Fact Checked
By Jenn Sinrich
Stretch marks, whether from pregnancy or weight gain, are completely normal. Some people love the natural flaws on their body while it can be a source of insecurity for many.
However with the help of stretch mark creams, it’s possible to prevent and treat these marks. These specially formulated creams can improve the appearance of stretch marks, making them less visible.
So, whether you’re dealing with warrior lines from pregnancy or stretch marks from rapid growth, there’s no need to feel self-conscious. With these best stretch mark creams, you can take control of your skin’s appearance and feel more confident in your own skin.
But what actually are these stretch marks? Let’s read.
What are Stretch Marks?
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are a common skin condition that occur when the skin is stretched rapidly, such as during pregnancy, weight gain, or muscle growth. They appear as narrow, long lines on the skin and are often reddish or purple in color. Over time, the color of the stretch marks may fade to a white or silver color.
Stretch marks are caused by a tearing of the dermis, the middle layer of skin. This occurs when the skin is stretched rapidly, as the fibers that make up the dermis are unable to keep up with the stretching. This results in the formation of scar tissue, which is what causes the characteristic appearance of stretch marks.
There are several factors that can increase the likelihood of getting stretch marks, such as genetics, hormones, and rapid weight gain or loss. Stretch marks can also be more common during pregnancy and during periods of rapid growth during adolescence.
Stretch marks can be treated with topical creams and lotions, laser therapy, microneedling and in some cases they may fade over time. However, using the Best Stretch Mark Creams remains the most affordable & effective way to treat stretch marks. Before heading to the best stretch mark creams, read how to get the perfect one.
How to Choose Best Stretch Mark Creams?
When choosing a stretch mark cream, it’s important to consider the following:
Ingredients
Safety
Reviews
Brand reputation
Consult with a dermatologist
It is also important to note that stretch marks may be caused by multiple factors such as pregnancy, hormonal changes, and weight gain, so it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet along with using a cream.
Our Methodology: How We Choose Best Stretch Mark Creams?
How To Choose The Best Stretch Mark Creams?
We asked 3 renowned dermatologists about their preferences while prescribing a stretch mark cream to patients along with the reasons for their choices.
Further, we did a random survey to find what people actually prefer while looking for the best stretch mark creams.
Finally, we tested all the recommendations personally & concluded these best stretch mark creams depending upon the following factors:
Ingredients, Effectiveness, Texture and consistency, Scent, Overall value, Brand reputation, Packaging, Customer reviews, Side Effects & Cruelty-free or not.
To the conclusion, here are some of the best stretch mark creams on the market today:
Best Stretch Mark Creams 2024 Edition (Our Unbiased Top Picks)
Best Stretch Mark Cream – Overall
Skinception Intensive Stretch Mark Therapy
Let’s Get a Tour on Individual Stretch Mark Creams Featured Above
Best Stretch Mark Cream – Overall
Skinception Intensive Stretch Mark Therapy
Skinception Intensive Stretch Mark Therapy is all-natural product that is intended to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the skin. It is a topical stretch mark cream that is applied to the affected area, and it is said to use a combination of natural ingredients to improve the appearance of stretch marks.
It claims to reduce stretch marks by over 70%. Skinception Intensive Stretch Mark Therapy is overall our favorite pick as its best under the budget and also comes with 67-days money back guarantee.
Brand: Skinception | Key Ingredients: Green Bean Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Grapefruit & Orange Peel Oil | Count: 3.3 Fl. oz. | Count: All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Reduces the Appearance of Stretch Marks
- Stimulates Collagen and Elastin Production
- 67 Day Money Back Guarantee
Red Flag
- May Run Out of Stock
Bio-Oil is a skincare oil that is marketed to help improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, uneven skin tone, and aging skin. It is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that is easily absorbed by the skin. The product contains a unique blend of ingredients, including the key ingredient PurCellin Oil, which is said to help the other ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively. It also contains Vitamin A and E, and Calendula, Lavender, Rosemary and Chamomile oils. According to the manufacturer, the product is safe for use on both the face and body, and can be used by people of all skin types.
However, as with any skincare product, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have any specific skin concerns.
