9 best stretch-mark creams for pregnancy, according to dermatologists & mums
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Stretch marks are a perfectly normal and shame-free part of pregnancy – but that doesn’t mean they’re always welcome. As such, frantically searching for the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy is a rite of passage for many mothers-to-be. “Put simply, striae – or stretch marks – are a type of scar that occurs when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly,” explains Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC.
This rapid stretching causes the collagen and elastin in the skin to rupture, and also stretches the oil glands beyond their capacity – which means they struggle to keep the area hydrated. The result? The forming of scars – often accompanied by a relentless itching sensation, due to increased dryness.
Initially, stretch marks may appear may appear red due to inflammation in the skin, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC. “Over a period of weeks to months, the redness improves, leaving behind skin-coloured, shiny-appearing marks.”
Although there’s no way to fully prevent or get rid of them, using creams, body butters, and body oils during and after your pregnancy can make a real difference. After all, the right formulas will not only help the skin continue to stretch comfortably by boosting elasticity and hydration, but also soften the texture and appearance of existing tiger stripes and scars – so that they blend in more seamlessly with the rest of your skin.
Glamour's best stretch mark creams for pregnancy, at a glance:
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How I tested the best stretch mark creams:
As is the case with any skincare product, ingredients matter — and stretch-mark creams are no different. Dr. Westbay says she recommends products rich in ingredients that support collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce inflammation. So, we first looked out for products which contain these ingredients:
- Centella asiatica, a plant extract that’s been shown to increase collagen production and improve the appearance of stretch marks
- Hyaluronic acid, which helps the skin retain moisture. That moisture can, in turn, improve skin elasticity and potentially reduce the visibility of stretch marks.
- Peptides, which are short chains of amino acids that can stimulate collagen and elastin production.
- Antioxidants, like vitamin E, because they help protect collagen and elastin from damage, and may also improve skin elasticity.
While we were reading product labels, we noted that peeping the word “organic” on a stretch-mark cream wouldn't necessarily make it more effective for treating the issue. In fact, organic options may even be less effective, given they typically only feature natural ingredients. “Organic stretch-mark creams are typically free from synthetic chemicals,” says Dr. Westbay. “They are often made with natural ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and oils, which can be beneficial for maintaining skin hydration and elasticity during pregnancy or after weight fluctuations but are not likely to be as effective [as formulations that include certain synthetic ingredients].” For example, the hydrating ingredient hyaluronic acid is typically considered to be synthetic in skin care because, though the body naturally produces it, it’s synthesised through chemical processes to be added to topical products.
Once we'd whittled down our edit based on our research, we started testing. Pregnant members of the Glamour tested creams from early in their pregnancy (trimester one) to up to nine months. We noted scent, how the stretch-mark cream felt on the skin (greasy? minus points), and how effective we felt each was.
We used them for between three and six months each, remembering it is important to stay realistic about what a stretch-mark cream can accomplish. As Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, reminds us, “No cream is truly necessary or guaranteed to prevent or erase stretch marks,” she says. “In-office treatments like micro-needling and lasers tend to offer more significant improvement over the course of multiple treatments.”
1. Best Overall: Bio-Oil Natural Skincare Oil for Stretch Marks & Scars
- What we love: Proven efficacy; 100% natural ingredients; Seriously lightweight.
- What could improve: Some may find it a little greasy.
Of all the products recommended to us, Bio-Oil was the top pick. It’s derm-approved by Dr. Zeichner, Dr. King, and board-certified dermatologist Rachel Westbay, MD. “It’s well-tolerated and improves hydration and skin suppleness,” Dr. Westbay says.
Many pregnant women use the original formulation, but some are hesitant because it includes retinyl palmitate, a gentle form of retinol. While Dr. King says the ingredients in the original formulation are likely mild enough that they wouldn’t be problematic during pregnancy, she recommends erring on the side of caution by opting instead for the brand’s newer, 100% natural version of the oil throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. In doing so, you won’t be missing out on the original body oil’s benefits.
