Best Belly Butter for Pregnancy: 6 Top Picks Compared

Reviewed by: The Clinical Team at A to Zen Therapies

Pregnancy belly butters, creams and serums may help moisturise dry, stretching skin, although no topical product can guarantee that stretch marks will be prevented.

Quick Answer

The best belly butter for pregnancy should moisturise dry, stretching skin, feel comfortable enough for consistent use and contain ingredients considered appropriate during pregnancy.

Some research suggests that topical products containing ingredients such as Centella asiatica or hyaluronic acid may have potential benefits for stretch mark prevention, but the overall evidence remains limited. Genetics, hormonal changes, skin characteristics and the amount and speed of skin stretching can all influence whether stretch marks develop.

Our six picks include products across different price ranges and formula types, from rich

drugstore belly butters to lightweight serums and premium pregnancy skincare.

Key Takeaways

✔ Belly butters can help moisturise dry, itchy or tight-feeling skin during pregnancy.

✔ No topical skincare product can guarantee that pregnancy stretch marks will be prevented.

✔ Some evidence suggests Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid may have potential benefits for reducing the likelihood or severity of stretch marks.

✔ Pregnancy skincare should be selected carefully because some active ingredients, including topical retinoids, are generally avoided during pregnancy.

✔ Texture matters because the most useful moisturiser is often one you are comfortable applying consistently.

✔ Expensive products are not automatically more effective than affordable alternatives.

Table of Contents

1. Why Does Skin Change During Pregnancy?

2. Do Belly Butters Really Prevent Stretch Marks?

3. What Ingredients Should You Look For?

4. How We Selected the Best Pregnancy Belly Products

5. 6 Best Belly Butters for Pregnancy

6. Belly Butter vs Cream vs Serum vs Oil

7. Pregnancy Belly Butter Buyer's Guide

8. Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

9. How to Apply Belly Butter

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does Skin Change During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy causes significant physical and hormonal changes throughout the body, including changes to the skin.

As the abdomen expands to accommodate a growing baby, the skin stretches considerably.

Stretch marks, medically known as striae gravidarum when they occur during pregnancy, may develop as the skin undergoes these changes.

They commonly appear on areas including the:

• Abdomen.

• Breasts.

• Thighs.

• Hips.

• Buttocks.

New stretch marks may initially appear red, purple, pink or darker than the surrounding skin, depending on skin tone. Over time, they typically become lighter and less noticeable.

Dryness, tightness and itching may also occur as the skin stretches.

Using a moisturising product such as a belly butter, cream, serum or oil may help improve skin hydration and relieve some of this discomfort.

However, it is important to distinguish between keeping skin moisturised and preventing stretch marks.

These are not necessarily the same thing.

Stretch marks are influenced by multiple factors. Pregnancy stretch marks cannot always be prevented. Genetics, hormonal influences, age, skin characteristics and the extent of skin stretching may all contribute to their development. Although moisturisers can improve skin comfort, evidence supporting many products marketed specifically for stretch mark prevention remains limited.

Do Belly Butters Really Prevent Stretch Marks?

Many products marketed during pregnancy promise to prevent or reduce stretch marks.

Unfortunately, the evidence is not as straightforward as the advertising often suggests.

Traditional ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter and oils can be excellent moisturisers. They may help relieve dryness, itching and tightness as the abdomen expands.

However, moisturising the skin does not necessarily mean that a product will prevent stretch marks.

Research examining topical treatments for stretch mark prevention has produced mixed results, and no cream, butter, serum or oil can guarantee that stretch marks will not develop.

Some ingredients have attracted greater scientific interest than others.

For example, research has explored formulations containing Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid for their potential role in supporting skin hydration and reducing the development of stretch marks.

However, differences between studies and formulations mean that stronger evidence is still needed.

For pregnant women, a realistic goal may therefore be to choose a product that:

• Maintains skin hydration.

• Relieves dryness and discomfort.

• Feels pleasant enough for consistent application.

• Contains ingredients considered appropriate during pregnancy.

• Fits comfortably within the household budget.