Brand: Bio-Oil | Key Ingredients: Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil | Size: 2.2 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Reduces Stretch Marks
- Diminishes Stubborn Scars
- Can Be Used on Face or Body
Red Flag
- A Bit Expensive
Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy is a topical cream intended to help improve the appearance of stretch marks. The cream is said to be formulated with a unique blend of ingredients, including Cepalin, a proprietary botanical extract, and hyaluronic acid, which is known for its ability to hydrate the skin.
The product is applied to the affected area twice daily, and the manufacturer claims that with consistent use, it can help to reduce the color, size, and overall appearance of stretch marks. It is also safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Brand: Mederma | Key Ingredients: Cepalin® Botanical Extract, Hyalluronic Acid, and Centella Asiatica Extract | Size: 5.29 Oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Improve Appearance of Stretch Marks
- Lock in Moisture to Help Cell Renewal
- Increases Collagen Formation
Red Flag
- Stretch Marks May Reappear
Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter is a product specifically formulated for pregnant women to help prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the belly, hips, and breasts. The product is a blend of natural ingredients, including cocoa butter, shea butter, and vitamin E, which are known to moisturize and nourish the skin.
The product has not been scientifically proven to be effective, but many users have reported positive results in reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
Brand: Burt’s Bees Mama | Key Ingredients: Sunflower Seed Oi, Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Cocoa Seed Butter | Size: 6.52 oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- 99% Natural Origin
- Keeps Your Belly Smooth
- Keep Your Growing Belly Soft, Smooth
Red Flag
- The Quantity is Low
Best Natural Stretch Mark Cream For Belly
Body Merry Stretch Marks & Scars Defense Cream
Body Merry Stretch Marks & Scars Defense Cream is a product that is intended to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars on the skin. It is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E, which are known to moisturize and nourish the skin, and it also includes centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid that are known to have properties that may help to improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Brand: Body Merry | Key Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter (Organic Cocoa), Plant Stem Cells | Size: 6.0 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Reduces Stretch Marks
- Hydrates Skin Intensely
- Contains Natural Ingredients
Red Flag
- The Consistency is Runny
Best Stretch Mark Moisturizing Lotion
Clarins Body Partner Stretch Mark Cream
Clarins body partner stretch mark cream is a product that is intended to help prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the skin. It is a topical cream that is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients such as shea butter, mango seed oil, and centella asiatica extract, which are known to moisturize and nourish the skin. The product is applied to the affected area twice daily and the manufacturer claims that with consistent use, it can help to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Brand: Clarins | Key Ingredients: Licorice-Derived Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Hazel Seed Oil, Phyto-Stretch Complex, Banana Fruit Extract | Size: 5.8 oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Safely Targets Stretch Marks
- Promotes Visible Skin Firmness
- Soothes and Relieves Feelings of Tightness
Red Flag
- It Has Fragrance
Botanic Tree Cocoa Butter Stretch Mark Cream Is a Product That Is Intended to Help Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks on the Skin. It Is a Topical Cream That Is Formulated with Cocoa Butter as the Main Ingredient, Which Is Known to Moisturize and Nourish the Skin. the Product Also Contains Other Natural Ingredients Such as Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Vitamin E. the Manufacturer Claims That with Consistent Use, It Can Help to Reduce the Color, Size, and Overall Appearance of Stretch Marks.
Brand: Botanic Tree | Key Ingredients: Shea Butter, Safflower Seed Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Vitamin E, Olive Oil, Moringa | Size: 4.0 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Prevents Stretch Marks
- Reduces Existing Scars
- Protects Your Belly
Red Flag
- May Have Runny Consistency
Best Stretch Mark Creams for Pregnancy
Mustela Maternity Stretch Marks Cream for Pregnancy
Mustela Maternity Stretch Marks Cream Is a Product Specifically Formulated for Pregnant Women to Help Prevent and Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks on the Belly, Hips, and Breasts. the Cream Is Said to Be Formulated with a Unique Blend of Ingredients, Including a Plant-Based Ingredient Called Elastoregulator, Which Is Said to Help Support the Skin’s Elasticity, and Avocado Perseose, a Patented Ingredient That Is Said to Help Protect and Hydrate the Skin. the Product Is Applied to the Affected Area Twice Daily and the Manufacturer Claims That with Consistent Use, It Can Help to Prevent and Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks.