The moisturising benefits come from the product’s symphony of plant-based oils, including soybean oil, sunflower seed oil, jojoba seed oil, pomegranate seed oil, and chia seed oil, among others. The natural formulation also includes safflower oil, which was not included in the original formulation but has been shown to reduce the appearance of scars. “These oils are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants to support and protect the skin and keep it soft and supple so it can stretch more easily,” says Dr. King. Hydration benefits can be observed immediately after application, says Dr. Zeichner, but it’s important to continue using the product twice daily for several weeks to experience any of the skin-strengthening effects.
What our testers say: “I love that this oil is made with all-natural ingredients. It delivers deep hydration, absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, and leaves my skin soft and smooth. Plus, the scent is absolutely amazing,” says Leilani McQuay, Glamour commerce producer who is currently eight months pregnant.
Bio-Oil has also received glowing reviews from more than one mama. “I was first introduced to Bio-Oil during my twin pregnancy, and I haven’t stopped using it since,” says Glamour reviewer Andrea Pion Pierre, a soon-to-be mother-of-three. “Its ultra-nourishing formula melts into your skin, keeping it hydrated between applications. While it has a lot of uses [Pierre also relies on it to treat eczema], it’s especially great for both stretch marks and scars. “If you’re looking for a drugstore oil, Bio-Oil is truly the best bang for your buck,” she says.
2. Best for Itchy Skin: Burt’s Bees Mama Belly Butter
- What we love: Easy to grab at any drugstore; 99% natural; Provides itch relief.
- What could improve: Unscented “scent” may not be for everyone and may give this butter a less luxurious feel than other butters
Multiple dermatologists—including Dr. King and board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD—recommend this product from beloved drugstore brand Burt’s Bees. It’s made from 99% naturally derived ingredients. “Burt’s Bees Mama Belly Butter is a great option that contains shea butter, coconut oil, cocoa butter, and jojoba butter to hydrate and moisturize the skin, as well as sweet almond oil and sunflower seed oil, which are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants to support and protect the skin,” says Dr. King. “These ingredients keep the skin soft and supple so it can stretch more easily.” The product is also free of the types of ingredients you don’t want to see, during pregnancy or otherwise, including parabens, phthalates, and petrolatum.
This budget-friendly butter has a rich and creamy texture but is still easily absorbed into the skin. As such, a little goes a long way, which means the tub should last throughout your pregnancy and even beyond. It’s fragrance-free, too, although not all users love its non-smell smell.
One of the most buzzed-about benefits of this product is its ability to calm the itching that often accompanies stretching skin. This effect is likely due to its soothing blend of natural butters and oils. Ultimately, says Dr. Gohara, “it hydrates the skin to give it a glow, minimizing the appearance of stretch marks.”
What our testers say: “This belly butter is rich, thick, and deeply hydrating—a little goes a long way, making it a great value. While I personally wasn’t a fan of the subtle, non-scent scent and usually prefer oils over body butters, it definitely kept my belly feeling moisturised.” says McQuay.
3. Best for Firming and Improving Elasticity: StriVectin SD Advanced PLUS Intensive Moisturizer
- What we love: Underwent clinical trials to back up its efficacy; Packed with peptides for boosting elasticity; Absorbs quickly.
- What could improve: It’s expensive compared to other options
“Backed by independent clinical studies, this product helps strengthen the skin barrier and improve skin texture,” says Dr. Westbay. “Niacinamide may play a role in pigment modulation and barrier repair.” Your skin barrier is important to nourish because, as the outermost layer of the skin, it helps you retain moisture and keep out external irritants. This protective quality also stands to help with stretch-mark prevention, thanks to its moisture-locking capabilities.
With its powerful peptide complex, the hardworking formula boosts collagen and elastin production – leaving you with visibly more supple skin and improvement in the appearance and texture of your stretch marks in just four short weeks.
What our testers say: “I’ve been using this every morning for about a month now—currently 31 weeks pregnant and still no stretch marks. It’s super moisturising, absorbs well, and doesn’t leave a greasy feel. It has a light peppermint scent, which I actually don’t mind. I’ve also started applying it to my face where I have some acne scars and texture, and I’m excited to see how it helps over time," says McQuay.
4. Best for Skin Barrier Support: Clarins Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert Cream
- What we love: Lightweight yet nourishes the skin barrier; Not sticky or greasy; Supports elasticity and firmness.
- What could improve: Very pricey; Lots of reviewers have had issues with the pump.
