which found that the product is effective at improving the appearance of stretch marks. After two weeks, 95 percent of test subjects showed improvement, and after eight weeks, that percentage jumped to 100 percent. Engelman can also speak to its success. “I personally used it throughout both of my pregnancies and found it to be a lifesaver when I was in need of deep moisturization and minimizing the appearance of stretch marks,” she shared.
With that in mind, it came as no surprise that Ivy, our product tester, awarded Bio-Oil Skincare Oil a 10 out of 10 for effectiveness. “I applied this at night and noticed that my skin was noticeably smoother and softer in the morning,” she gushed. Ivy also found that it successfully relieved the itchiness she’d been experiencing as her belly grew. “I even tried using it as a spot treatment on itchy spots and it helped reduce itching in those areas immediately,” she shared. Nina*, an expectant mom who responded to our survey, agreed that it was effective in soothing skin and reducing scar tissue. “I like the way it feels, and it has helped reduce the color of my stretch marks,” she told us.
Due to its thin consistency, Bio-Oil takes a little while to sink into the skin, so a little goes a long way. Ivy told us that she rubs it in at night for this reason, but apart from that, she found application to be a breeze. She particularly liked the user-friendly bottle, which makes it easy to get the right amount of belly oil out without making a mess. Likewise, Ivy appreciated the minimal scent, which she described as clean and not overpowering. “I can be very sensitive to scents, and often they can give me headaches if too floral or too strong, but this was very mild and didn't linger too long,” she explained. It’s easy to see why this belly oil earned perfect scores for ease of use and fragrance, among others.
Bio-Oil is made from nourishing plant oils, which “provide essential moisture to the skin barrier and also support skin elasticity,” explains Engelman. Because it contains rosemary oil and retinyl palmitate (a vitamin A derivative), we’ve come across some discussion in online forums about whether this oil is pregnancy-safe. Engelman reassures expectant moms that it is. “Bio-Oil has been evaluated by qualified toxicologists and is deemed as safe for pregnant and lactating women,” she states. Moreover, she explains that the very low concentrations of these ingredients in Bio-Oil should not be cause for concern. In fact, “there is no scientific evidence to prove any negative effects of retinyl palmitate in Bio-Oil during pregnancy,” she says. While Engelman strongly recommends that pregnant women avoid products with moderate to high amounts of rosemary oil, Bio-Oil doesn’t fall into this category.
Engelman’s final advice: “I would advise applying Bio-Oil no more than one to two times per day, as anything used in excess can lead to potential risks.” If you have any reservations, she suggests performing a patch test on your arm before using the oil on a large or sensitive area of skin. And of course you can also use it post-pregnancy, as Ivy noted. “I will enjoy using this the rest of my pregnancy for sure and will find other ways to use it once my pregnancy is over,” she raved.
Quantity: 4.2 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Mineral oil, vitamin E, vitamin A palmitate, calendula, jojoba oil
Our product tester says:
“It has helped to keep my belly nice and hydrated and helped a bunch with itchiness. Plus, it feels luxurious to apply.”
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Our community says:
I have no stretch marks and believe it's because of my early start and consistent use of the oil. Kristina, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
Best stretch mark product for scent-sensitive moms
- Light clean scent good for sensitivity
- Simple application
- Allergy tested
- High cost per application
- Lengthy ingredient list
A heightened sense of smell is a common pregnancy symptom. This can be frustrating when skin care shopping, as many creams and lotions tend to be lightly fragranced. But with the Belli Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream, that won’t be an issue. A fresh addition to our list this year, this Best of The Bump winner is a must-have for expectant women who are scent-sensitive.
Diana, our product tester, was a big fan of this stretch mark cream’s lack of strong fragrance, rating it a 10 out of 10 in this category. She reported that there was no overpowering scent to linger on the skin, something she particularly appreciated, having a sensitive nose during her pregnancy. And even though it’s light on scent, you can still count on it to be effective. “I like the texture of it, the way it soaked into my skin nicely and how it left no residue,” said Diana, adding, “I haven’t had any new stretch marks, so that’s a win for me,” she told us.
If you’re drawn to visually appealing packaging, the Belli Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream may not be your first choice. However, the squeeze tube packaging received praise from Diana. Compared to tub containers that require unscrewing a lid and scooping, she found this option much simpler to apply. All in all, this pregnancy stretch mark cream proves to be an excellent choice for a belly that needs hydrating, and a nose that needs relief.
Quantity: 6.5 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Glycerin, vitamin E, caffeine, avocado oil, ginseng extract
Our product tester says:
“/[This cream] doesn’t have much of a smell and definitely not anything that lingered on my skin or hands. As someone who is sensitive to smells, I can appreciate it not being overpowering.”