Clinical Insight

Be cautious with guaranteed prevention claims

No pregnancy skincare product can guarantee that you will avoid stretch marks. Products promising complete prevention or dramatic removal should therefore be approached cautiously. Evidence-based skincare guidance should distinguish between improving hydration and proving that a product prevents stretch marks.

Belly butters and pregnancy moisturisers can improve skin hydration and comfort, but evidence supporting complete stretch mark prevention remains limited.

What Ingredients Should You Look For?

The ingredients inside a pregnancy skincare product matter more than whether the packaging describes it as a butter, cream, oil or serum.

Several ingredients commonly appear in products marketed for dry and stretching skin.

Centella Asiatica

Centella asiatica, sometimes known as gotu kola, is a botanical ingredient used in a variety of skincare formulations.

Some research has suggested that products containing Centella asiatica may help reduce the development or severity of stretch marks.

However, not every product containing the ingredient will necessarily produce the same

results.

The overall formulation, concentration and consistency of use may all influence outcomes.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is widely used in skincare because of its ability to attract and retain water.

This makes it particularly useful for supporting skin hydration.

Some evidence suggests that formulations containing hyaluronic acid may have potential benefits for stretch marks, although further high-quality research is needed.

Shea Butter and Cocoa Butter

Shea butter and cocoa butter are commonly used in pregnancy skincare.

Both act primarily as moisturising and emollient ingredients that can help soften dry skin and reduce feelings of tightness.

However, clinical evidence that cocoa butter alone prevents pregnancy stretch marks is limited.

Plant Oils

Products may also contain oils such as:

• Jojoba oil.

• Coconut oil.

• Avocado oil.

• Borage seed oil.

These ingredients may help soften the skin and reduce moisture loss.

Again, hydration benefits should not automatically be interpreted as evidence of stretch mark prevention.

How We Selected the Best Pregnancy Belly Products

Choosing the best belly butter for pregnancy requires looking beyond advertising claims and five-star ratings.

For this guide, we considered several factors.

Evidence Behind the Ingredients

We prioritised products containing ingredients that have been studied for skin hydration or stretch marks while recognising that the overall scientific evidence remains limited.

Pregnancy Considerations

We considered whether formulations contained ingredients generally advised against during pregnancy, including topical retinoids.

Pregnant women should speak with their doctor, midwife or another qualified healthcare professional if they are uncertain whether a skincare ingredient is appropriate.

Formula and Texture

A product must be comfortable enough to use consistently.

Some people prefer rich belly butters, while others find lightweight creams or serums easier to incorporate into their daily routine.

Consumer Experience

Customer reviews can provide useful information about factors such as:

• Texture.

• Fragrance.

• Packaging.

• Absorption.

• Ease of application.

However, individual reviews cannot establish whether a product clinically prevents stretch marks.

Price and Value

The products included in this guide cover different price points.

A higher price does not necessarily indicate better results, so we considered the overall formulation and user experience rather than price alone.

6 Best Belly Butters for Pregnancy

After comparing popular pregnancy skincare products across different price ranges, we selected six options worth considering.

It is important to note that individual results vary, and inclusion in this guide does not mean that a product can guarantee stretch mark prevention.

1. 8 Sheep Organics True Belly Serum

Best for: A lightweight formula containing targeted skincare ingredients

8 Sheep Organics True Belly Serum sits at the premium end of the price range.

Unlike traditional thick belly butters, this product uses a lightweight serum format.

The formula contains both Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid, two ingredients that have been investigated for their potential benefits for skin hydration and stretch marks.

For people who dislike the heavier texture of traditional belly butters, a serum may provide a more comfortable alternative for everyday application.

The product is also marketed as certified organic and made in small batches in the United States.

What We Like

• Contains Centella asiatica.

• Contains hyaluronic acid.

• Lightweight texture.

• Organic positioning.

• Money-back guarantee.

What to Consider

The main disadvantage is price.

At approximately $47, this is one of the most expensive products included in our comparison.

It is also important to remember that the presence of promising ingredients does not guarantee that stretch marks will be prevented.

Bottom Line: A premium option for people looking for a lightweight pregnancy skincare product containing two ingredients that have attracted scientific interest for stretch marks and skin hydration.

2. Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter

Best for: Affordable everyday moisturising

Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter is one of the most widely available products in this guide.

Its formula contains moisturising ingredients including shea butter, cocoa butter, jojoba and coconut oil.

These ingredients can help soften dry skin and relieve the tightness that some women experience as the abdomen expands.

The fragrance-free formula may also appeal to people who become more sensitive to strong scents during pregnancy.

What We Like

• Widely available.

• Fragrance-free.

• Contains several moisturising ingredients.

• More affordable than premium formulas.

• Absorbs relatively easily.

What to Consider

Although cocoa butter is commonly marketed for pregnancy stretch marks, research has not established that it reliably prevents their development.

Bottom Line: A practical choice for pregnant women primarily looking for an affordable moisturiser to support dry, stretching skin.

3. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion

Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion is the most affordable option included in this comparison.

The product combines cocoa butter with several other ingredients and is widely available online and in physical stores.

The formula also contains Centella asiatica.

However, determining whether a particular product contains a clinically meaningful concentration of an ingredient is difficult without detailed formulation information.

What We Like

• Affordable.

• Easy to find.

• Contains moisturising ingredients.

• Familiar pregnancy skincare brand.

What to Consider

The formula contains fragrance, which may not suit people with sensitive skin or pregnancy-related scent sensitivity.

Consumers should also be cautious about interpreting manufacturer-funded consumer studies as proof that a product prevents stretch marks.

Bottom Line: An accessible budget option for moisturising stretching skin, although expectations regarding stretch mark prevention should remain realistic.

Pregnancy belly products vary considerably in price, texture and formulation, making individual preferences an important part of choosing a daily moisturiser.

4. Belli Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream

Best for: Those concerned about the appearance of existing stretch marks

Belli Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream sits in the mid-to-premium price range and differs from many pregnancy skincare products because it is marketed not only for prevention but also for reducing the appearance of existing stretch marks.

The formula contains ingredients including darutoside and Regestril, which have been investigated for their potential effects on the appearance of stretch marks.

One feature that distinguishes Belli is the brand's approach to ingredient screening.

According to the manufacturer, formulations are reviewed against published medical literature to identify ingredients associated with potential pregnancy concerns.

However, consumers should still review the current ingredient list carefully.

Some formulations have been reported to contain retinyl palmitate, a vitamin A derivative.

Because topical retinoids and vitamin A derivatives raise safety considerations during pregnancy, anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss uncertain ingredients with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before use.

What We Like

• Designed specifically for stretch mark care.

• Contains targeted skincare ingredients.

• Pregnancy-focused brand.

• Emphasises ingredient screening.

What to Consider

• More expensive than drugstore alternatives.

• Ingredient formulations may change.

• Any product containing a vitamin A derivative warrants additional consideration during pregnancy.

Bottom Line: A targeted stretch mark cream worth researching carefully, but pregnant consumers should always check the current formulation and seek professional advice about ingredients they are unsure about.

5. Mustela Maternity Stretch Marks Cream

Best for: A lightweight pregnancy skincare cream

Mustela is an established maternity and baby skincare brand offering a cream specifically formulated for stretching skin during pregnancy.

The product uses a combination of moisturising and plant-derived ingredients designed to support skin hydration and comfort.

Its formula includes avocado-derived ingredients and other ingredients intended to help maintain skin elasticity as the body changes.

Mustela has also conducted consumer testing on the product. While these results can provide useful information about user experience, manufacturer studies and consumer perception surveys should not be interpreted as definitive evidence that a product prevents stretch marks.

The fragrance-free version may be particularly appealing to people experiencing pregnancy-related nausea or increased sensitivity to scents.

What We Like

• Developed specifically for pregnancy skincare.

• Lightweight cream texture.

• Fragrance-free option available.

• Contains moisturising and plant-derived ingredients.

• Established maternity skincare brand.

What to Consider

• More expensive than many drugstore moisturisers.

• Manufacturer-reported consumer results are not equivalent to independent clinical evidence.

• Individual responses to skincare ingredients vary.

Bottom Line: A practical mid-to-premium option for pregnant women looking for a lightweight moisturising cream from an established maternity skincare brand.