This cream is primarily powered by the brand's innovative Phyto Stretch Complex – an botanical blend of Centella Asiatica and Organic Green Banana Extract, which work together to strengthen the collagen and elastin fibres, and visibly reduce stretch mark colour, length, width and depth. “An antioxidant-rich herb long used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, studies have shown that centella asiatica extract is an effective wound-healing agent that has also been documented to be effective in the treatment of stretch marks,” Dr. King adds.
A great pick for anyone looking to seriously support their skin barrier, the formula also boasts strengthening and lipid-replenishing squalane, and soothing actives like glycyrrhetinic acid that help reduce inflammation.
5. Best Balm: Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm
- What we love: Not too greasy; Doesn't transfer onto clothes; Promotes barrier repair.
- What could improve: Considerably more pricey than your typical balm.
With its completely water-free formula, this velvety balm melts from a cream into a buttery balm the second it touches your skin – providing deep and long-lasting hydration and nourishment to stressed and overly stretched-out skin.
Working in tandem, avocado oil deeply moisturises and boosts the skin's elasticity, while sunflower seed oil hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier. Meanwhile, calendula oil calms inflammation, and soothes the dreaded stretch mark itch, and the antioxidant vitamin E boosts suppleness, and aids the healing process. Best of all, the formula soaks in without leaving behind any telltale greasy residue – so you don't have to worry about it ruining your favourite pair of maternity pyjamas.
6. Best for Pampering: Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream
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- What we love: Seriously rich and velvety texture; Smells genuinely amazing; Packed with effective retinol alternative ingredients.
- What could improve: According to the brand, the product hasn’t been specifically tested for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. While the ingredients appear to be safe, it’s best to chat with your provider before using it if you are expecting or nursing.
One of the best strategies for stretch-mark prevention and treatment is to prioritise moisture and hydration. For folks with drier skin especially, Dr. Zeichner likes this collagen cream from Sol De Janeiro thanks to its formula that's rich in seriously nourishing and hydrating oils. “It contains a variety of plant-based oils, including cacay oil, which is known to be high in vitamin A levels; vegan collagen to hydrate and protect the outer skin layer; and plant-based squalane to soften and hydrate the skin,” he says.
Furthermore, while retinoids are not advised for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, Dr. Zeichner notes that in independent clinical trials, Elastic-Cream was found to help firm and boost collagen, two benefits beloved by retinol fans. And because the formulation uses plant-based, vegan alternatives to harsher active ingredients, there’s no need to worry about common side effects, like increased sun sensitivity (though you should always lather up the SPF anyway).
7. Best Luxe Option: MUTHA Body Butter
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- What we love: Luxurious whipped texture; Clean, efficacious ingredients; Chic packaging; Nourishes dry skin.
- What could improve: Price point is higher than other treatments
A true treat for any pregnant person, this ultra-luxe whipped body butter from MUTHA is seriously nourishing and moisturising on dry and overly-stretched skin – leaving it soft, supple, and oh-so hydrated.
Exclusively made from ingredients that occur in nature, the product not only hydrates and moisturises the skin but also nourishes and strengthens it, thanks to antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins A and E, says Dr. Zeichner. Board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, is also a fan of this butter, noting that the “formula is very rich thanks to a blend of plant butters and oils like shea, cocoa, and mango butter and coconut, rose hip, and avocado oils. It melts on contact with your skin and feels very luxurious.”
It’s also hypoallergenic, which means it won’t irritate sensitive skin and can be used all over your body during and after pregnancy. To that end, a little goes a long way; one tub should last throughout your entire pregnancy, if not beyond.
8. Best for Postpartum and Scarring: My Expert Midwife Stretch Mark Serum
- What we love: Made and endorsed by midwives and dermatologists; Works well when massaged into c-section scars; 99% natural ingredients.
- What could improve: Genuinely nothing of note.
Developed by midwives, this award-winning serum is safe for use during pregnancy and postpartum – and can even be gently massaged into healed c-section scars to help improve the texture and appearance. Totally natural, use it on your belly, boobs, and thighs – and basically anywhere else on your body that's feeling the effects of the stretch.
