Stretch marks are an incredibly common skin concern, developing when the skin stretches faster than it can comfortably adapt. While they’re completely normal, the best stretch mark creams can help support the skin through these changes, keeping it soft, moisturised and more comfortable along the way.
Pregnancy is often the trigger people think of first, but they can also appear during puberty, after weight changes or as a result of muscle growth. Joanne Evans, skin expert and founder of the Skin Matters clinic in London, explains: “Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly, causing the collagen and elastin fibres within the deeper layers of the skin to tear. Initially, they may appear red, purple or pink before gradually fading to a lighter, scar-like appearance over time.”
She adds that, while no topical product can prevent stretch marks completely, certain ingredients can help improve the skin's appearance. “Retinoids, peptides, hyaluronic acid and nourishing ingredients that support collagen production may help improve texture and reduce visibility.”
I'm writing this article having experienced pregnancy stretch marks and currently being in my second trimester with my second child. I've found myself revisiting the products I used the first time around, while also testing newer launches that have appeared on the market since. Interestingly, I didn't develop stretch marks in my previous pregnancy, though whether that was down to genetics, skincare, luck or a combination of all three, is impossible to say.
It's important to remember that stretch marks are completely normal. But if you’re on the hunt for a product that can help your skin feel more supple and comfortable, I’ve tested a range of creams, oils and balms to find the formulas worth investing in.
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The best stretch marks creams for 2026 are:
- Best overall – Weleda stretch mark body butter: £21.95, Lookfantastic.com
- Best budget buy – Palmer's massage lotion for stretch marks: £5.19, Boots.com
- Best oil – Bio-Oil skincare oil: £9.49, Amazon.co.uk
- Best for quick application – Aveeno moisturising body oil spray: £7.87, Boots.com
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Weleda stretch mark body butter
Rating: 5/5
Best: stretch mark cream overall
Why we love it
- Rich but absorbs quickly
- Pleasant, subtle scent
- Leaves skin feeling deeply nourished
Take note
- Tub packaging might not suit everyone
I've tried plenty of pregnancy body products over the years, but Weleda's stretch mark body butter was the one I found myself reaching for most consistently – so much so, that I’ve finished an entire pot and already purchased another. Packaged in a sturdy, glass tub, it feels reassuringly substantial and instantly gives the impression of a premium treatment rather than just another moisturiser.
The texture sits somewhere between a rich cream and a balm. It melts beautifully into the skin as soon as it's massaged onto the bump, hips and thighs, providing plenty of slip without feeling overly heavy. The scent is soft and comforting, with subtle floral notes that never felt overpowering, even on days when my pregnancy-induced sensitivity to fragrance was at its peak.
Despite its richness, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it absorbed. My skin felt nourished immediately, but the greasy feeling disappeared within around five minutes, meaning I could get dressed without worrying about transferring product onto clothes or feeling uncomfortable.
Throughout testing, it left my skin feeling noticeably softer and more comfortable, particularly during periods when my bump felt tight and stretched.
Key specifications
Buy now £21.95, Lookfantastic.com
Palmer's massage lotion for stretch marks
Rating: 4/5
Best: budget stretch mark cream
Why we love it
- Excellent value
- Pleasantly rich texture
Take note
- Fragrance may divide opinion
- Basic packaging
Palmer's is one of the most affordable stretch mark creams I tested and it consistently impressed me with its value. The squeezy tube is practical but you can also get this formula in a larger pump bottle, which is incredibly generous and makes daily use feel economical.
The lotion has a classic cocoa butter scent that I personally enjoyed, though it is noticeably stronger than some competitors. Texture-wise, it's lighter than a balm but richer than a standard body lotion.
Absorption is very quick and any tackiness disappeared after just a few minutes. It doesn't feel quite as luxurious as premium formulas, but it performs extremely well and leaves skin feeling comfortable and moisturised. For those wanting an affordable daily option, it's difficult to fault.
Key specifications
Buy now £6.49, Boots.com
Bio-oil skincare oil
Rating: 4.5/5
Best: stretch mark oil
Why we love it
- Lightweight texture
- One bottle lasts a long time
Take note
- Doesn't feel particularly luxurious
Bio-Oil remains one of the most recognisable names in stretch mark care, and after revisiting it during pregnancy, I can see why it's remained popular for so long.
The lightweight oil comes in a practical plastic bottle and has a distinctive fragrance that many people will instantly recognise. It's easy to apply and spreads exceptionally well, meaning even the largest bottle lasts a long time.
There is a fair amount of greasiness left over, which I did find slightly off-putting but it absorbed reasonably well after 20 to 30 minutes, leaving skin soft and supple. While it doesn't feel as luxurious as some premium alternatives like the Hatch oil below, it offers reliable hydration at a far more accessible price point.
Key specifications
Buy now £9.49, Amazon.co.uk
Clarins body partner stretch mark expert cream
Rating: 4.5/5
Best: lightweight stretch mark cream
Why we love it
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Hygienic tube packaging
Take note
- Doesn't feel as deeply nourishing as richer balms
Clarins has long been associated with body care, so I was keen to see how its pregnancy-focused cream performed. The sleek tube packaging makes it easy to dispense the right amount without waste, which I appreciated during daily use.