Brand: Mustela | Key Ingredients: Avocado Peptides, Maracuja Polyphenols, Hamamelis Plant Extracts, Shea Butter | Size: 8.45 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Reduces Stretch Marks
- Improving Skin’s Elasticity
- Compatible with Breastfeeding
Red Flag
- It Has Fragrance
Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm Is a Product That Is Specifically Formulated for Pregnant Women to Help Prevent and Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks on the Belly, Hips, and Breasts. the Balm Is Said to Be Formulated with a Unique Blend of Natural Ingredients, Such as Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Which Are Known to Moisturize and Nourish the Skin. the Product Is Applied to the Affected Area Twice Daily, and the Manufacturer Claims That with Consistent Use, It Can Help to Prevent and Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks.
Brand: Summer Fridays | Key Ingredients: Natural Oil Blend, Vitamin E, Calendula Oil | Size: 5.0 Fl. oz | Skin Type : Dry, Combo, Normal Skin
Green Signal
- Encourage Skin Elasticity
- Support Collagen Formation
- Improves the Comfort of Stressed Skin
Red Flag
- Packaging Can Be Improved
Earth Mama Organics Belly Butter is a product designed to moisturize and soothe the skin on a pregnant woman’s belly. It is made with all-natural and organic ingredients, such as cocoa butter, shea butter, and olive oil, to nourish and hydrate the skin. It is also fragrance-free and safe for use during pregnancy.
Brand: Earth Mama | Key Ingredients: Jojoba Seed Oil, Aloe Leaf Juice, Rooibos Leaf Extract, Calendula Flower Extract, Shea Butter | Size: 8.0 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Softens Skin So Your Belly
- It Has Silkiest Consistency
- Encourage Skin’s Natural Elasticity
Red Flag
- It may Cause Itching
Best Cream For Stretch Marks & Scars
Buttah Cocoshea Revitalizing Cream
Buttah Cocoshea Revitalizing Cream Is a Moisturizing Cream for the Skin, It Is Formulated with Natural Ingredients Such as Cocoshea Butter, Which Is Derived from Coconut Oil, and Other Natural Oils and Butters to Hydrate and Nourish the Skin. the Manufacturer Claims That It Can Help to Improve the Appearance of Dry, Rough, or Uneven Skin and Provide a More Youthful and Radiant Look. Additionally, Some People May Use It to Help with the Appearance of Stretch Marks, but the Product Is Not Specifically Formulated for That Purpose.
Brand: Buttah | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Rosa Canina Fruit Extract | Size: 2.0 oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Locks Moisture into the Skin
- Reduces Scars, Pigmentation & Dark Spots
- Restores Your Complexion’s Healthy Glow
Red Flag
- Performed Poor For Stretch Marks
Best Stretch Mark Cream Cocoa Butter
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion Is a Moisturizing Lotion That Is Formulated with Cocoa Butter, a Natural Ingredient Known for Its Hydrating and Nourishing Properties. The Lotion Is Intended to Be Used as a Daily Moisturizer for the Body, and Can Be Used to Help Improve the Appearance of Dry, Rough, or Uneven Skin. Additionally, the Lotion Contains Vitamin E and Other Antioxidants Which Helps to Improve the Skin’s Texture and Tone.
Brand: Palmer’s | Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Lutein, Argan Oil, Coconut Oil | Size: 8.5 Fl. oz | Skin Type : All Skin Types
Green Signal
- Keeps Skin Soft and Supple
- Helps Visibly Improve Skin Elasticity
- Reduce the Appearance of Stretch Marks
Red Flag
- May Not Work For Pregnancy Marks
How Stretch Marks are Formed?
When the tissue under the skin is stretched, the normal production of collagen is disturbed and damaged, causing stretch marks (striae gavidarium) to surface. Stretch marks are also connected to the influx of glucocorticoids, which are hormones that elevate during puberty, excessive weight gain, obesity, and pregnancy.
According to Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, a board-certified OB/GYN and owns a private practice in Beverly Hills, California, about 90% of pregnant women develop stretch marks by their third trimester. High levels of glucocorticoids prevent elastin and collagen formation which makes a person more prone to stretch marks.
Stretch marks usually appear on the stomach, hips, thighs, and buttocks but can show up in other areas of the body as well.