Boasting a 99% natural formula, it's packed with powerful ingredients – like deeply hydrating and healing vitamin E, beeswax to lock in moisture and shield against irritants, and a botanical blend of grapefruit, geranium, calendula, and lavender. Alongside softening and soothing tight and itchy skin, and providing the serum with it's spa-like scent, these plant-based oils can also even help ease constipation and encourage restful sleep when massaged into your bump.
9. Best Budget-Friendly: Palmer's® Cocoa Butter Formula® Massage Lotion For Stretch Marks
- What we love: Budget-friendly price; Time-tested; Derm-and customer-approved.
- What could improve: Some users have had issues with the pump.
Few stages of life require as much spending as when you’re preparing for a baby, so budget-friendly finds are always welcome during this time. Fortunately, this wallet-friendly stretch-mark cream also comes dermatologist recommended. “Palmer’s Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks is a great option that helps to visibly improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks,” says Dr. King.
The non-greasy formulation contains cocoa butter, shea butter, and coconut oil to hydrate and moisturise the skin, she says, adding that its argan, coconut, and almond oils—which are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants—support and protect the skin. “These ingredients keep the skin soft and supple so it can stretch more easily,” says Dr. King. Palmer’s lotion also includes centella asiatica, an herb Dr. King likes for its wound-healing, moisturising, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also doesn’t contain harmful additives such as parabens and phthalates. And it’s hypoallergenic, she adds, which means it’s a good option for all skin types.
Frequently asked questions:
Does everyone get stretch marks when pregnant?
As is true of other pregnancy phenomena like morning sickness, not everyone is equally affected. “Hormones and genetics seem to make some people more likely to develop stretch marks than others,” says Dr. King. With that said, if you do develop stretch marks during pregnancy, you’re far from alone; it’s estimated that between 55% to 90% of pregnant women experience them.
Is it possible to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy?
Like all scars, stretch marks are permanent, and unfortunately there is no foolproof way to prevent them. “But massaging products into the skin may help reduce the risk of stretch-mark formation,” says Dr. King. “And while topical products do not have deep or strong enough effects to remodel ruptured collagen and elastin, they may offer mild improvement in appearance.” And regardless of the desired outcome, Dr. Shirazi says it’s important to hydrate and nourish skin as it undergoes such drastic changes in pregnancy.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that the best way to treat stretch marks is to prevent them, says Dr. Zeichner, which means it’s never too early in your pregnancy to start using a stretch-mark cream. “I recommend applying products to the belly before you see any stretch marks to keep the skin hydrated and in as good shape as possible,” he says. “This is especially important if you have a family history of stretch marks. If your mom got them during pregnancy, you may be more likely to develop them yourself.” Studies also show, says Dr. King, that taking the time to massage the product into the skin may make it more effective.
When should I start applying stretch-mark cream during pregnancy?
Since, as Dr. Zeichner points out, your best bet for treating stretch marks during pregnancy is to try to prevent them, it’s important to start applying stretch-mark cream before your skin begins to stretch. “Timing is critical,” agrees Dr. Westbay. “The best time to use stretch-mark creams is during periods of rapid body changes, like pregnancy, adolescent growth spurts, or muscle gain—ideally before marks appear or when they’re still red or purple. This early phase, known as striae rubra, is when vascularity is high and collagen disruption is still modifiable.”
After this point, Dr. Westbay says topical interventions, like creams and balms, become less effective. To achieve noticeable improvements to existing stretch marks, she suggests in-office procedures like microneedling, fractional lasers, or radiofrequency.
How long until you see results?
It’s a little tricky to say, since, as Dr. Westbay notes, “topicals cannot erase stretch marks once established.” But, she adds, there is some evidence to support that certain ingredients may slightly improve the appearance of stretch marks, particularly if you start treatment as early as possible. “The key is setting realistic expectations,” she says. “Creams may improve hydration, elasticity, and pigmentation, but they won’t reverse the structural dermal changes.”
Essentially, the results you’re most likely to see from stretch-mark creams are that would-be scars don’t show up at all—or with less severity than if you didn’t use a product. For treating stretch marks that have already formed, the professionals suggest inquiring about in-office dermatological treatments.
Meet the experts
Here are the derms who offered insights to inform our list of the best stretch-mark creams for pregnancy.
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut
- Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC
- Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC
- Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in La Jolla, California
- Rachel Westbay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC
- Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Toronto
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC