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Best stretch mark product for dry skin
- Good for eczema and dry skin
- Only seven naturally derived ingredients
- Luxe packaging
- High price point
A good belly oil has many awesome benefits, like improving elasticity and only needing a very small amount for each application. However, when compared to thicker creams, they aren’t always the most moisturizing. This especially rings true for prospective parents whose skin has a tendency towards dryness. If this sounds familiar to you, then you can’t go wrong with The Oil from Ingrid + Isabel, our Best of The Bump winner for best belly oil for dry skin. Our product tester Shelby suffers from eczema and told us that she found this belly oil to be highly soothing without triggering any flare-ups.
The EWG-certified belly oil contains only seven ingredients including chamomile, lavender and marshmallow root, all of which are naturally derived. Shelby was a big fan of the minimal ingredient list, and couldn’t get over the fact that such a nourishing formula contained just seven elements. “I'm so happy to have found this oil and be confident in the safety of its ingredients,” she gushed. Shelby also loved applying the oil, saying that it feels “like a little spa moment.” As parents-to-be well know, it’s the small things sometimes that count as self-care, so having a luxurious belly oil can be a total mood-booster.
Not only that, but the packaging of The Oil got high marks from Shelby. She mentioned that she was “able to pump out the exact amount of oil I want, without making a mess,” thanks to the dispenser. Additionally, the design of the glass bottle was so “aesthetically pleasing” that she intentionally left it out on the bathroom counter.
After testing, Shelby told us that this belly oil was definitely worth the price point. “If I walked into a store like Ulta or Sephora and saw this product on the shelf, I would have guessed its price was higher than what it actually is,” she shared. Needless to say, if you’re after a belly oil that will soothe sore, dry patches while also offering the experience of a top-of-the-line skin care product, this is a perfect match!
Quantity: 4 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Apricot kernel oil, marshmallow root, lavender, chamomile, rose absolute
Our product tester says:
“I have eczema-prone skin, which unfortunately has left my bump covered in patches. This oil is gentle enough to provide moisture and calm my itchiness without aggravating my flare-ups.”
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Best stretch mark product for itchy skin
- Designed to calm irritation and inflammation
- USDA-certified organic ingredients
- Minimal ingredient list
- Essential oils may cause reactions on sensitive pregnant skin
The Motherlove Pregnant Belly Salve is here to deliver some salve-ation to those with irritated skin. Itchy skin is a common pregnancy symptom as your belly expands and hormone production increases. And as baby grows each week, you’ll probably welcome some healing help from the strain being put on the biggest organ in your body: your skin. Enter: Motherlove Pregnant Belly Salve, a true skin savior in every sense of the word, and our Best of The Bump winner for best stretch mark product for itchy skin.
Elizabeth, our product tester, was impressed by this salve’s effectiveness and awarded it a 10 out of 10 in this category. “My skin definitely felt smooth and I did notice that my belly was not as itchy, which was very nice,” she shared. This soothing quality can be attributed to the body butter’s minimal list of eight ingredients. The jar is filled with a USDA-certified organic beeswax-based balm infused with clean ingredients like organic herbs, essential oils and floral extracts. Each has been carefully chosen to moisturize and calm skin, even at its itchiest moments. One such ingredient is marshmallow root, which has been shown to soothe irritation and inflammation.
Additionally, Elizabeth was pleased with the fact that this belly salve was “easy to apply,” giving it a 10 out of 10 score for ease of use. And with a petite pot that’s “small enough to go onto a shelf” in the bathroom, you’ll always remember to put it on—something Elizabeth says was “easy to apply and rub in; very smooth and comforting.” Motherlove recommends using this body butter on your breasts and hips as well, making it a soothing option you can count on throughout pregnancy and into motherhood.
Quantity: 4 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Apricot oil, shea butter, beeswax, lavender
Our product tester says:
“I would recommend this product! I loved how smooth my stomach felt after, and the itching finally stopped.”
![](https://static.thebump.com/shared-web/logos/default-bump-avatar-off-white.png)
Best affordable stretch mark product
- Excellent value
- Quick-drying
- Hypoallergenic
- Convenient pump
- Stronger fragrance than some
- Lengthy ingredient list
Created by the same company as the well-loved stretch mark lotion, Palmer’s also offers a Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil that’s pregnancy-approved, and our Best of The Bump winner for best affordable stretch mark product. The lightweight belly oil is stacked with antioxidant-rich and deeply hydrating ingredients like vitamin E, argan oil and cocoa butter. Together, they work to soften skin, improve the appearance of stretch marks and stimulate cell rejuvenation. With all of those positives, you may expect this option to come at a high price point, especially since belly oils aren’t known for being affordable products—but you’d be pleasantly surprised that at just $0.09 per milliliter, it’s the most affordable oil on our list.
Juanita, our product tester, was thoroughly impressed with Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil and gave it a 10 out of 10 for effectiveness. The moisturizing and skin-smoothing perks were a fast favorite: “My skin felt good. It helped with the dry areas on my belly. It really keeps [skin] smooth for a long period of time.” According to dermatology experts we spoke to, that’s what a really great stretch mark product is supposed to do. The best belly oils for pregnancy condition the skin and keep it resilient throughout all the stretching via regular, daily use.
A big point in the Skin Therapy oil’s favor is that it’s quick-drying. Many oils are, well, oily and can take a while to soak in, causing potential staining or greasiness. To counteract this, the spray top prevents too much of the product from coming out at once. Juanita was a fan of this feature, rating it a 10 out of 10 for ease of use. Another aspect to consider is the belly oil’s scent, which is similar to Palmer’s pregnancy stretch mark cream. Juanita praised its “soothing, calm scent.” However, it’s worth noting that this may not be the best choice for moms-to-be who prefer fragrance-free formulas.
The bottom line: We’re obsessed with this multipurpose belly oil and bet you will be too! Even if stretch marks aren’t a major part of your pregnancy journey, the pump-style product is still a great way to give your frustratingly parched skin a refreshing boost of moisture.
Quantity: 5.1 fl. oz. | Notable ingredients: Canola oil, sesame oil, vitamin E, argan oil, cocoa butter
Our product tester says:
“It helped with the dry areas on my belly. It really keeps it smooth for a long period of time.”
![](https://static.thebump.com/shared-web/logos/default-bump-avatar-off-white.png)
Our community says:
It's easy to use and economical because you need a lot of it when pregnant. There isn’t anything I don’t like about it. – Crystal, expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
Yesterday, I was given Palmers Coca Butter Oil, which I've fallen in love with. Out of all the lotions, oils and whatnot I've used, my skin has never felt so amazingly soft. Also, the itching I'd had on my belly quite periodically has stopped since I started using it early yesterday afternoon! It was nice going to bed and not having to itch myself to sleep. – jhenry1204, The Bump forum member
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
While there are tons of options out there, topical stretch mark treatments can be divided into three main categories: belly butters, body oils and creams/lotions. Teng explains that most stretch mark creams work by moisturizing the skin to enhance elasticity. While some options may be better than others, the formula you choose is really a matter of personal preference. They can even be used together and layered on the skin to lock in moisture. Below, learn more about the different types of pregnancy stretch mark products:
- Belly cream/lotion for pregnancy. Stretch mark lotions are liquid creams specifically designed to reduce the appearance of scars. “Lotions are usually water-based, meaning they’re effective for smoothing skin and relieving inflammation, especially for those with skin conditions like eczema,” says Engelman.
- Belly butters for pregnancy. Body butter—also known as belly butter—is a thick, deeply moisturizing balm. This type of stretch mark product works well for dry or rough skin because it’s intensely hydrating. It’s often made from a blend of naturally derived shea, cocoa or mango butters. These ingredients are rich in vitamins and fatty acids, which form a protective layer over the skin and ease the itchy, tight feeling some women experience during pregnancy. One possible downside? Natural butters can feel a little greasy on the skin.
- Belly oil for pregnancy. Body oils that are designed specifically for pregnancy, sometimes known as belly oils, are another good option. Oils regulate the production of sebum (lipids that help moisturize your body), and the liquid formula sinks into the skin, locking in moisture and improving the skin-cell barrier, explains Engelman. An oil is also a lovely way to incorporate body massage into your daily routine, helping to boost circulation and collagen production. If you choose to layer stretch mark treatments, always apply body oils as the last step on top of the cream.
There are a lot of lotions and potions out there that make big promises. However, these are the hero ingredients to look for:
- Centella. Teng notes that “products with centella asiatica work to brighten skin, which also helps improve the appearance of stretch marks.” The AAD also points to research that says products containing this herb may help prevent stretch marks.
- Hyaluronic acid. This highly popular, water-loving molecule occurs naturally in the body and is considered safe for use during pregnancy. The AAD cites two large studies that found that applying hyaluronic acid to early stretch marks made them less noticeable.
- Rosehip oil. Teng states that products containing nourishing natural ingredients are usually a safe bet. “Rosehip oil is rich in antioxidants that target oxidative damage,” she explains.
- Vitamin C. You may already use vitamin C in your daily skin care routine, and the good news is—you can keep doing so! According to MacGregor, “topical vitamin C can also be used as it is safe, but there are no good studies to prove if it has any beneficial effect on preventing stretch marks.”
As you shop, be sure to check the ingredients list to see if a stretch mark cream includes irritants or harmful chemicals—especially if you have sensitive skin. Regardless of your skin type, here are a few ingredients that all expectant moms should steer clear of:
- Retinoids. Although present in many skin care products, retinoids aren’t safe for pregnant or breastfeeding moms. Engleman says it’s important to “avoid vitamin A derivatives like retinol while pregnant as they can harm the fetus.” You’ll want to seek out pregnancy-safe alternatives.
