In addition to using a stretch mark cream, eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet, drinking enough water, getting regular exercise, and gently massaging your belly every day may help prevent or reduce stretch marks during pregnancy. So we based our recommendations largely on empirical evidence from Mumsnetters about what had worked for them in pregnancy. When looking at treatments to fade rather than prevent stretch marks, it was easier to measure success and identify products that worked.

Mustela Maternite Stretch Marks Prevention Cream, 150 ml

Experts: We reached out to board certified dermatologists to get their opinion on the best stretch mark creams that they recommend for their pregnant patients, as well as what to look for in every category. Stretch marks and their long, narrow lines appear differently on a multitude of bodies. Depending on your skin color, stretch marks can range from red to purple to dark brown, and commonly crop up on the abdomen, hips, thighs, and/or breasts. They are especially common around puberty and during pregnancy as the skin expands and shrinks: In fact, a 2015 study in the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology found that more than half of all pregnant women will develop stretch marks during pregnancy. Stretch mark creams do not have any scientific evidence of working,” dermatologist Morgan Rabach, MD, says. But dermatologist Hadley King, MD, points to one small-scale 2017 study that found stretch mark creams containing centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid, as well as daily massages, might help make a “mild improvement” in the appearance of stretch marks. However, no clinical studies have proven ingredients like cocoa butter, shea butter, vitamin E, or almond oil can prevent or get rid of stretch marks.This blend of shea butter, coconut and essential oils means this nutrient-dense balm supports your skin on several fronts. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter. Used it for all of mine and I have no stretch marks. I used to slather it on when my tummy was itchy.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user DinosaurDiana)

Stretch Mark Creams, Oils, And Serums For Moms - Mustela USA Stretch Mark Creams, Oils, And Serums For Moms - Mustela USA

I'm gonna be honest: Even though stretch marks, cellulite, and butt acne are totally normal and natural, sometimes I'm not feeling mine. So if you came here looking to get rid of your stretch marks or find one of the best stretch mark creams to try, trust me when I say, I feel you. Though, I gotta hit you with the hard truth: Stretch mark-removing creams can’t actually get rid of your marks (only professional, in-office treatments can help). But! S tretch mark creams can keep your skin moisturized, soothed, and more elastic—three things you’ll need to help stretch marks heal.

Which oil is best for stretch marks?

As a refresher, stretch marks form when your skin stretches suddenly, causing a type of scar. Though they most commonly occur after weight fluctuations, puberty, and pregnancy, their frequency is actually determined by your genetics, which means stretch marks aren't totally in your control. However, because moisturizers can increase your skin's elasticity, the right cream can have benefits on your stretch marks. So to help break down the right formulas, I chatted with plastic surgeon John Kim, MD, and dermatologists Loretta Ciraldo, MD; Hadley King, MD; Morgan Rabach, MD; and Shereene Idriss, MD, about the best stretch mark creams, and personally tested and reviewed them on myself, below. I should say I still use Palmer’s twice a day religiously because it does help with the itching and the stretching feeling!” (Reviewed by Mumsnet user mariebaby3) We then collated this list of products with our own to come up with the best stretch mark creams and oils that we think offer something for every taste and budget About the author

Stretch Mark Creams for Pregnancy in 2023 - Healthline 10 Best Stretch Mark Creams for Pregnancy in 2023 - Healthline

Stretch mark creams won’t make old stretch marks completely go away. However, depending on the cream you use, it may somewhat reduce the appearance of the marks. What helps prevent stretch marks during pregnancy? No, once they have developed they are unlikely to go away with weight loss due to damage to collagen and elastin in the deeper layers of the skin. They will, however, lighten with time." Can you actually get rid of stretch marks? I’m finding Bio-Oil surprisingly good! Was sceptical but it has faded to white a lot of my marks - those from pregnancy (am 24 weeks) and from rapid weight changes before. I would recommend! And cheap too.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user DeusEx) How long is a piece of (red and angry-looking) string? Most women say their stretch marks faded within six months to a year of giving birth, but it can take longer. For some women, they may never fully fade. What is the best cream to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?I’m 39 weeks tomorrow and have used baby oil every day and do not have any (yet) TOUCH wood.” (Tip from Mumsnet user ThinkPink71) Our verdict Mama Mio over here. I had a very large bump during first pregnancy (10lb baby!) and not one stretch mark. Now on second pregnancy and still using it. Also helps with itching as the skin stretches.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Chocness) Our verdict Stretch marks are harmless to your health and often fade over time. Plus, plenty of over-the-counter creams and lotions made with skin-soothing ingredients can help ease the itchiness and dryness — and potentially even improve the appearance of stretch marks. As well as hydrating the skin and helping to boost elasticity, the Mustela stretch mark prevention cream is also designed to relieve the tight feeling pregnant women get across their bellies, making it a perfect accompaniment to other useful, bump-supporting items such as a good pregnancy support belt and the best maternity jeans.

Best Stretch Mark Cream for Pregnancy UK 2023 | Mumsnet The Best Stretch Mark Cream for Pregnancy UK 2023 | Mumsnet

I'm now 35 weeks and have been using the mama mio tummy rub butter every day since very early on. No stretch marks at all. I don't know if it's the cream or genetics but either way, it's a lovely way to pamper yourself and keep tummy moisturised so I'd say go for it. The lavender one is particularly nice."(Tried and tested by Mumsnet user ftm87) Your dermatologist can prescribe high-strength tretinoin (which works faster but with more irritation), or you can go with adapalene (pictured here), a gentler over-the-counter retinoid that’s equally effective. Just remember to start slow: I layered it under moisturizer two nights a week for two weeks, then worked my way up to every other night. Also, there are plenty of benefits to looking after your skin in pregnancy anyway, such as keeping your bump comfortable and reducing that itchy feeling as your skin stretches. What can I do to avoid stretch marks?

If you’re looking for an organic product rich in powerful natural ingredients, then The Organic Pharmacy Stretch Mark Oil might be the best stretch mark cream for you. Another all-natural ingredients product, this cream from Bloom and Blossom also treats wrinkles by boosting the skin's natural elasticity, winning all the points for versatility. The natural ingredients - including ylang ylang and horsetail leaf extract - mean it's a good option for sensitive skin, and reviewers report a nice smooth, non-greasy application made easy with the pump dispenser, so there's less risk of it getting all over your favourite maternity bra when applying. I am loving The Organic Pharmacy Stretch Mark Oil. I am 30 weeks pregnant now and enjoying applying this oil daily.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user CrankyCankles) Our verdict While there’s not a ton of research on the effectiveness of topical treatments, it’s still worth trying to prevent stretch marks if you want to, since it can be difficult to minimize them once they’re fully formed.