The best stretch mark creams to use in pregnancy

Pregnant woman applying stretch mark cream to bump

by Georgina Terry |
Updated on

For many women, stretch marks are part and parcel of being pregnant. As your body gets ready for the new arrival, stretch marks can appear all over your body, from your bump to your boobs and beyond. The best stretch mark creams will help their appearance. Take a look at our helpful guide on what causes stretch marks.

Some mums call them their 'Tiger Stripes' and wear them proudly - they are, after all, a permanent visible reminder of how amazing your body is and what an extraordinary journey it has been through to bring you your baby. Check out our gallery of real-life mum tums and see how other mums embrace their new bodies here.

However, some mums feel very self-consicous about them, and for you, we want to provide a list of creams that'll look after your stretch marks during and after your pregnancy.

Removing stretch marks can be difficult as they’re basically scar tissue, but using a good stretch mark cream during pregnancy could help prevent from appearing and reduce their appearance if they do. At the very least they will keep your precious skin supple, smoothe, and moisturised as your bump grows.

Is it safe to use stretch mark creams during pregnancy?

If you can buy it off the shelf, yes. Although stretch marks are a unisex problem and can occur due to sudden growth spurts or fluctuating weight, most manufacturers are thinking of pregnant women when they create these creams.

If you have any doubts whatsoever, consult a pharmacist.

Do stretch mark creams work?

It’s a cautious ‘yes’ on this one. Reports are mixed but it’s said that massaging the stretched area with cream has a localised affect as it stimulates blood flow and helps the skin repair itself.

There’s no doubt that massaging your bump is a good way of connecting with your baby. And continuing to massage your skin after pregnancy is a little act of self-care, and that can only be a good thing. The best stretch mark creams will smell amazing, leave your feeling relaxed and your skin rejuvenated.

What to look for in a good pregnancy stretch mark cream

There are certain qualities you want to look for in a good stretch mark cream to make sure your skin is cared for and stays moisturised.

Oil or cream? Many mums prefer to choose an oil over a cream, as they provide additional moisturisation and keep the skin hydrated; but, many women prefer the feeling of a cream on their skin. Oils can often get on your clothes, too; using a cream avoids that hassle.

Choose a hypoallergenic variety: Hypoallergenic stretch mark creams are best if you have sensitive skin or any allergies, and when you're pregnant you might find your skin reacting differently to normal. Hypoallergenic brands won't have dyes or fragrances that could irritate.

Hydration is key: Using a stretch mark cream is all about keeping the skin hydrated. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides are great for moisturising.

Keep it calm: Soothe your skin with shea butter or cocoa butter ingredients; these are great if you're suffering with itchy skin - a common complaint in pregnancy.

Which are the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy?

My Expert Midwife Fantastic Skin Elastic
My Expert Midwife Fantastic Skin ElasticImage: Amazon
Price: £76.67

My Expert Midwife Fantastic Skin Elastic stretch mark cream was created by UK qualified midwife, Lesley Gilchris. Its rich serum is full of all-natural ingredients as well as vitamin E which works to encourage elasticity and helps your skin to stretch to accommodate your growing baby.

Recommended

This lotion absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any greasy residue on the skin like some others on the market. Our panel of mum testers all thought this helped fade and prevent stretch marks. It was shortlisted for the Best New Mum / Maternity Skincare Product in the Mother&Baby Awards 2018.

Any downsides? There were mixed feelings about the aloe vera scent.

Aveeno Moisturising Cream

Rrp: £15.49

Price: £14.30

Aveeno uses natural colloidal oatmeal proven to intensely nourish dry skin. Widely used for eczema, it's also brilliant for preventing and fading stretch marks, and keeping skin feeling calm and comfortable.

Any downsides? It feels more practical than pampering.

This romped home with bronze for the Best Pregnancy / Maternity Product in the Mother&Baby Awards 2018. It helps to prevent the appearance of stretch marks and boosts the natural elasticity of skin

Any downsides? Some of our mum testers would have preferred it in a tube.

What to read next:

The best skincare products to use during pregnancy

Stretch marks in pregnancy: why they appear and what can you do about them?

12 stretch mark creams that celebrity mums swear by

The best eco-friendly beauty products that don't cost the earth

9 of the best lightweight foundations for a skin-like finish

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How we write our articles and reviews
Mother & Baby is dedicated to ensuring our information is always valuable and trustworthy, which is why we only use reputable resources such as the NHS, reviewed medical papers, or the advice of a credible doctor, GP, midwife, psychotherapist, gynaecologist or other medical professionals. Where possible, our articles are medically reviewed or contain expert advice. Our writers are all kept up to date on the latest safety advice for all the products we recommend and follow strict reporting guidelines to ensure our content comes from credible sources. Remember to always consult a medical professional if you have any worries. Our articles are not intended to replace professional advice from your GP or midwife.