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Top 8 Best Oils for Stretch Marks

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Last updated June 8, 2024

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Stretch marks are a common condition that is present among both the male and female population. They can occur due to many factors like pregnancy, weight gain, and growth. Even though everyone gets stretch marks, many of us are embarrassed about them and look for ways to minimize them. One common remedy is the application of oils that are expected to be perfect for stretch marks.

The good oil for stretch marks should be able to penetrate through the skin and leave it soft, elastic, and should also help to fade out stretch marks. Therefore, it is vital to select an oil depending on its composition, as some oils might be more beneficial than others. It is also important to assess the thickness of the oil and how it feels when the skin touches it.

Based on our research and experience in using different types of oils for stretch marks, here are the best ones to consider. Below, we are going to present the advantages of each oil and why it is better than its counterparts.

Top 3 Best Oils for Stretch Marks

  1. Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil
  2. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion
  3. Mederma Quick Dry Oil

The following oils have been sourced and chosen due to their quality, performance, and customer satisfaction. For both new and old stretch marks, these oils can assist in attaining the best skin appearance that you desire. Well then, here are our recommendations for the best oils for stretch marks.

Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil

The Editor's Choice
Transform your skin with Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil. It makes our skin look and feel silky and soft, non-sticky, and easily absorbed into the skin. Effective for treating scars and stretch marks but the efficacy differs from one individual to another. It is advisable to wait—wear confidently with the likelihood of glow skin.

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Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil is a multipurpose body oil which is recommended to minimizes the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and skin discoloration.

Pros

  • Dermatologist recommended and clinically proven to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and other marks
  • Packed with natural oils like Vitamin E, Chamomile, and Lavender to hydrate and soothe skin
  • Non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula that won't clog pores

Cons

  • Some users may not like the rose scent
  • May not work for everyone
  • Can take some time to see noticeable results

We appreciate that it has a non-greasy formula that quickly gets absorbed into the skin allowing us to apply it in the morning before putting our clothes on.

It should however be noted that Bio-Oil has been clinically tested for use on scars and stretch marks and though it is effective, it may not be effective for all. It also can require some time to observe the satisfactory outcome so it is necessary to use it constantly.

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For a lotion that does not feel greasy but can minimize stretch marks, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion is recommendable.

Pros

  • Ideal for all over body use to improve skin elasticity, texture, and tone
  • Features natural ingredients like Pure Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Natural Oils, Collagen, Elastin, and Lutein that keep skin moisturized and supple for 48 hours
  • Widely recommended for stretch marks during and after pregnancy or weight fluctuation

Cons

  • Some users may not like the faint floral fragrance added to the lotion
  • Does not prevent all stretch marks
  • May not work as well for severe stretch marks

The lotion is not oily and is rapidly absorbed into the skin, thus making it suitable to be applied on any part of the body. The natural ingredients such as Pure Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Natural Oils, Collagen, Elastin, and Lutein ensure skin remains moisturized and stretchy for up to 48 hours. Though it cannot avoid all stretch marks, it is well advised for stretch marks in pregnancy or periods of weight change.

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We found the Mederma Quick Dry Oil to be very effective in fading stretch marks and scars which makes it our top recommendation. This oil is rapidly absorbed into the skin and contains special plant extracts that work on the skin to minimize the look of scars and stretch marks.

Pros

  • The natural botanical extracts, including Cepalin, Sweet Almond oil, Rose Hip oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, Chamomile and Ginger extracts, moisturize and nourish the skin, helping to improve its appearance.
  • The oil is fast-absorbing, paraben-free, fragrance-free, dye-free, and mineral oil-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
  • Mederma is the #1 recommended brand of scar treatments among doctors, pharmacists, pediatricians, dermatologists, and plastic surgeons.

Cons

  • Some users may find the oil to be too greasy.
  • The oil may not work as quickly for some users, and it may take several weeks to see results.
  • The bottle may be smaller than expected, and users may need to purchase multiple bottles for larger areas of the body.

Over time, we observed that our stretch marks and scars became less pronounced and almost faded from sight. The oil does not create the nasty slick feeling making it easy to incorporate into our daily lives. For those who prefer organic skincare products free from paraben, we suggest using Mederma Quick Dry Oil to enhance the skin tone.