6. Earth Mama Organics Belly Butter

Best for: Those who prioritise organic and cruelty-free skincare

Earth Mama Organics Belly Butter takes a different approach from some of the more clinically focused products in this guide.

The formula relies heavily on moisturising oils and botanical ingredients, including borage seed oil, calendula and rooibos.

Borage seed oil contains gamma-linolenic acid, while calendula is commonly used in skincare products designed to soothe and moisturise dry skin.

The formula has a lighter consistency than some traditional belly butters, which may appeal to people who dislike thick or greasy products.

Earth Mama also places considerable emphasis on ingredient sourcing and third-party certifications.

What We Like

• Contains botanical ingredients.

• Lightweight texture.

• Cruelty-free certification.

• Organic positioning.

• Designed specifically for pregnancy skincare.

What to Consider

• Evidence supporting individual botanical ingredients for pregnancy stretch mark prevention remains limited.

• Scented products may not suit everyone during pregnancy.

• Natural or organic does not automatically mean that a product is more effective or appropriate for every skin type.

Bottom Line: A good option for people who prioritise botanical formulations, ethical certifications and lightweight everyday moisturising.

Comparing the Best Belly Butters for Pregnancy

Product	Best For	Formula Type	Key Consideration
8 Sheep Organics True Belly Serum	Targeted ingredients	Serum	Premium price
Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter	Everyday moisturising	Butter	Limited evidence for stretch mark prevention
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion	Budget-conscious shoppers	Lotion	Contains fragrance
Belli Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream	Existing stretch marks	Cream	Check current ingredient list carefully
Mustela Maternity Stretch Marks Cream	Lightweight daily skincare	Cream	Higher price than drugstore options
Earth Mama Organics Belly Butter	Botanical skincare	Lightweight butter	Limited clinical evidence for stretch mark prevention

Belly Butter vs Cream vs Serum vs Oil

Although many people search for the best belly butter for pregnancy, traditional butters are only one of several skincare formats available.

The best choice depends on your skin, preferences and the type of product you are comfortable applying consistently.

Belly Butters

Belly butters typically have thick, rich formulas containing ingredients such as shea butter or cocoa butter.

Their primary benefit is moisturisation.

Rich formulas can help reduce dryness and tightness while leaving a protective layer on the skin.

However, a thicker product should not automatically be considered more effective at preventing stretch marks.

Creams

Creams provide a middle ground between heavy butters and lightweight serums.

They are often easy to apply, absorb relatively quickly and provide everyday moisturisation.

For many people, creams offer the most convenient option for regular use.

Serums

Serums typically have lighter formulations and may contain targeted skincare ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.

However, claims that a serum can automatically reach the precise skin layer where stretch marks develop simply because it is lightweight should be treated cautiously. Skin penetration depends on the formulation and properties of individual ingredients, not just whether a product is labelled a serum.

Oils

Body oils can help soften the skin and reduce moisture loss.

Some people enjoy using oils for gentle abdominal massage, while others layer them with moisturising creams.

However, oils should not be assumed to prevent stretch marks simply because they improve skin softness.

Ultimately, the ingredients, overall formulation, pregnancy suitability and consistency of use matter more than the name printed on the packaging.

The Best Pregnancy Belly Products Explained

Belly butters, creams, serums and oils offer different textures and skincare benefits during pregnancy. Choosing the right product depends on individual skin needs, ingredient preferences and consistency of use.

Pregnancy Belly Butter Buyer's Guide

With so many products competing for attention, choosing the best belly butter for pregnancy can be confusing.

Rather than relying entirely on marketing claims, consider the following factors.

Evidence Behind the Ingredients

Look carefully at the ingredients highlighted by the manufacturer.

Some ingredients, including Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid, have been investigated for their potential benefits for skin hydration and stretch marks.

However, the presence of a studied ingredient does not prove that every product containing it will produce the same outcome.

Concentration, formulation and application methods may all influence results.

Pregnancy-Appropriate Formulation

Pregnancy can change how the skin responds to skincare products.

Some ingredients generally used outside pregnancy may not be recommended during this period.

Check ingredient lists carefully and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional if you are uncertain about a product.

