Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that brings about many changes in a woman’s body, and stretch marks are a common concern during this time. Stretch marks are scars under the skin that happen when the skin stretches quickly during pregnancy.
While it’s important to remember that these marks are natural and a testament to your body’s incredible feat, many women seek pregnancy stretch mark creams to reduce their appearance. By hydrating and moisturizing the expanding belly, these creams can potentially help diminish the prominence of stretch marks.
With so many pregnancy stretch mark creams on the market, knowing which is right for you can be hard. To help narrow the search, we’ve gathered a list of the top 12 pregnancy stretch mark creams in India for 2023. So, scroll down to know more!
Our Top Picks:
How Do Stretch Mark Creams Work?
Stretch marks, which doctors call striae distensae, appear due to the skin stretching rapidly, such as through sudden weight gain or loss.
When a person becomes pregnant, the skin around their abdomen stretches to accommodate the growing baby. This causes the skin’s support structure to break down and form a scar.
Several stretch mark creams are available on the market today, designed specifically to reduce the appearance of these marks. But how do these stretch mark creams work?
Stretch mark creams work in two different ways:
Avoiding Stretch Marks: Maintaining well-nourished and moisturized skin can potentially avert the emergence of stretch marks entirely. Applying a stretch mark cream approved for pregnancy to vulnerable areas like your abdomen can be a proactive measure to decrease the likelihood of stretch mark formation.
Diminish the Visibility of Stretch Marks: Complete elimination becomes unattainable once stretch marks have emerged. The emphasis shifts towards lessening their perceptibility. Utilizing creams abundant in vitamins A and E can aid in the reduction of stretch marks’ prominence.
Stretch mark creams are the most effective preventive measures, keeping skin moisturized and elastic. It’s worth noting that stretch marks are normal and a sign of growth and change.
What to Look for in Pregnancy Stretch Mark Cream?
Though stretch marks form differently depending on the individual, there are certain ingredients to look for in stretch mark creams that can help reduce the visibility of these marks. These include:
- Almond oil: Using a sweet almond oil-based cream can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
- Cocoa butter: Cocoa butter has a unique ability to penetrate through layers of skin, making it an effective ingredient for reducing the visibility of stretch marks.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
- Coconut oil: An effective moisturizer, coconut oil can help protect your skin against the formation of stretch marks.
- Plant extracts: Natural plant extracts like aloe vera extract can soothe irritated, itchy skin and help prevent stretch marks.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This ingredient helps keep skin hydrated and plump, which maintains the skin’s elasticity.
- Shea butter: Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids that can help lock in moisture and protect skin from dryness.
- Vitamin E: Pregnancy stretch marks creams that contain vitamin E help protect from free radicals and regenerate skin cells.
How We Chose Pregnancy Stretch Mark Creams?
Choosing pregnancy stretch mark creams involves considering several factors to ensure you select a product that suits your needs and preferences. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to choose the best stretch mark creams:
- Ingredients: Check the list of ingredients in the cream. Look for creams that contain ingredients known for their skin-nourishing and moisturizing properties. Avoid products with ingredients that may be harmful during pregnancy, such as retinoids.
- Hypoallergenic and Non-Comedogenic: Ensure the cream is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause allergies or clog pores, which can lead to acne. During pregnancy, gentle products are recommended due to increased skin sensitivity.
- Safety: Consult your healthcare provider before using any pregnancy skincare product, including stretch mark creams. They can guide whether a specific product is safe based on your health and pregnancy status.
- Fragrance: Consider whether you want a fragrance-free product or prefer a cream with a pleasant scent. Some pregnant women become more sensitive to strong fragrances, so choose accordingly.
- Ease of Application: Look for a cream that is easy to apply and absorbs quickly into the skin. You don’t want a product that leaves a greasy or sticky residue.
- Price: Choose a stretch mark cream within your budget. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always equal better quality.