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For a plant-based oil that can help to minimize the visibility of stretch marks, Weleda Stretch Mark Pregnancy Massage Oil is one of the best options available.

Pros

  • The blend of wheat germ, almond, and jojoba oils reduces the appearance of stretch marks while nourishing the skin with rich moisture.
  • Regular massage with this oil diminishes the visible appearance of stretch marks and increases skin elasticity and smoothness.
  • The precious, soothing oils of rose, neroli, myrrh, and frankincense unfold a complex perfume.

Cons

  • The smell may not be pleasant to everyone.
  • The oil may leave a greasy residue.
  • It may take some time to see noticeable results.

Weleda Stretch Mark Pregnancy Massage Oil is a natural blend in resonance with the body during a beautiful period. The oil contains vitamin E which goes a long way in nourishing the skin. The components present in this oil like sweet almond oil, wheat germ oil containing vitamin E and arnica extract helps in decreasing stretch marks and make skin soft.

Daily rubbing of this plant in oil form reduces the formation of stretch marks and enhances skin firmness and texture. Rose, neroli, myrrh, frankincense, and other valuable oils create a bouquet that enlightens your soul and frees your thoughts from hustle.

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For treating stretch marks pregnant women should consider using Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Oil.

Pros

  • Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Oil is a lightweight yet nourishing body oil that hydrates skin with Cocoa Butter, Moringa Oil and Baobab Oil.
  • Collagen and Elastin, Moringa and Baobab Oils help improve skin elasticity while Lecithin helps soothe dry, itchy skin associated with pregnancy.
  • The fragrance-free formula provides a 48-hour moisture boost, and it's the perfect size for on-the-go hydration.

Cons

  • Some users may find the oil to be too greasy.
  • The pump may not work well, making it difficult to dispense the oil.
  • Some users may not like the smell of the product.

Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Oil is highly recommended for use by pregnant women with stretch marks in order to keep their skins moisturized. The lotion is very light and does not take long before it gets absorbed into the skin and it is not oily at all. It is also rich in natural products such as Cocoa Butter, Moringa Oil, and Baobab Oil that assist in enhancing skin stretch marks flexibility. Furthermore, this product is not fragranced which is suitable for use by pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Another aspect of using Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Oil is that it moisturizes the skin for 48 hours, so one does not have to constantly reapply the product. This oil comes in a pump bottle which is quite convenient to use though some consumers may notice that the pump does not work properly making it hard to squeeze the oil out.

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If you are interested in an all-natural skincare oil that can help in diminishing the look of scars, stretch marks, and skin discoloration, try Bio-Oil Skincare Oil.

Pros

  • Dermatologist recommended and clinically proven for scars, stretch marks, uneven skin tone and more
  • Packed with powerful plant oils and skin-loving ingredients, like rosehip oil, lavender oil, chamomile oil, and patchouli oil
  • Safe for all skin types, this oil contains no added fragrance, dyes, additives or chemicals

Cons

  • Some may find the price point a bit high compared to other oils on the market
  • The oil may take a bit longer to absorb into the skin compared to other oils
  • The packaging could be improved to make it easier to dispense the oil

The oil is not greasy and comes with a mild fragrance that is not overpowering. We like that it is all natural and can be used for any skin type.

What should however be noted is the fact that there is a somewhat slower absorption of the oil into the skin as compared to some other oils; however, the effects of the oil were worth waiting for in our opinion. The packaging could be slightly altered to make it easier to dispense the oil but all in all, Bio-Oil Skincare Oil is definitely one product to try for scars, stretch marks and skin discoloration.

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For those who are in search for a natural and efficient product that can help minimize the visibility of scars and stretch marks, then RejuveNaturals Vitamin E Oil Serum deserves to be on top of your list.

Pros

  • The natural Vitamin E oil as the first ingredient combined with nutrient-rich botanicals like Vitamin A, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera helps repair skin damage and improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and sun spots.
  • The serum is non-greasy, non-comedogenic, and a great acne scar treatment for the face and body.
  • It is non-GMO, made in the USA, free of mineral oil, additives, allergens, and chemicals, and virtually odorless and colorless.