The cream has a silky, lotion-like consistency that glides across the skin effortlessly. It feels lighter than many dedicated stretch mark products, making it ideal for morning use when you're getting dressed shortly afterwards and it has an almost cooling effect which I appreciated on hot days. The fragrance is delicate and clean, with none of the strong herbal notes some pregnancy products lean into.
Absorption is excellent. Within a few minutes, my skin felt moisturised but not coated, and there was virtually no residue left behind. While I loved the elegant texture and ease of use, I did find myself applying it more generously than richer alternatives, meaning I worked through the tube fairly quickly.
Key specifications
Buy now £42, Boots.com
Aveeno moisturising body oil spray
Rating: 4.5/5
Best: stretch mark oil for quick application
Why we love it
- Quick and easy spray application
- Lightweight, non-sticky feel
Take note
- Spray can be slightly messy
- Less luxurious than other products
As my bump has grown, I've increasingly appreciated products that don't require a lengthy application process, and Aveeno's skin relief oil spray quickly became one of the most convenient options in my routine. The spray bottle makes it easy to apply directly onto larger areas such as the stomach, hips and thighs, and I found it particularly useful after showering when I wanted something quick but nourishing.
The formula is lighter than many traditional body oils and has a dry-oil feel once massaged into the skin. It's fragrance-free, which I appreciated during pregnancy, especially on days when stronger scents felt overwhelming. The oil spreads easily and leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable, helping to ease some of the tightness that can come with a growing bump.
While there is an initial oily finish, it never felt excessively greasy and absorbed within around 10 minutes. My only criticism is that the spray nozzle can occasionally dispense more product than needed, but overall it's a fuss-free option that slots easily into a daily routine.
Key specifications
Buy now £7.87, Boots.com
Pai Skincare the gemini stretch mark dual system
Rating: 4/5
Best: stretch mark cream for sensitive skin
Why we love it
- Excellent for sensitive skin
- Lightweight cream
- Nourishing oil
- Fragrance-free
Take note
- Two-step routine won't suit everyone
- Higher price point
Pai's two-step approach is unique among the products I tested. The set combines both a cream and an oil, which are designed to be layered together. This initially felt slightly excessive but ultimately became quite a satisfying routine.
The cream is lightweight and fragrance-free, while the oil adds a nourishing finishing layer, albeit with a somewhat greasy finish. The products come packaged in a squeezy tube and practical pump bottle, both of which make application quick and mess-free. As someone whose skin can become more reactive during pregnancy, I also appreciated the lack of added fragrance.
Using both products together does take more time than a single cream, but the payoff is exceptionally soft, comfortable skin. The oil layer leaves a sheen initially, though most of the greasiness settled after around 20 minutes. This is the product I'd recommend to anyone prioritising gentle, skin-friendly formulations.
Key specifications
Buy now £51.7, Amazon.co.uk
Hatch mama belly oil
Rating: 4/5
Best: luxury stretch mark oil
Why we love it
- Lightweight oil texture
- Fresh, uplifting fragrance
- Elegant packaging
Take note
- Expensive
- Pipette can be messy
If you're someone who enjoys the ritual of applying a body oil, Hatch’s mama belly oil feels undeniably luxurious. The glass bottle and pipette applicator give it a premium feel, and it looks beautiful on a bedside table or bathroom shelf.
The oil itself is lightweight compared to many traditional stretch mark oils. It spreads easily and a little goes a surprisingly long way, making the bottle feel more economical than it initially appears. The scent is fresh and uplifting, with citrus notes that felt energising rather than medicinal.
There is some greasiness immediately after application, as you'd expect from an oil, but I found it settled within around 20 minutes. On evenings when my skin felt particularly dry, I appreciated the lingering softness it provided. My only criticism is that the pipette can feel slightly fiddly when you're trying to quickly apply product after a shower.
Key specifications
Buy now £61, Revolve.com
Neal's Yard Remedies mother's balm
Rating: 4/5
Best: natural stretch mark cream
Why we love it
- Deeply nourishing
- Comforting natural scent
- Excellent overnight treatment
- Fragrance-free
Take note
- Quite greasy initially
Neal's Yard Remedies mother's balm was one of the richest products I tested and immediately stood out thanks to its traditional balm texture. Housed in a large blue glass jar, it feels wonderfully indulgent and has a distinctly natural, apothecary-style aesthetic.
The formula is organic and completely fragrance-free, making it an excellent choice for sensitive or easily reactive skin. Its high beeswax content gives it a noticeably waxy feel, so it requires a little warming between the hands before application. Once melted, however, it spreads surprisingly well and creates a protective, nourishing layer over the skin.
Because it's a balm, it does leave a noticeable layer on the skin initially. I found the greasiness lasted around 20 to 30 minutes, making it better suited to evening use than rushed mornings. However, if your skin is feeling particularly tight or dry, few products delivered the same level of comfort.
If the Pai dual system is outside your budget, or you simply don't want the hassle of using two separate formulas, this is a fantastic alternative that delivers rich, soothing hydration in a single product.
Key specifications
Buy now £29, Ocado.com
Naydaya body saviour
Rating: 4/5
Best: stretch mark cream for dry skin
Why we love it
- Intensely nourishing
- Great for dry skin
- Great for dry skin
Take note
- Rich texture may not suit everyone
- Small size
Naydaya's body saviour feels specifically designed for skin that needs serious nourishment. The compact tub contains a dense, almost butter-like balm that melts beautifully with body heat, and it was one of the nicest formulas to apply that I tested.
The balm feels rich and cocooning without becoming uncomfortable, and I particularly enjoyed using it after showering in the evening, when my skin was at its driest. The scent is gentle and natural, avoiding the strong fragrances that can become overwhelming during pregnancy.
It does leave a protective layer on the skin for around 15 to 20 minutes, but in return you get lasting hydration that remains noticeable the following morning. For anyone experiencing significant dryness or itchiness, it's a standout option.
Key specifications
Buy now £37, Boots.com
Cowshed mother stretch mark balm
Rating: 4/5
Best: scented stretch mark cream
Why we love it
- Beautiful fragrance
- Rich, comforting texture
Take note
- Slightly greasy after application
If scent plays a major role in your skincare enjoyment, Cowshed's mother stretch mark balm should be high on your list. The fragrance feels spa-like and relaxing without becoming overpowering, turning application into a genuinely enjoyable ritual.
The balm texture is rich but easy to massage into the skin. Packaged in a large tub, it feels generous and should last most of a pregnancy with regular use. It delivers plenty of nourishment and left my skin feeling exceptionally soft.
There is some greasiness after application, lasting around 15 to 20 minutes, but I felt the moisturising benefits justified the wait. This is the product I found myself reaching for when I wanted a little self-care rather than simply ticking off a skincare task.
Key specifications
Buy now £22, Lookfantastic.com
Your questions about stretch mark creams answered
What is the best stretch mark cream?
After weeks of testing, the standout product for me was Weleda stretch mark body butter. It strikes the best balance between richness and practicality, delivering long-lasting hydration without leaving behind an uncomfortable greasy residue. I loved the comforting texture, subtle scent and how consistently soft and comfortable it left my skin feeling throughout my second trimester.
If you prefer an oil, Bio-Oil is a dependable investment with a nourishing finish. Meanwhile, those shopping on a budget should consider Palmer's massage lotion, which offers excellent hydration and value for money. I also need to shout out the Clarins body partner, which is ideal for anyone who doesn’t enjoy the stickiness you can so often experience after applying body creams.
Ultimately, while no product can promise to prevent stretch marks entirely, the Weleda formula was the one I most enjoyed using day after day, and that's often the key to maintaining a consistent skincare routine throughout pregnancy.
How I tested stretch mark creams
I'm currently pregnant with my second child and tested each product over a two-week period as part of my daily pregnancy skincare routine. I didn't develop stretch marks during my first pregnancy, but because it's impossible to know exactly why, I approached this test by focusing on factors that contribute to comfort, hydration and ease of long-term use. I assessed each formula against the qualities most people are likely to value, including:
Are stretch marks hereditary?
Evans explains that genetics can play a significant role in determining who develops stretch marks. “If your parents experienced stretch marks, you may be more predisposed due to inherited differences in skin elasticity, collagen production and overall skin structure,” she says. “However, hormonal changes and lifestyle factors also contribute.”
Do stretch mark creams work?
While no cream can completely remove stretch marks, there are certain ingredients that can help improve the skin's appearance, including retinoids, peptides, hyaluronic acid and nourishing ingredients that support collagen production – these may help improve texture and reduce visibility. “While pregnant I would use oils all the way through to keep skin fed and supple avocado oil or any organic fatty acid rich oils are amazing to use,” says Evans. “Rich shea butters and ceramides are also good to lubricate the skin.”
Can you get rid of stretch marks completely?
Stretch marks are a form of scarring, so they cannot usually be removed completely. However, Evans says that some professional treatments such as microneedling, laser resurfacing, mesotherapy and collagen-stimulating procedures can significantly improve their colour, texture and overall appearance.
“The earlier treatment begins, the better the potential outcome, although older stretch marks can also respond well to appropriate therapies,” she explains.” I always remind clients that stretch marks are incredibly common and completely normal. While we may not be able to erase them entirely, modern treatments can often make a significant difference, helping the skin look smoother and more even over time.”
Meet the experts
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
IndyBest’s assistant editor, Sarah Jones has years of experience rigorously testing a wide range of family products from the best toddler learning towers to the best Jellycat toys. As a parent herself who is currently pregnant with her second child, Sarah is well-aware of the stress that pregnancy puts on the skin and tested each of the formulas on her growing bump during the second trimester.
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