7 of the best stretch mark oils and creams 2024
WHAT ARE PREGNANCY STRETCH MARKS?
As a pregnant body grows, stretch marks may form on the skin. They are thin lines that vary in colour depending on your skin colour and can appear on the belly, breasts or upper thighs.
what causes stretch marks?
As a pregnant body grows, the middle layer of skin (the dermis) tears in places. Pregnancy hormones can also make this more likely to happen. It is painless although there might be some itching and tightness.
can stretch marks be prevented?
Around 80% of pregnant women get stretch marks. Whether they appear or not is largely genetic as it depends on the elasticity of your skin. But there is an increased likelihood of stretch marks if you put on an above-average amount of weight in pregnancy.
Some swear by various stretch mark oils, creams and lotions. There is currently no firm evidence that any can completely prevent stretch marks but some may help to minimise their appearance. Regardless of their effectiveness, massaging your belly can be an enjoyable part of pregnancy.
when do stretch marks appear in pregnancy?
They most commonly appear in the third trimester, although some may get them in the second trimester.
Do stretch marks eventually fade?
Yes, they will gradually fade to a silver colour after the birth, although they will probably not completely disappear. Some have found that using stretch mark oils, creams or lotions can help them on their way.
THE BEST STRETCH MARK TREATMENTS
This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:
Consumer reviews
Best-seller lists
Recommendations from industry experts
Award-winning products
Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.
The list is updated annually. It was last updated on 5 January 2024.
If you buy through a link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.
1. Fantastic skin elastic by my expert midwife
An award-winning serum.
Soothes tight, dry or irritated skin while also reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
Developed by midwives.
Contains 99.9% naturally derived ingredients including sweet almond oil, beeswax, coconut oil, calendula flower extract, argan oil, vitamin E and lavender oil.
Cruelty-free.
Comes in a hygienic pump.
It’s also great for massage for relaxation and easing constipation.
Made in the UK.
2. Weleda stretch mark massage oil
Another award-winner.
This oil contains only natural ingredients, smells divine, and nourishes the skin.
The 100% organic ingredients include sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil, wheat germ oil and Arnica montana flower extract.
Vegan and cruelty-free.
3. Dr Organic Organic Vitamin E Scar & Stretch Mark Serum
This is a serum with vitamin E to moisturise the skin as well as other ingredients which have been tested on stretch marks and scars. These include aloe vera leaf juice, shea butter, cocoa seed butter, sweet almond oil, lotus leaf extract, beeswax, algae extract, amino acid complex, gotu kola extract and green tea leaf extract.
A minimum of 70% of the ingredients are organic.
Not tested on animals.
4. Bio-Oil
The UK’s No.1 selling scar and stretch mark treatment.
Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and can reduce the possibility of them forming.
Vitamins A and E and plant extracts are suspended in oil to improve the skin’s texture and elasticity.
The vitamin A is present at a very low level and so this oil is safe to use in pregnancy.
5. Mama Mio The Tummy Rub Oil
Increases skin elasticity and moisture while protecting against stretch marks.
Vegan and cruelty-free.
Has a fresh citrus scent and is full of natural plant-based ingredients.
It is also available in a tummy rub butter.
6. Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter
99% natural ingredients.
A rich, soothing butter that softens and smooths.
Contains vitamin E and shea, coconut and jojoba butter.
Fragrance-free.
Cruelty-free.
7. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion For Stretch Marks
An excellent value-for-money lotion.
Made from vitamin E, argan oil and cocoa and shea butter.
Suitable for sensitive skin.
Helps improve skin’s elasticity and reduces the appearance of stretch marks.
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