Best Stretch Mark Creams for Pregnancy
Though stretch marks are a natural part of pregnancy, plenty of creams are available to help minimize their appearance. Here is our list of our top picks for the best pregnancy stretch mark creams in India:
| Product Name | Price at Amazon |
|---|---|
| DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Stretch Mark Cream | ₹ 629 |
| Phade Stretch Mark Cream | ₹ 630 |
| INTIMIFY Stretch Mark Cream | ₹ 228 |
| Bio-Oil Original Scar Removal | ₹ 304 |
| Palmer's Stretch Mark Cream | ₹ 489 |
| Cipla Mamaxpert Stretch Mark Cream | ₹ 471 |
| Pregnacream For Pregnancy | ₹ 825 |
| Healofy Stretch Mark Cream | ₹ 449 |
| Dermaflage Scar Removal Cream | ₹ 4,518 |
| Pokonut Natural Anti-Strech mark Cream | ₹ 288 |
| Burt's Bees Mama Bee Cream | ₹ 1,699 |
DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Stretch Mark Cream
DERMATOUCH scars defense cream is a unique formulation to reduce the stretch marks that appear during pregnancy. This product helps minimise the appearance of stretch marks on the skin and prevents their recurrence.
- Key Ingredients: Aqua, caprylic/capric triglyceride, Glycerin, shea butter, cocoa butter, butylene glycol, etc.
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "Recently, I tried the DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Stretch Mark Cream, and I must say, I am quite impressed with the results..."
- Enriched with cocoa or shea butter
- Improves skin elasticity
- Clinically proven
- Non-Greasy
- Pleasant Scent
- Results Take Time
- Tube design is not very travel-friendly
Why do we recommend this?
DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Stretch Mark Cream is a promising solution for those looking to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It provides visible results, contains natural ingredients, and offers excellent moisturization. While it may take some time to see results, the product is highly recommended for its affordability and effectiveness.
Phade Stretch Mark Cream
Phade Stretch Mark Cream is an all-natural stretch mark cream that helps prevent pregnancy marks and scars. To improve skin texture, the shea body butter in the cream helps hydrate and boost collagen production.
- Key Ingredients: Shea Butter, Avocado oil, Rosehip oil, Olive oil and Sweet almond oil
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "I was extremely sceptical while buying, but after using this, My skin feels so soft after...."
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Pregnancy-Safe
- Hydrating
- Natural Ingredients
- Also, it is good for sensitive skin
- It may take a while to see the results
Why do we recommend this?
This cream has impressive results in reducing the appearance of stretch marks, supported by a combination of powerful and natural ingredients. Positive customer reviews and testimonials back Phade Stretch Mark Cream, further substantiating its efficacy. While the price may seem high at first glance, the visible results and the boost in confidence it provides make it a worthwhile investment in your skincare routine.
INTIMIFY Stretch Mark Cream
INTIMIFY Stretch Mark Cream is a breakthrough product that helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks. For stretching skin, this product provides nourishing and hydrating action with the help of natural ingredients like Almond.
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Rosehip, Cocoa Butter, Collagen, Almond, Seabuckthorn, Shea Butter, Rapeseed, Coffee Seed
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "Best use in time of pregnancy. It works nicely so remove all types of scar..."
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Natural Ingredients
- Quick Absorption
- Great For Stretch Marks and Scarring
- Pleasant Scent
- It may not be suitable for sensitive skin
- The scent is quite strong
Why do we recommend this?
INTIMIFY Stretch Mark Cream presents a promising solution for individuals seeking to address their stretch mark concerns. Its effectiveness in reducing the visibility of stretch marks is evident, thanks to the inclusion of key ingredients like vitamin E, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Although the scent may not be everyone's preference, the cream's non-greasy texture and suitability for dry skin make it a comfortable addition to your skincare routine.
Fixderma Strallium Stretch Mark Cream
Fixderma Strallium Stretch Mark Cream is a comprehensive solution for stretch marks. It helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars while improving skin elasticity and hydration levels.
- Key Ingredients: Allium cepa, Red algae extract, Vitamin B3, Aloe vera extract, Almond oil.
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "Awesome product. Genuine product for scars and marks..."
- Visible Reduction in Stretch Marks
- Free from parabens, mineral oil, and chemicals
- Clinically tested
- Quick Absorption
- Great Value for Money
- Results may vary from person to person.
Why do we recommend this?
Fixderma Strallium Stretch Mark Cream has truly exceeded parents' expectations. Its powerful, natural ingredients effectively reduce stretch marks, deeply hydrate the skin, and offer great value for money. Its quick absorption and non-greasy texture make it an ideal choice for those looking to reduce the visibility of stretch marks with minimal effort. This cream is a fantastic option if you're looking for a comprehensive solution.
Bio-Oil Original Scar Removal
Bio-oil is a widely recognized skincare product often used for scar management, among other concerns. For your uneven skin tone, it helps with stretch marks and scarring due to its unique combination of natural plant oils.
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Calendula oil, Lavender oil, Rosemary oil, Chamomile oil
- Type: Oil
- Customer Review: "It really helps to reduce blemishes...but need to apply constantly..."
- Natural Ingredients
- Effective for Scars
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-Comedogenic
- Easily Absorbed
- Light scent
- Not Suitable for Oily Skin
- Results Take Time
Why do we recommend this?
This stretch mark oil is highly recommended for its unique combination of natural plant oils. Its unique formulation and key ingredients make it an effective choice for many individuals seeking to address scars and other skincare concerns. However, it's essential to be patient and consistent in its application, as results may take some time to become evident. Always follow the product's instructions and consult a dermatologist for specific skin concerns or conditions.
Palmer's Stretch Mark Cream
Palmer's Stretch Mark Cream is a popular skincare product formulated to help prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It is particularly favored by pregnant women and individuals experiencing rapid weight gain.
- Key Ingredients: Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Natural Oils, Collagen, Elastin and Lutein
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "Good cream, to avoid stretch marks and to attenuate those that have come out, as well as to moisturize the skin texture thoroughly..."
- Lightweight Formula
- Hypoallergenic and Non-Comedogenic
- Natural Ingredients
- Reduces the Appearance of Stretch Marks
- Clinically Proven
- Thick texture
- Strong Scent
Why do we recommend this?
Palmer's Stretch Mark Cream is a popular and affordable option for those looking to address stretch marks. The combination of cocoa and shea butter, along with other key ingredients, provides essential moisture to the skin and improves elasticity. It's a valuable addition to a skincare routine during pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or whenever stretch marks are a concern. Using the product consistently and following the application instructions is important for the best results.
Cipla Mamaxpert Stretch Mark Cream
Cipla Mamaxpert Stretch Mark Cream is an advanced formulation that helps minimize the appearance of scars and stretch marks during pregnancy. The active ingredients in this cream, like shea butter, help keep skin moisturized and improve elasticity.
- Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Zingiber extract, tea tree oil & neem extract
- Type: Cream
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Natural Ingredients
- Great for Stretch Marks and Scarring
- Hydrating and Moisturizing Action
- Pleasant Scent
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin
- Results Take Time
Why do we recommend this?
Cipla Mamaxpert Stretch Mark Cream is a great solution for individuals seeking to address their stretch mark concerns during pregnancy. The cream contains natural ingredients that work together to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity. While it may take some time to see results, the pleasant smell and hydrating action make it worth considering. Plus, the fact that it is suitable for sensitive skin makes it an ideal choice!
Pregnacream For Pregnancy
This cream from Pregnacare is specifically formulated for pregnant women to help with pregnancy stretch marks. The product delivers intense hydration to moisturize and prevent dryness, while its natural ingredients provide nutrients essential for skin repair.
- Key Ingredients: Propylene glycol, Cestostearyl Alcohol, Aloe Vera
- Type: Cream
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Intense Hydration
- Paraben-free
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin
- Clinically Tested
- Not suitable for dry skin
Why do we recommend this?
The Pregnacream cream focuses on providing intense hydration to the skin, a factor that's essential for maintaining elasticity. Its natural ingredients deliver much-needed nourishment, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Lastly, its paraben-free formula and clinically tested results further increase its credibility as an effective product for reducing stretch marks.
Healofy Stretch Mark Cream
Healofy Stretch Mark Cream is an effective product designed to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. The blend of natural ingredients helps improve skin elasticity, making it an excellent choice for pregnant women.
- Key Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, Aloe Vera, and Cocoa Butter.
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "I used this product for my stretch marks, which I am using after my delivery product is really good; it is worth...
- Non-Greasy Texture
- Natural Ingredients
- Improves Skin Elasticity
- No Parabens or Alcohol
- Not Tested on Animals
- May not be suitable for all skin types
- Packaging is not very travel-friendly
Why do we recommend this?
Healofy Stretch Mark Cream offers an innovative solution for reducing stretch marks. Its natural composition and non-greasy texture make it a great choice for pregnant women, and its formulation helps keep skin nourished and hydrated. Although results may take time to show, the positive customer reviews and testimonials suggest that this cream is worth considering.
Dermaflage Scar Removal Cream
Dermaflage Scar Removal Cream is a clinically proven solution for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. It claims to help reduce scars and promote collagen production, making it an excellent choice for pregnant women.
- Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Aqua, Propylene glycol, Cestostearyl Alcohol
- Type: Cream
- Clinically Proven
- Gentle Formula
- Non-Greasy Texture
- Not Tested On Animals
- Costly
- Tube design is not very travel-friendly
Why do we recommend this?
Dermaflage Scar Removal Cream has been criticized for its slow results, but it still remains a good choice because it is clinically proven and provides long-term effects. While it may take some time to see the results, this cream also helps improve skin elasticity and hydration. It is an excellent option for those who are looking for a safe and effective solution for their stretch marks concerns.
Pokonut Natural Anti-Strech mark Cream
Pokonut Natural Anti-Stretch Mark Cream is formulated to nourish and moisturize the skin, helping reduce the appearance of stretch marks. The cream also contains natural ingredients such as Turmeric and almond oil for maximum benefit.
- Key Ingredients: Aqua, Turmeric extract, coconut oil, sesame oil, Aloe vera extract, shea butter, mulethi extract, Almond Oil, Rosewater, Vitamin E
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "Very lightweight ayurvedic cream. Used it for some, and it feels good..."
- Non-Greasy Texture
- Natural Ingredients
- Improves Skin Elasticity
- Good for Stretch Marks and Scars
- Results Take Time
Why do we recommend this?
Pokonut Natural Anti-Stretch Mark Cream is an effective solution for pregnant women looking to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It contains essential oils that nourish and moisturize the skin, making it a great choice for post-delivery skin care. While its scent may be off-putting for some, the product offers good value for money and is an excellent choice for budget shoppers.
Burt's Bees Mama Bee Cream
Burt's Bees Mama Bee is a safe and natural product designed to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. With its nutrient-rich blend, this cream helps soothe and soften skin during pregnancy.
- Key Ingredients: Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, etc.
- Type: Cream
- Customer Review: "The texture is perfect and absorbs well into the skin. It is too soon to say if it prevents stretch marks, but it is very hydrating..."
- Non-Greasy Texture
- Natural Ingredients
- Hydrates and Softens Skin
- Not Tested on Animals
- Results Take Time
- Price is slightly higher than competitors
Why do we recommend this?
Burt's Bees Mama Bee is a great choice for those seeking an effective and natural solution to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. It contains a blend of natural ingredients, including cocoa butter and jojoba oil, that help keep skin hydrated during pregnancy. Moreover, the pleasant scent adds to its appeal as a skincare product. While it may take some time to see visible results, the product is highly recommended for its natural composition and effectiveness.
When should you start using stretch mark cream during pregnancy?
It's generally recommended to start using a stretch mark cream during pregnancy early on, ideally in the first trimester. Developing stretch marks can occur as your body undergoes rapid changes to accommodate the growing baby. Prevention is often more effective than treating established stretch marks.
Starting in the first trimester allows you to establish a consistent skincare routine, ensuring that your skin remains well-hydrated and nourished throughout your pregnancy. Applying the cream regularly can improve skin elasticity, boost collagen production, and reduce the likelihood of stretch marks as your belly, breasts, and other areas expand.
