Stretch marks are a common skin occurrence that can happen for a variety of reasons—pregnancy being one of the most common. However, regardless of the cause, many of us want to reduce their appearance. Stretch marks, or striae, happen when the skin stretches and the collagen and elastin fibers break, creating tears in the skin. These tears cause blood vessels to rupture, giving stretch marks their purplish-red color. Over time, the marks fade to a lighter color, but they can be stubborn. While it’s important to remember that stretch marks are harmless, if you’re looking to minimize their appearance, you’re not alone. Below are 10 of the best creams and oils for stretch marks, as recommended by dermatologists, beauty experts, and user reviews.
1. Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy – Best Overall
Price: $27 (on sale at Amazon)
Pros
- Highly rated for texture
- Works for both prevention and treatment
Cons
- Medicinal scent
Mederma’s Stretch Marks Therapy is frequently recommended by skincare professionals. It contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and centella asiatica to boost collagen, both of which help improve skin elasticity. While it won’t completely erase stretch marks, it can significantly reduce their appearance, particularly when used during or after pregnancy.
Mederma’s Stretch Marks Therapy is frequently recommended by skincare professionals. It contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and centella asiatica to boost col
Key Ingredients: Cepalin botanical extract, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica
Size: 5.29 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes
Customer Review:
“This is perfect for postpartum stretch marks! I’ve been using it for 2 weeks, and already my stretch marks are fading, and my skin tone is more even. The scent isn’t ideal, but the results make it worth it.” —niloufar
2. Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm – Best for Pregnancy
Price: $29
Pros
- Light, fresh scent
- Loved by many expecting moms
Cons
- Some issues with packaging
The Babymoon Belly Balm from Summer Fridays is a cult favorite for pregnant women. This balm, infused with vitamin E and nourishing oils like calendula and avocado, helps improve skin elasticity and prevents stretch marks. Many users praise how this product makes the skin feel soft and hydrated.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, calendula oil, avocado oil
Size: 5 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes
Customer Review:
“My favorite! I’m 28 weeks pregnant and have used this from early on. I’ve had no stretch marks so far, and my skin feels amazing.” —alliraeh
3. Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil – Best Oil for Stretch Marks
Price: $18 (on sale at Amazon)
Pros
- Quick absorption
- Vegan and non-greasy
Cons
- Scent can be polarizing
This iconic body oil is formulated with vitamins A and E, along with chamomile and lavender oils, to improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. It absorbs quickly and provides long-lasting hydration without feeling greasy. Its non-comedogenic formula makes it great for use on various skin types.
Key Ingredients: PurCellin oil, vitamin E
Size: 4.2 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes (contains retinyl palmitate at a level safe for pregnancy)
Customer Review:
“Amazing during pregnancy! It absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave my skin feeling sticky. I haven’t had any new stretch marks while using it, and my skin feels rejuvenated.” —DestinyFranco
4. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks
Price: $6.49
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Widely available
Cons
- Heavier texture
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter is known for its deep moisturizing properties, which can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks over time. This formula, which contains vitamin E, collagen, and elastin, is often recommended by dermatologists for its hydrating and nourishing benefits.
Key Ingredients: Cocoa butter, vitamin E, collagen, elastin
Size: 8.5 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes
Customer Review:
“This lotion worked wonders during my pregnancy! My skin felt hydrated, and I didn’t get a single stretch mark.” —SarahC
5. Earth Mama Belly Butter – Best Organic Option
Price: $19.99
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- Slightly thicker consistency
Formulated with organic shea butter and calendula oil, Earth Mama’s Belly Butter is a go-to for those who prefer all-natural skincare. It’s free from artificial fragrances, parabens, and other harmful chemicals, making it an excellent option for expecting moms or anyone looking to avoid harsh ingredients.
Key Ingredients: Organic shea butter, calendula oil, organic olive oil
Size: 5.5 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes
Customer Review:
“I loved using this during my pregnancy. It’s rich and creamy but absorbs well into the skin. My belly never felt dry, and I didn’t get stretch marks.” —TinaB
6. StriVectin SD Advanced Plus Intensive Moisturizing Concentrate
Price: $79
Pros
- Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of stretch marks
- Powerful anti-aging properties
Cons
- Higher price point
StriVectin is a well-known brand in the skincare world, and its Intensive Moisturizing Concentrate is highly recommended for treating stretch marks. The product contains NIA-114, a patented form of niacin that strengthens the skin’s barrier and improves elasticity, helping to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Key Ingredients: NIA-114, peptides, hyaluronic acid
Size: 4.5 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes
Customer Review:
“This product really works! My stretch marks have significantly faded, and my skin feels tighter and smoother.” —SophiaG
7. BioCorneum Advanced Scar Supervision Gel
Price: $45
Pros
- Excellent for scar healing
- Provides a smooth, silicone gel texture
Cons
- Slightly more expensive
This silicone-based gel is often recommended for healing scars, including stretch marks. Its formula helps flatten, soften, and fade the appearance of scars over time. It’s great for users with sensitive skin and can be used during pregnancy.
Key Ingredients: Silicone gel, vitamin E
Size: 1.4 oz
Pregnancy Safe: Yes
Customer Review:
“This gel has worked wonders on my old stretch marks, and it’s not greasy. I highly recommend it!” —MarissaL
Stretch marks are a common and natural part of many body changes, but if you’re looking to reduce their appearance, these 10 creams and oils can help. Remember that results vary from person to person, and consistency is key. Whether you prefer a balm, oil, or cream, there’s a product on this list that can work for you!