How Stretch Marks are Formed?
Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?
There are some studies indicating that stretch marks can be prevented by using certain substances like essential oils and vitamin E.
A study in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that expectant women who used a cream with vitamin E had fewer marks than those who didn’t. Since stretch marks are due to rapid weight gain or loss, it can also be prevented by gaining or losing weight gradually.
Do Creams Help Remove Stretch Marks?
A handful of stretch mark creams and serums can help make the marks almost unnoticeable.
These products are the better alternative to cosmetic procedures that cost several thousand dollars. “diminishing stretch marks is a patient’s best bet”, said Barrington, Illinois dermatologist, Dr. Amy Derick.
It may not be realistic to remove every streak of stretch mark on your skin, but creams can help lighten the appearance.
Tretinoin (Retin-A) can greatly help fade stretch marks early on when lines are still pinkish or purplish. Many studies have shown that topical tretinoin can also reduce the size of stretch marks.
The best products should be able to give visible results in four to six weeks.
Stretch Marks Cream Before and after results
Stretch Marks Cream Before and after results
Ingredients to Look For in Stretch Mark Creams
You need to look for clinically proven ingredients that really work in reducing stretch marks.
A good stretch mark cream should also contain ingredients that protect skin during mechanical stretching and those that reduce inflammation, which makes stretch marks worse.
Some of the ingredients you should be looking for are:
Vitamin E
Dr. Cindy Pan, a Sydney-based medical practitioner and media personality with more than a decade of experience working in general practice in women’s health, recognizes the benefits of Vitamin E, especially in keeping healthy skin. “By massaging the skin regularly with Vitamin E, you’re moisturising and conditioning the skin, and over time this can help improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone”.
Vitamin A
Improves the skin cell growth.
Cocoa Butter
It contains natural antioxidants and has healing and softening properties.
Squalane
It softens the skin and effectively reduces skin imperfections. It also helps with the growth of new skin cells.
Hyaluronic acid
It is a potent moisturizer that makes skin firmer and elastic for rapid stretch mark reduction.
Squalene Oil
A strong regenerative property when used on skin protects skin surface and aids in the healing of scars.
DL – Penthenol
Also called, pro-vitamin B5. It improves the structure of the upper and lower of skin and reduces the appearance of existing stretch marks.
Regu-Stretch
A paraben-free solution that improves skin firmness and elasticity. It also moisturizes and smoothens skin, and helps repair scars. Regu-Stretch prevents formation of new stretch marks and reduces the appearance of existing stretch marks.
Stretch Mark Creams Benefits
- Repairs damaged tissue which causes the appearance of stretch marks
- Prevents stretch marks from developing by protecting skin during mechanical stretching
- Prevents tissue degradation by protecting the extracellular matrix structure of skin
- Stimulates the production of collagen to reduce the appearance of stretch marks fast
FAQ’s
Q.Do Stretch Mark Creams Actually Work?
A. There is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy of stretch mark creams. Some studies suggest that topical creams containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and centella asiatica may help improve the appearance of stretch marks, but results may vary.
Q. What Is the Right Time to Start Using a Stretch Mark Cream?
A. It is recommended to start using stretch mark cream during pregnancy or early in puberty when the skin is stretched rapidly. However, it may also be beneficial to use stretch mark cream if you have already developed stretch marks.
Q.Do Stretch Mark Creams Effectively Fades Old Stretch Marks?
A. There is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy of stretch mark creams in fading old stretch marks however some ingredients are proven to reduce the stubborn stretch marks over the period of time. Some people may see improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks with the use of topical creams, while others may not see significant results. The effectiveness of stretch mark creams can vary and depend on factors such as the age, depth, and color of the stretch marks, as well as individual skin type.
The Bottom Line – Best Stretch Mark Creams
Best Stretch Mark Creams 2024
There surely is a wide range of stretch mark creams available on the market.
And yes, that can be confusing, especially if you do not know what to look for. That’s why we make things easier for you.
We rigorously evaluated the best stretch mark creams being sold today based on their effectiveness, safety, and affordability.
Why Should You Trust Us?
Our experts have thoroughly investigated every detail of each product for a week or more and have determined that they pass safety checks. This ensures that the products we recommend are the best for addressing your skincare concerns.
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