However, please consult your healthcare provider before using any pregnancy skincare product. They'll be able to provide personalized advice based on your health and pregnancy status.
Ingredients to Avoid for Stretch Marks
You should avoid certain ingredients in a stretch mark cream. These include:
- Retinoids (Retin-A, Retinol, Tretinoin): Vitamin A derivatives are commonly used for anti-ageing and acne treatments. However, they should be avoided during pregnancy, as excessive intake can harm the developing fetus.
- Phthalates: These are chemicals used in some cosmetics and fragrances. They have raised concerns about their potential to disrupt hormones and harm fetal development.
- Artificial Fragrances: Strong fragrances can trigger nausea and skin sensitivity, which are common during pregnancy. Opt for fragrance-free products with natural, mild scents.
- Essential Oils: Certain essential oils can be harmful during pregnancy, especially in high concentrations. Consult a healthcare provider before using products with essential oils and ensure proper dilution.
- Salicylic Acid: While low concentrations of salicylic acid (under 2%) in topical products are generally considered safe, it's wise to consult your healthcare provider before using any products containing salicylic acid during pregnancy.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Although commonly used to treat acne, it's best to consult your healthcare provider before using benzoyl peroxide products during pregnancy.
- Aluminum Chloride: Found in some antiperspirants, this ingredient should be used sparingly or avoided during pregnancy.
- Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that is best avoided during pregnancy due to concerns about its safety for the unborn child.
- Parabens: Parabens are used in some cosmetics as preservatives, but they can be absorbed through the skin and may cause harm to the baby.
Stretch mark creams for pregnancy comparison
Certainly! Here's a table comparing the stretch mark creams for pregnancy based on price, size, key ingredients, and customer ratings:
| PRODUCT NAMES | PRICE
(IN RUPEES) |
SIZE | KEY INGREDIENTS | CUSTOMER RATINGS |
| DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Stretch Mark Cream | ₹570 | 125g | Aqua, caprylic/capric triglyceride, Glycerin, shea butter, cocoa butter, butylene glycol, etc. | 4.2 out of 5 stars |
| Phade Stretch Mark Cream | ₹598 | 200ml | Shea Butter, Avocado oil, Rosehip oil, Olive oil and Sweet almond oil | 4.2 out of 5 stars |
| INTIMIFY Stretch Mark Cream | ₹225 | 50g | Vitamin E, Rosehip, Cocoa Butter, Collagen, Almond, Seabuckthorn, Shea Butter, Rapeseed, Coffee Seed | 4.0 out of 5 stars |
| Fixderma Strallium Stretch Mark Cream | ₹560 | 150g | Allium cepa, Red algae extract, Vitamin B3, Aloe vera extract, Almond oil. | 4.0 out of 5 stars |
| Bio-Oil Original Scar Removal | ₹245 | 60ml | Vitamin E, Calendula oil, Lavender oil, Rosemary oil, Chamomile oil | 4.1 out of 5 stars |
| Palmer's Stretch Mark CreaM | ₹580 | 125g | Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Natural Oils, Collagen, Elastin and Lutein | 4.1 out of 5 stars |
| Cipla Mamaxpert Stretch Mark Cream | ₹449 | 60g | Shea butter, Zingiber extract, tea tree oil & neem extract | No customer review |
| Pregnacream For Pregnancy | ₹780 | 100g | Propylene glycol, Cestostearyl Alcohol, Aloe Vera | No customer review |
| Healofy Stretch Mark Cream | ₹489 | 100g | Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, Aloe Vera, and Cocoa Butter. | 4.0 out of 5 stars |
| Dermaflage Scar Removal Cream | ₹5,032 | 60g | Hyaluronic acid, Aqua, Propylene glycol, Cestostearyl Alcohol | No customer review |
| Pokonut Natural Anti-Strech mark Cream | ₹445 | 50g | Aqua, Turmeric extract, coconut oil, sesame oil, Aloe vera extract, shea butter, mulethi extract, Almond Oil, Rosewater, Vitamin E | 5 out of 5 stars |
| Burt's Bees Mama Bee Cream | ₹1,118 | 185g | Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, etc. | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