Cons

  • The bottle size is small.
  • The serum is not as thin as typical water-based serums, but not nearly as thick or sticky as other pure Vitamin E oils.
  • Some users may not see results as fast as others.

The skin looks much better—it glows, seems hydrated, and becomes smoother; the visibility of scars and stretch marks is diminished. The serum is non-greasy, quickly gets absorbed into the skin and does not feel tacky or wet after application. We also like that the product is all natural, non-GMO, and animal testing free.

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If you’re in the market for an all-purpose oil that can effectively minimize the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and similar blemishes, Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil comes highly recommended by us. It is non-greasy and quickly gets absorbed into the skin without causing any blockage of the pores. It is also dermatologist-recommended and clinically developed for the treatment of scars, stretch marks, skin discoloration, etc.

Pros

  • Helps improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks
  • Packed with natural oils to maintain healthy looking skin
  • Locks in essential hydration without clogging pores

Cons

  • Takes time to see results
  • Strong scent that may not be for everyone
  • Can be expensive compared to other oils

Natural oils such as Vitamin E, chamomile, and lavender oil help to calm the skin and retain moisture. We also love that it is non-irritating to all skin types, colors, and intricate, and can be applied on the face and the body.

The only drawback is that the process may be time-consuming, and that is why it is effective to be patient. Further, it has a very strong smell that may not be preferred by some users. Lastly, it is relatively costly than other oils in the market due to the unique ingredients used in its production.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best oil for stretch marks, there are certain characteristics that one should pay attention to. We recommend looking for products that meet the following criteria:

Ingredients

The ingredients in the oil should be natural and should not contain any unhealthy substances. Search for products with Vitamin E, jojoba oil and lavender oil which are known to minimize stretch marks.

Absorption

It should easily be absorbed by the skin without leaving behind any oily layer. This will ensure that the oil can reach the deeper layers of the skin and serve its purpose of moisturizing the affected skin.

Effectiveness

Opt for a cream that has been recommended by dermatologists and is effective against stretch marks. Focus on lotions that have undergone trials with actual users and have yielded better results on stretch marks.

Price

The cost of the oil should also be affordable and within your pocket. Remember that the price does not always define the quality, and a cheaper oil can be as good as a more expensive one.

Packaging

The packaging of the oil must be convenient to use and easily portable. The chosen products should preferably contain a pump or spray nozzle to ease the application process

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can argan oil help reduce the appearance of stretch marks?

Argan oil is very helpful in skin moisturizing due to its high content of vitamin E that assist in increasing skin tautness and minimizing stretch marks. Nevertheless, further studies are necessary to understand the efficiency of this lotion for treating stretch marks.

2. Is jojoba oil effective in reducing stretch marks?

Jojoba oil is an excellent moisturizer which aids skin flexibility and lessens the skin’s oily appearance. Though it is not a guarantee that it will erase stretch marks entirely, it can definitely fade them out progressively with regular application.

3. Does Bio Oil really work for stretch marks?

Bio Oil is a lotion that has been widely promoted for use in removing stretch marks, scars, and skin discoloration. Other users have testified to its efficacy, but there is not much scientific evidence to back its use.

4. What are the benefits of using almond oil for stretch marks?

Almond oil contains vitamin E and other antioxidants which can assist in making skin less stretchy and reduce formation of stretch marks. It is also an emollient that, besides softening the skin, can also assist in preventing further damage to the skin in the area.

5. Are there any natural oils that can help with stretch marks?

Yes, there exist natural oils that can be used to minimize stretch marks and such include argon, jojoba, almond, coconut and rosehip oils. Each of the oils possesses different attributes and therefore selecting the right one suitable for your skin is crucial.

6. What is the most effective way to reduce the appearance of stretch marks?

Though it is impossible to completely eliminate the chances of getting stretch marks, it is possible to minimize them using natural oils, exercising regularly and taking proper meals. One has to wait for some time and it should religiously follow some regimen to see some changes.

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Jeff brings to Buoy over 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medi...
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