10 Best Anti-Stretch Mark Products in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Stretch marks on legs, breasts, stomach, or thighs? This is totally normal. However, this may make you feel less confident when wearing your stunning outfit. Here’s the thing—dermatologists say that there is no scientific study proving that creams, oils, and lotions can miraculously remove these marks.
But they can definitely improve the appearance of stretch marks! To help you make the best choice, we prepared a guide with comments from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas. We also listed down our top picks that can be purchased online. For more information on how to choose a product that will solve your stretch marks woes, scroll down below!
Quick List - Top Anti-Stretch Mark Products
Bio-Oil
Infused With Vitamins and Plant Extracts to Improve the Appearance of Stretch Marks and Scars
Palmer’s
Prevent the Formation of Stretch Marks With Pure Cocoa and Shea Butter
Clarins
Enhance Skin Firmness and Elasticity With PhytoStretchComplex
Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas is a board-certified dermatologist from the Philippines. She enjoys teaching and gives lectures here and abroad. She is also very active in social media educating the public and correcting misinformation online. Her other special interests include aesthetic and procedural dermatology such as cosmeceuticals, injectables, lasers, and energy-based devices.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- What Causes Stretch Marks?
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas
- Can Stretch Marks Be Permanently Removed?
- What’s the Difference Between Red Stretch Marks and White Stretch Marks?
- Can You Get Stretch Marks From Scratching the Skin?
- More Skincare Products to Prevent Stretch Marks
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
What Causes Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are long stripes or lines occurring on the skin due to rapid or abrupt growth, pregnancy, weight gain, and weight loss. This happens in the dermis, a deep layer of skin composed of connective tissues. Stretch marks pop up when the connective tissues are stretched beyond the skin's limit of elasticity.
Stretch marks commonly show up on the arms, back, breasts, buttocks, hips, shoulders, and stomach. Anyone can have these marksーthat includes teenagers during adolescence. Another thing that may cause stretch marks is corticosteroid, an ointment used to treat prickly heat rashes and insect bites. Long-term use may result in the increase of cortisone in your system, weakening the skin's elasticity.
Stretch marks are generally known as striae distensae but are sometimes called striae rubra (red or purplish, new ones) or striae alba (white or silvery, old ones). They are like scars that form after abrupt stretching and shrinking of the skin, which causes the collagen and elastin in the dermis to rupture. They are often asymptomatic and form perpendicular to skin tension lines.
Apart from skin expansion, other risk factors for developing stretch marks include genetic predisposition, fluctuating hormones(specifically corticosteroids), and usage or intake of certain medications. Stretch marks are said to be more common in females than in males.
How to Choose an Anti-Stretch Mark Product - Buying Guide
Wondering how to pick the best anti-stretch mark product for you? With guidance from a board-certified dermatologist, we've listed down the factors you need to know when purchasing this product below.
Pick a Stretch Mark Product With Gentle and Natural Ingredients
Commonly, stretch marks form during pregnancy, which is why it is important to consider the ingredients. However, note that some chemicals found in the products might be harmful during pregnancy, so it's best to consult your doctor before using them.
Shea and Cocoa Butter to Promote Skin Elasticity
Opt to use a stretch marks product with natural ingredients like shea and cocoa butter. These ingredients contain fatty acids, which are best for hydrating and developing the skin's elasticity. They're often used by pregnant women to minimize stretch marks. You can also look for other oils like avocado oil, sesame seed oil, and maracuja oil to achieve similar effects.
Shea and cocoa butter are very common ingredients found in stretch mark creams. But according to research, most of the topical ingredients that claim to prevent stretch marks don't actually work. They may temporarily improve the appearance of already existing stretchmarks but have been shown by several studies to not do anything in terms of preventing them from forming.
Keep Your Skin Hydrated and Soft With Sunflower Oil
Without a doubt, this natural oil is making a buzz in the skincare industry. Sunflower oil is well-known as a remedy for skin ailments because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
It is composed of vitamins and nutrients, like oleic acid, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and stretch marks. Sunflower oil can also help your skin stay hydrated and soft.
Oils are actually good moisturizers. Some are emollients that keep the skin hydrated, others are occlusives that help seal in moisture, and others do both, depending on their molecular structure. Oils may help alleviate symptoms such as itch in existing stretchmarks, while others are said to improve the color with continued use.
Coconut Oil and Argan Oil Are Best for Smoothening and Soothing Dry and Itchy Skin
Apply stretch mark products with coconut oil for nourished skin. This is known as a hydrating oil, which can smoothen and lighten evident marks. Most importantly, this plant-based oil soothes and hydrates dry and itchy skin. You can also try lotions or oils with oatmeal.