- Parabens. Engelman warns against using products with parabens that contain preservatives, as these chemicals have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive health issues.
- Phthalates. Phthalates should also be avoided during pregnancy, as they may disrupt fetal growth, have an adverse effect on reproductive health and increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.
- Artificial fragrance. Products with strong fragrances can irritate sensitive skin and also trigger nausea or vomiting in moms who experience scent aversions in pregnancy. With that in mind, you may want to opt for a stretch mark cream without perfumes or artificial fragrances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do pregnancy stretch mark creams really work?
This is a common question among pregnant moms looking to prevent or fade existing stretch marks. While the guidelines we consulted from the AAD offer ways to prevent stretch marks, they also note that once they occur, stretch marks are permanent. That said, a topical treatment may make them less noticeable and can also help reduce any itchiness. “Frequent skin massaging and emollients may improve skin elasticity and be beneficial,” says Teng. Moreover, a decent stretch mark cream will strengthen your body’s natural defenses by boosting circulation, building collagen and smoothing your skin. Diet and lifestyle also play a role in the development of stretch marks. “Staying hydrated is key,” explains Engelman, as drinking plenty of water enhances your skin’s natural elasticity.
While stretch mark creams are the best option for moms-to-be, post-pregnancy treatments like laser therapy and microdermabrasion can also help to minimize scarring, if needed. “Laser therapy helps stimulate collagen production to fill stretch marks with little downtime,” says Engelman. “Another option is microdermabrasion, a procedure that uses a tool with an abrasive surface to exfoliate the top layer of the skin.” If you’re unhappy with the stubborn appearance of stretch marks after baby, speak to your doctor or dermatologist about these more extensive options.
When should I start using a stretch mark cream?
Want to try to stave off stretch marks? Your best bet is to start using a pregnancy stretch mark cream in the first trimester. “Start as soon as possible! The earlier you get ahead of the damage, the better your chances are for minimal scarring,” says Engleman. Consistency is key, so for best results, all three experts recommended using stretch mark cream once or twice a day.
How should I apply stretch mark cream?
For application technique, Engelman says to massage products into your skin with gentle sweeping motions to circulate blood flow. Moist skin is better at absorbing emollients, so Teng recommends applying lotions and oils after bathing. If you plan to layer different types of products, consider how each formula will work together. If you take this approach, Teng says to “start with the lighter cream then follow with an oil-based product to help lock in moisture.”
Is it safe to use retinol-based stretch mark cream after birth?
As we mentioned previously, retinoids are not safe to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. However, retinol products can be a great post-pregnancy solution for non-nursing parents. “Topical retinoids (retinA) are the single best topical treatment in that scientific studies prove they can stimulate new collagen synthesis, thicken the skin and smooth it out,” says MacGregor. Of course, there’s no such thing as a “miracle cream” or a one-size-fits-all solution for stretch marks. If you’re concerned about introducing a new product to your skin care regime, always seek professional advice from a dermatologist or doctor.
About the writer:
Naomi Honova is a freelance writer and a parent to three young children. She’s written many articles on pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting for a wide variety of publications, including Expectful, Motherfigure, Today’s Parent, Kveller, Motherly and Truly Mama.
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Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Plus, More from The Bump:
Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the director of dermatologic surgery at the Metropolitan Hospital in New York City. She earned her medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina.
Jennifer MacGregor, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City. She also serves as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center. She earned her medical degree from the Georgetown University School of Medicine.
Joyce Teng, MD, is the director of pediatric dermatology at Stanford Medical School and is board-certified in dermatology as well as pediatric dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, Medicinal plants used in treatment of inflammatory skin diseases, June 2013
American Academy of Dermatology, Stretch Marks: Why They Appear and How to Get Rid of Them
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Skin Changes and Safety Profile of Topical Products During Pregnancy, February 2022
Endocrinology, Chronic Exposure to Low Levels of Parabens Increases Mammary Cancer Growth and Metastasis in Mice, March 2023
Human Fertility, Exposure to modern, widespread environmental endocrine disrupting chemicals and their effect on the reproductive potential of women: an overview of current epidemiological evidence, July 2017
Environmental Research, Early pregnancy phthalates and replacements in relation to fetal growth: The human placenta and phthalates study, July 2023
Science of the Total Environment, Maternal phthalate exposure during pregnancy and testis function of young adult sons, May 2023
National Institutes of Health, Preterm birth more likely with exposure to phthalates, July 2022
Environmental Pollution, Association between phthalate exposure and risk of spontaneous pregnancy loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis, December 2020
The Bump May 2023 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of 300 new and expectant moms from The Bump community, and asked which stretch mark creams they used and how effective they were.
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