Texture and Consistency

Think realistically about what you will enjoy applying every day.

A premium product offers little value if you dislike the texture, scent or application experience enough to stop using it.

Some people prefer rich belly butters, while others find lightweight creams and serums more convenient.

Fragrance

Pregnancy can increase sensitivity to smells.

Fragrance-free products may be preferable if scents trigger nausea, headaches or skin irritation.

Sensitive Skin

Patch testing a new product may be sensible, particularly for people with sensitive or reactive skin.

Stop using a product and seek appropriate advice if you develop significant irritation or an allergic reaction.

Independent Testing and Certifications

Third-party certifications can provide useful information about factors such as ingredient standards, organic claims or cruelty-free practices.

However, certifications do not necessarily prove that a product prevents stretch marks.

Price and Value

An expensive product is not automatically more effective.

If you're preparing for birth, it can also be helpful to think beyond pregnancy skincare. Many parents choose to prepare a C-section recovery kit containing practical postpartum essentials such as comfortable clothing, supportive underwear, scar-care products and other recovery items recommended by their healthcare team, particularly if a planned or possible Caesarean birth is anticipated. 

Consider:

• How much product you receive.

• How frequently it needs to be applied.

• Whether you enjoy using it.

• The evidence supporting its ingredients.

• Whether the product fits comfortably within your budget.

Value matters more than price alone.

Checking ingredients, texture, fragrance and pregnancy suitability can help you choose a skincare product that fits your individual needs.

Ingredients to Avoid or Discuss With Your Healthcare Professional During Pregnancy

Pregnancy skincare advice should be based on evidence rather than fear.

Some ingredients are generally avoided during pregnancy, while evidence for others is less clear.

Topical Retinoids

Topical retinoids include ingredients such as:

• Tretinoin.

• Adapalene.

• Tazarotene.

• Retinol.

• Retinaldehyde.

Healthcare organisations generally recommend avoiding topical retinoids during pregnancy as a precaution.

If you discover that you have used a retinoid-containing skincare product while pregnant, speak with your healthcare professional for personalised advice.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening ingredient with relatively high systemic absorption compared with many topical skincare ingredients.

Because pregnancy safety data is limited, healthcare professionals commonly recommend avoiding its use during pregnancy.

Ingredients That Irritate Your Skin

Pregnancy can sometimes make skin more sensitive.

Fragrances, essential oils and other ingredients may cause irritation in some individuals, although this does not mean that all fragranced products or essential oils are inherently unsafe during pregnancy.

Stop using products that cause significant irritation and seek medical advice for persistent or severe reactions.

How to Apply Belly Butter During Pregnancy

There is no scientifically established application routine that guarantees stretch mark prevention.

However, regular moisturising can help support dry or tight-feeling skin.

A simple routine may include:

1. Apply the product according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Use it on clean skin.

3. Gently massage the product across the abdomen.

4. Allow it to absorb before getting dressed.

5. Apply to other areas experiencing dryness or stretching when appropriate.

6. Stop using the product if significant irritation develops.

Some products recommend application once or twice daily.

Following the instructions provided for your chosen product is generally preferable to assuming that applying larger quantities will produce better results.

When Should You Start Using Belly Butter During Pregnancy?

There is no specific stage of pregnancy when everyone needs to begin using a belly butter.

Some people begin moisturising early in pregnancy, while others introduce a product when their skin starts feeling dry, itchy or tight.

If you enjoy using a pregnancy moisturiser, beginning earlier can help establish a consistent skincare routine.

However, applying a belly butter from the first trimester does not guarantee that stretch marks will be prevented.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do belly butters actually prevent pregnancy stretch marks?

No belly butter can guarantee stretch mark prevention. Some products contain ingredients that have been studied for their potential benefits, but genetics, hormonal changes and the extent of skin stretching also influence whether stretch marks develop.

What is the best belly butter for pregnancy?

The best product depends on individual priorities. Some people prefer affordable

moisturisers such as Burt's Bees or Palmer's, while others look for targeted ingredients found in products such as 8 Sheep Organics True Belly Serum. Consider ingredients, texture, fragrance, pregnancy suitability and budget before choosing.