Another beneficial oil is argan oil, which has lots of skin benefits. This oil is enriched with vitamin E, vitamin A, and fatty acids, giving your skin the needed moisture to improve its appearance. This natural ingredient contains anti-inflammatory properties, which help in healing itchy stretch marks faster.
Coconut oil is a good moisturizer that strengthens the skin barrier—being both an occlusive and an emollient. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial (from Lauric Acid) properties as well as antioxidant properties. In particular, virgin coconut oil contains high levels of Vitamin E.
Argan oil is also a good source of fatty acids (oleic and linoleic acid) and has high vitamin E content. In terms of their benefits in stretchmarks, more studies are needed.
Favor Hydrating Ingredients Like Hyaluronic Acid to Keep Skin Hydrated and Ease Irritated Skin
One of the growing concerns when having stretch marks is itchiness and dry skin. This happens when there are changes in the collagen and when the scars start developing. Applying creams, lotions, or oils with moisturizing properties can somehow ease irritated skin. Try out products packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study done in pregnant women showed that stretch mark severity may be reduced by applying moisturizers and emollients containing vitamin E, rosehip oil, hydroxyprolisilane C, and Centella asiatica triterpenes. In two published studies, applying hyaluronic acid to early stretch marks made them less noticeable.
Choose the Formulation That Aligns With Your Needs and Preferences
With so many stretch mark products available in the market, there's a chance that you will be confused about what to purchase. Even so, always consider which formula is perfect for your skin type.
Opt for a Lightweight Lotion to Prevent That Sticky Feeling
Some lotions tend to be sticky, heavy, or too thick when applied to the skin, especially during the summer season that “malagkit” feeling can be irritating. Thus, it is better to choose a lightweight and non-greasy formula to get rid of that uncomfortable feeling.
Compared to other skincare products, lightweight lotions can be absorbed by the skin quickly because it is mostly composed of water and oil. These lightweight lotions are a good match for those who sweat a lot!
Lotions contain more water, making them more lightweight than creams. They are preferable to use during the day or summertime. When it comes to choosing products to try when experiencing dry skin or itchiness, selecting one that suits your tastes and preferences, such as a product with a desirable texture or smell, is important. Otherwise, you will probably won't even use it, and it will not alleviate your symptoms.
Get a Body Butter to Intensely Moisturize Dry and Flaky Skin
Body butters work best in deeply hydrating dry and flaky skin. It is said to be made of oils and natural butters like shea and cocoa, which makes it thicker than body lotions and creams.
This product is mostly recommended for dry and mature skin types. If you want a product that greatly moisturizes and nourishes the skin, try out body butter for intense hydration.
As someone with dry skin, I prefer moisturizers with a creamy, thicker consistency, such as body butters. Body butters contain higher concentrations of ingredients, such as shea and cocoa butter, and are ideal for those with dry and flaky skin. It is also a great choice to use before bedtime or in cold/temperate areas.
Body Oils for Those Who Prefer Natural Products
Body oils typically consist of plant-based oils, meaning there are no added preservatives. There are organic oil products consisting of ingredients like argan oil and almond oil that can lighten stretch marks.
In addition, it is said that body oils effectively lock in moisture on the skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, be mindful of some essential oils that may cause irritation.
Oils make for a good way of sealing in moisture and keeping the skin hydrated throughout the day. Personally, oils are a good pick.
Hypoallergenic Products Are Recommended for Pregnant Women
It is important to check the ingredients carefully as the skin becomes more sensitive during pregnancy. Some products may contain ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions. To be sure, use stretch marks cream free of parabens, artificial fragrances, mineral oils, and phthalates.
Additionally, avoid skincare ingredients like retinoids, retinol, and tretinoin during pregnancy. Make it a habit to take a closer look at the ingredients label to prevent harmful ingredients. Better yet, consult your doctor about a stretch mark product before using it.
When one gets pregnant, they may notice a few changes in their skin, such as a sudden increase in pigmentation, oiliness in areas of the face, dryness in the extremities, and sometimes, they become more sensitive to products and ingredients that they were able to tolerate in the past.
This is why I tell my pregnant patients to be careful in choosing products that they use, I advise them to only put on products or ingredients that they need and to minimize using those containing many ingredients. I also let them know of what ingredients to avoid such as hydroquinone and retinoids.
