Use this guide to find the best lotion for stretch marks whether you are trying to treat existing stretch marks or if you want to prevent them before they even start!
What Are Stretch Marks?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, stretch marks are a type of scar that develops when skin stretches or shrinks quickly.
Pregnancy is a time that you are more likely to develop stretch marks due the rapid weight gain or weight changes your body goes through while the baby is growing. Stretch marks during pregnancy are seen on the belly mostly, but can also be found on thighs, hips, lower back and buttocks.
Can Stretch Marks Be Removed?
Unlike pregnancy, stretch marks are here to stay. Once you get them, they never really go away.
Your baby bump can be long gone, but your stretch marks remain. While stretch marks do not have any implications on your health, they can affect your self esteem if you are not happy with the way they look.
The good news is that you can minimize or lessen the appearance of your stretch marks. You can even prevent or lessen your chances of getting stretch marks during pregnancy.
There are several creams on the market today aimed at prevention and reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
Benefits of Using a Stretch Mark Cream
Your skin stays moisturized because these creams offer intense hydration.
They are rich with Vitamins A & E which lighten stretch marks.
Promote healthy and supple skin while supporting stretching skin.
Can be used on a variety of skin types including sensitive skin.
Relieves itchiness from dry skin.
The Best Lotion for Stretch Marks
These are the best lotions, creams and oils that people seem to be the happiest with. Good news, they will all run you under $25 dollars! You don’t have to break the bank to start preventing or treating stretch marks.
1.
The Honest Organic Belly Balm is an organic, cocoa butter rich body butter that is safe for use during pregnancy.
This is rub has the consistency of Vaseline and it can soothe itchy dry skin. If you love the smell of essential oils, you will enjoy this product. For some, the scent is overwhelming, but most people love that it moisturizes so well.
2.
This Body Merry Stretch Mark and Scars Defense Cream was rated the number one best seller in Maternity Skin Care. (see all 5 star reviews here!)
The cream is not only amazing for preventing stretch marks but it also treats deep stretch marks quickly. Many have raved about its ability to diminish the appearance of stretch marks. The worst thing people have to say is that they don’t like the smell, but smell is subjective. Pregnant noses may also be a little more sensitive to the smell.
3.
Botanic Tree Stretch Mark Cream Remover promises results in two months. That requires some commitment, but may be worth it if you see noticeable results.
The cream has organic extracts of several natural ingredients including cocoa and shea butter, avocado oil and organic moringa .
4.
You’ve probably heard of Bio Oil, and for good reason. It’s the number one selling scar and stretch mark product in 18 countries. With over 6,000 reviews and a 4 star rating, this is a clear favorite for many.
Some pregnant moms have used this to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. It also helps combat dry skin and itchiness with its unique blend of oils and vitamin extracts. Don’t worry if you’ve had your baby already, this oil is great at reducing the appearance of existing stretch marks as well.
The only bad reviews about this product just mention that you should make sure you order the legitimate product and not a knock off. Check the seller’s information before you buy and you should be good to go. Slow and steady wins the race here, Bio Oil suggests that you apply two to three times daily for 3 months.
5.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Cream has among many other nourishing ingredients, cocoa and shea butter. Cocoa butter is an excellent emollient, meaning that it provides an extra layer of protection to keep moisture in like a protective barrier.
Remember the key to preventing stretch marks during pregnancy is to keep the skin hydrated while it’s growing and stretching.
Most reviews rave about how thick the cream is. Due to the thickness of the cream a little goes a long way which helpful if you start early on in your pregnancy , you could get your money’s worth! This is widely available at most grocery stores, drug stores and Amazon for under 11 dollars, but you can check the current price.
6.
Belly Oil by Mama Earth contains no Petroleum, Mineral Oil, Parabens or Artificial Fragrance. The non artificial scent is less likely to irritate pregnant noses.
Although it says belly butter it can be used all over the body including breasts and thighs.
It is certified to NSF/ANSI 305 by Oregon Tilt which means that it contains at least 70% organic ingredients.
Unlike oils you don’t have to wait to put on your clothes, its not greasy. Put it on before you get into bed without fear of staining fabric or clothes.
7.
The use of retinol, topical or otherwise, in pregnancy is not recommended. The good news is that Mommy Knows Best Stretch Mark Vanishing Cream contains none!
This body butter cream uses high quality essential oils, vitamins, cocoa, shea and mango butter to tone and tighten your skin while treating stretch marks.
This formula works to reduce the appearance and the the depth of stretch marks. 100% of participants in a clinical study saw a visible reduction of stretch marks, age spots, scars, blotches, & skin discoloration.
8.
Mama Mio The Tummy Rub Butter is by Mama Mio, started in 2004. This is as one of the very first brands dedicated entirely to pregnancy skincare.
It’s main ingredients are organic coconut and avocado oil with shea butter. Coconut oil and avocado oil are two good sources of omega, which help manage oil production and promote hydration of your skin.
Did you get stretch marks during your pregnancy? What did you use? Share this guide to the best lotion for stretch marks with a mom to be or even a mom who’s recently delivered! This guide might just might brighten her day and her skin.
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If you didn’t start treating stretch marks during your pregnancy, it’s never too late to change your postpartum skincare routine.
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