Is cocoa butter good for pregnancy stretch marks?

Cocoa butter can be an effective moisturising ingredient that helps soften dry skin. However, research has not established that cocoa butter reliably prevents pregnancy stretch marks.

When should I start applying belly butter?

You can introduce a pregnancy moisturiser whenever you experience dryness or want to establish a regular skincare routine. Starting early does not guarantee stretch mark prevention.

How often should I use belly butter?

Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Many moisturisers are applied once or twice daily, although recommendations vary between products.

Can I use regular body moisturiser during pregnancy?

Many standard moisturisers may be suitable during pregnancy. Check the ingredients and speak with your healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific active ingredients.

Are natural pregnancy skincare products always safer?

No. “Natural” does not automatically mean safer, more effective or less likely to cause irritation. Products should be evaluated according to their specific ingredients and formulation.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best belly butter for pregnancy is ultimately about finding a product that supports skin comfort, fits your preferences and contains ingredients you feel comfortable using consistently.

Because quality skincare products are both practical and thoughtful, pregnancy belly butters are also a popular choice among pregnancy gifts for expectant parents looking to support comfort and self-care throughout pregnancy.

Belly butters, creams, oils and serums can all help moisturise dry or tight-feeling skin as the body changes during pregnancy.

However, expectations should remain realistic.

No topical product can guarantee that stretch marks will be prevented, and expensive formulas are not automatically more effective than affordable alternatives.

Products containing ingredients such as Centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid may be worth considering because they have attracted scientific interest, although more research is needed.

Most importantly, choose skincare products according to your individual needs, check ingredient lists carefully and seek professional advice when you are uncertain about pregnancy safety.

Stretch marks are an extremely common part of pregnancy, and developing them does not mean that you failed to care for your skin correctly.

For women who remain concerned about loose skin or persistent stretch marks after pregnancy, some may later explore options such as a mommy makeover. However, these surgical procedures are intended for the post-pregnancy period and should only be considered after appropriate recovery, ideally following consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.

Continue Exploring Pregnancy & Postnatal Health

Explore our Pregnancy & Postnatal Hub for more evidence-informed guidance on pregnancy wellbeing, skincare, nutrition, physical changes and preparing for life after birth.

Editorial Policy

At A to Zen Therapies, we aim to provide clear, evidence-informed health information that helps readers make informed decisions about pregnancy and wellbeing. Our content is educational and should not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from qualified healthcare professionals. Articles are developed according to our Editorial Policy.

References

1. Brennan M, Young G, Devane D. Topical Preparations for Preventing Stretch Marks in Pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2012;11:CD000066. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10001689/ — A high-quality systematic review that found limited evidence to support the effectiveness of topical products in preventing pregnancy stretch marks and highlighted the need for further robust clinical research.

2. American Pregnancy Association. What Are Pregnancy Stretch Marks? Available at: https://americanpregnancy.org/postpartum/what-are-pregnancy-stretch-marks/ — Explains why stretch marks develop during pregnancy, common risk factors, and practical advice on skincare, hydration and managing skin changes.

3. Osman H, Usta IM, Rubeiz N, et al. Cocoa Butter Lotion for Prevention of Striae Gravidarum: A Double-Blind, Randomized and Placebo-Controlled Trial. BJOG. 2008. Available through: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1913631/ — Examines the effectiveness of cocoa butter lotion for preventing pregnancy stretch marks and found no significant benefit compared with placebo, reinforcing that moisturising alone may not prevent striae.

4. MDPI Cosmetics. Topical Treatments for Stretch Marks: Current Evidence and Clinical Perspectives. Cosmetics. 2024;11(1):15. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/11/1/15 — Reviews commonly used topical ingredients, including Centella asiatica, hyaluronic acid, botanical extracts and moisturisers, discussing their proposed mechanisms, safety and the current evidence supporting their use for stretch marks.

5. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Current Evidence for the Prevention and Treatment of Stretch Marks: A Review. Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00266-024-03911-8 — Summarises contemporary research on stretch mark prevention and treatment, including topical skincare, procedural therapies and emerging approaches, while emphasising that high-quality evidence remains limited for many commercially available products.