10 Best Anti-Stretch Mark Products to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Formulation | Best Used for | Key Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Bio-Oil Body Oil | | Infused With Vitamins and Plant Extracts to Improve the Appearance of Stretch Marks and Scars | Body Oil | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Calendula Oil, Lavender Oil, Rosemary Oil, Chamomile Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil | 60 mL | |
2 | Palmer’s Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks | | Prevent the Formation of Stretch Marks With Pure Cocoa and Shea Butter | Body Lotion | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | Pure Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Argan Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Collagen, Elastin, Lutein, Centella asiatica Extract, Betula alba Bark Extract, Boswellia serrata Extract | 250 mL | |
3 | Clarins Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert | | Enhance Skin Firmness and Elasticity With PhytoStretchComplex | Cream | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | PhytoStretch Complex (Organic Green Banana Extract, Centella Asiatica), Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Hazelnut Oil, Dimethicone, Asiaticoside, Glycerin | 175 mL | |
4 | Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter | | Moisturizing Belly Butter With Shea, Cocoa, and Jojoba | Cream | Stomach | Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Butter, Vitamin E, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cera Alba | 185 g | |
5 | Mama's Choice Stretch Mark Cream | | Deeply Penetrates the Skin to Tackle Stretch Marks | Cream | Breasts, Stomach, Hips | Glycerin, Lipobelle Soyaglycone, Aloe vera, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, Olive Oil | 100 mL | |
6 | Mustela Stretch Marks Cream | | A Safe, Plant-Based Stretch Mark Cream for Mother and Baby | Cream | Breasts, Stomach, Hips | Avocado Oil, Avocado Peptides, Maracuja Oil, Shea Butter, Galactoarabinan, Glycerin, Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 | 250 mL | |
7 | L'Occitane Almond Supple Skin Body Oil | | Non-greasy Almond Oil With a Delightful Scent for Smoother Skin | Body Oil | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | Sweet Almond Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Camelina sativa Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil | 100 mL | |
8 | Sanosan Mama Anti Stretch Mark Cream | | With Collagen Elastin Complex for Softer and Firmer Skin | Cream | Breasts, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | Collagen-Elastin Complex, Jojoba Seed Oil, Citronellol, Sour Tea Flower Extract | 200 mL | |
9 | Sebamed Anti-Stretch Mark Cream | | A Soothing Anti-stretch Mark Cream With Avocado Oil and Shea Butter | Cream | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | Avocado Oil, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Shea Butter, Centella asiatica Extract, Sodium Lactate, Citric Acid | 200 mL | |
10 | Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy | | Contains Nourishing Botanical Ingredients for Scar and Stretch Mark Improvement | Cream | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks | Allium Cepae (Onion) Bulb Extract, Centella asiatica Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Hyaluronic Acid | 150 g | |
Infused With Vitamins and Plant Extracts to Improve the Appearance of Stretch Marks and Scars
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil is a remarkable solution that improves the appearance of scars and stretch marks. This product boasts a lightweight formulation suitable for application on both the face and body, catering to all skin types. Crafted from a blend of vitamins and botanical extracts, including calendula oil, lavender oil, rosemary oil, and chamomile oil, this oil provides comprehensive skin benefits.
Its versatility extends beyond scar and stretch mark reduction, as it also effectively hydrates the skin while diminishing the appearance of marks resulting from surgery, injuries, acne, the natural aging process, and pregnancy. Users praise its remarkable efficacy in reducing the visibility of scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin tone. In addition to these benefits, Bio-Oil leaves their skin smoother and deeply hydrated.
| Formulation | Body Oil |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Calendula Oil, Lavender Oil, Rosemary Oil, Chamomile Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil |
| Net Weight | 60 mL |
Prevent the Formation of Stretch Marks With Pure Cocoa and Shea Butter
This lotion boasts a clean formula free from harmful ingredients like mineral oils, parabens, and phthalates. Plus, it is hypoallergenic, making it safe for sensitive skin. Users rave about its delightful scent and non-greasy texture. They also noticed remarkable improvements in their skin after just 8 weeks of use.
| Formulation | Body Lotion |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | Pure Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter, Argan Oil, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Collagen, Elastin, Lutein, Centella asiatica Extract, Betula alba Bark Extract, Boswellia serrata Extract |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
Enhance Skin Firmness and Elasticity With PhytoStretchComplex
This cream consistently replenishes the lost glycerin and oils while soothing and firming up the skin, thanks to the addition of glycyrrhetinic acid and hazelnut oil. Suitable for all skin types, it has earned high recommendations from expectant mothers. Users praise it, highlighting its non-greasy texture, rapid absorption, and impressive ability to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy while visibly diminishing the appearance of existing ones.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | PhytoStretch Complex (Organic Green Banana Extract, Centella Asiatica), Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Hazelnut Oil, Dimethicone, Asiaticoside, Glycerin |
| Net Weight | 175 mL |
Moisturizing Belly Butter With Shea, Cocoa, and Jojoba
Enriched with a combination of shea butter, cocoa butter, and jojoba butter, Mama Bee Belly Butter pampers the growing belly with natural ingredients. With a 99% natural and fragrance-free formulation, this product is safe during pregnancy. Users praise this belly butter for its remarkable moisturizing and soothing properties.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Stomach |
| Key Ingredients | Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Jojoba Butter, Vitamin E, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cera Alba |
| Net Weight | 185 g |
Deeply Penetrates the Skin to Tackle Stretch Marks
Plus, it's quickly absorbed by the skin without the greasy feeling. Expecting and postpartum mothers can trust its safety and efficacy, as it's been tested by dermatologists. The cream is clinically proven to firm up the skin, and some users noted its effectiveness in repairing early pregnancy stretch marks.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Stomach, Hips |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Lipobelle Soyaglycone, Aloe vera, Jojoba Oil, Shea Butter, Olive Oil |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
A Safe, Plant-Based Stretch Mark Cream for Mother and Baby
It also contains plant-based compounds such as avocado peptides, shea butter, and galactoarabinan to promote collagen production and reinforce skin elasticity. Users praise this cream for its smooth and fast absorption, minimal fragrance, and remarkable ability to leave the skin feeling soft.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Stomach, Hips |
| Key Ingredients | Avocado Oil, Avocado Peptides, Maracuja Oil, Shea Butter, Galactoarabinan, Glycerin, Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 |
| Net Weight | 250 mL |
Non-greasy Almond Oil With a Delightful Scent for Smoother Skin
On top of that, it protects the skin from UV rays and other environmental stressors. Users love its quick absorption feature and enchanting scent. While some might consider it an investment due to its price point, the undeniable quality of this product ensures that every peso spent is well worth it.
| Formulation | Body Oil |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | Sweet Almond Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Camelina sativa Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
With Collagen Elastin Complex for Softer and Firmer Skin
With its unique collagen-elastin complex, it is suitable for use during pregnancy and is designed to keep the skin supple to prevent the formation of stretch marks. Users attest to its effectiveness in diminishing the appearance of stretch marks and helping maintain a nourished, soft, and smooth complexion.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | Collagen-Elastin Complex, Jojoba Seed Oil, Citronellol, Sour Tea Flower Extract |
| Net Weight | 200 mL |
A Soothing Anti-stretch Mark Cream With Avocado Oil and Shea Butter
It is also gluten, nickel, lanolin, talc, paraben, and preservative-free and has a pH of 5.5, making it suitable for all skin types. However, individual results may vary, with some users finding it effective in soothing and cooling their skin while others not experiencing the same level of improvement.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | Avocado Oil, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Shea Butter, Centella asiatica Extract, Sodium Lactate, Citric Acid |
| Net Weight | 200 mL |
Contains Nourishing Botanical Ingredients for Scar and Stretch Mark Improvement
It is paraben-free as well, making it safe to use during pregnancy, beginning in the second trimester. The cream's active ingredient is Allium Cepa (Onion) Bulb Extract, which has been shown to improve the cosmetic appearance of postsurgical scars and stretch marks. Users praise that the cream spreads effortlessly, absorbs effectively, has a pleasant fragrance, and is reasonably priced.
| Formulation | Cream |
|---|---|
| Best Used for | Breasts, Shoulders, Stomach, Hips, Buttocks |
| Key Ingredients | Allium Cepae (Onion) Bulb Extract, Centella asiatica Leaf Extract, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Net Weight | 150 g |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas
Dermatologists say that creams, lotions, and oils cannot miraculously remove stretch marks, so we're sure that you have more questions in mind. Below, Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas gives us some clarifications.
Can Stretch Marks Be Permanently Removed?
Just like any scar, there are no treatments available that can erase or permanently remove stretch marks. Published data have shown modest results at best, improving the appearance but not eliminating them. Also, stretch marks fade and may improve with time, even if no treatment is employed.
What’s the Difference Between Red Stretch Marks and White Stretch Marks?
When stretch marks first appear, they can be raised and itchy and are pinkish to violaceous or reddish-brown to dark brown in color and are called striae rubra. After a few months to years, they fade and become whitish/silvery in color (striae alba), wrinkly, and astrophic/depressed.
Can You Get Stretch Marks From Scratching the Skin?
Stretch marks can sometimes be due to mechanical stress especially in skin types prone to developing them, but regular, normal scratching won't lead to stretch marks.
More Skincare Products to Prevent Stretch Marks
If you're on the lookout for more products to prevent stretch marks, we're here to help! Check out these buying guides to achieve those skincare goals. Happy shopping!
Author: Bettina Tan
Re-editors: Issa H., Samantha Tidalgo
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Anti-Stretch Mark Products
No. 1: Bio-Oil｜Body Oil
No. 2: Palmer’s ｜Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks
No. 3: Clarins｜Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert
No. 4: Burt's Bees｜Mama Bee Belly Butter
No. 5: Mama's Choice｜Stretch Mark Cream
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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