Pregnancy is not the only reason for stretch marks but it is one of the most common. Because the skin is stretched during the gestational period, there is a greater chance that stretch marks will increase.
This is the reason why many pregnant women are looking for effective ways to get rid of stretch marks.
See what products make it to our list of creams that remove stretch marks here in the Philippines.
What causes stretch marks?
The main cause of stretch marks is the tearing of the skin layer called the dermis during times of rapid body growth such as puberty or pregnancy. Rapid weight fluctuations due to pregnancy can also be the reason.
In fact, 90% of pregnant women are prone to having it. Nowadays, many women are proud of what they call "tiger stripes", but for some, it affects their self-confidence.
Preventing the appearance of stretch marks
Luckily, some things can be done to prevent the appearance of stretch marks while pregnant. Here are some tips that you can try:
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Control your weight.
While weight gain is inevitable in pregnancy, rapid weight gain increases the chances of stretch marks. The faster you gain weight and the faster your tummy gets bigger, the more likely it that you will be getting stretch marks. So make sure that you keep your weight under control.
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Stay hydrated.
Drinking enough water helps keep your skin hydrated and soft, and lessens the possibility of stretch marks and skin irritation.
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Include vitamin C in your diet.
Make sure you have your daily dose of Vitamin C. It increases the production of collagen, the nutrient that is responsible for skin elasticity. Ask your OB-Gynecologist for the right amount of vitamin C that you should be taking daily.
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Eat foods rich in zinc.
Another nutrient that is essential to skin health is zinc. It helps reduce inflammation and helps wounds heal quickly. Aside from that, taking zinc in pregnancy may also reduce the risk of preterm births. Some foods that are rich in zinc are fish and nuts. You can also ask your doctor about having zinc in your prenatal vitamin supplements.
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Stop scratching!
Fresh or stretch marks that just appeared may seem itchier than usual. So resist the urge to scratch your tummy. Aside from adding up to the marks and scratches, your skin will get even more irritated. Worse, scratching it, especially with long nails and unclean hands might increase the risk of infection.
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Treat stretch marks as soon as they appear.
For some pregnant women, getting stretch marks is impossible to avoid. But if you can't totally prevent them, you can try to minimize their appearance so they wouldn't be as noticeable in the long run.
Best stretch mark removal creams
Fortunately, the use of stretch mark creams will help to reduce its visibility. Let us help you choose the best cream for you. Based on research, a stretch mark cream should give you benefits such as:
- Hydration and moisturization of the skin to prevent dry skin and the presence of stretch marks
- Skin tightening to restore soft skin
- Ingredients that are safe for you
Here are some of our choices for creams to remove stretch marks that are effective and safe for pregnant and breastfeeding moms. Choose one according to your preference and your budget.
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Aloe Vera Stretch Mark Cream Removal
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Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion
Most trusted
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Bio-Oil Skin Care Oil
Best stretch mark oil
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Mustela Stretch Marks Prevention Cream
Best natural
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Biolane Stretchmarks Cream
Best hypoallergenic
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Clarins Body Partner Stretchmark Expert
Best fast absorbing
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Mama's Choice Stretch Mark Cream
This stretch mark cream is safe, natural, and certified Halal.
Why we like it:
Features we love:
Hydration and moisturization of the skin
- It has aloe vera and shea butter, olive oil and jojoba oil that help keep the skin moisturized and nourished.
Skin tightening
- The main ingredient lipobelle soyaglycone is not only naturally hydrating but also helps in increasing collagen production and skin elasticity.
Ingredients that are safe
- Mama’s Choice Stretch Mark Cream is dermatologically tested in Singapore and hypoallergenic. It is also guaranteed safe as it does not contain parabens, alcohol or any harmful chemicals. Safe for pregnant, newborn, and breastfeeding mother.
How to use:
Apply it to stretch mark-prone areas every morning and evening from the first trimester. It is good to massage around for improved blood flow.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion
This brand is considered a staple when it comes to reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Based on a home trial over 8 weeks including 102 women ages 18-49, Palmer’s was able to record improved skin elasticity for 98% of their participants.
Why we like it:
Palmer’s is approved by dermatologists and has been trusted by a lot of moms for stretch marks. It's specifically made for pregnant women, so you know that it's safe to use. It works well, and it smells really good too!
Features we love:
Hydration and moisturization of the skin
- Cocoa and shea butter are the foundation of this cream. It provides hydration throughout the day and softens the skin while providing a protective moisture barrier to your growing belly.
Skin tightening
- It has Vitamin E which is an effective antioxidant that helps to tighten the skin and repair stretch marks.
Ingredients that are safe
- This has no mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, fragrance allergens, and dyes so it is definitely safe. It is also hypoallergenic and can be used for sensitive skin.
Palmers was also tested by dermatologists making one of, if not the best stretch mark removal cream in the market.
Safe for pregnant moms
How to use:
Apply all over the body or on the affected areas three times a day.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil
Best stretch mark oil
If you're not into creams, we heard this oil also comes highly recommended!
Why we like it:
Okay, technically, it's not a cream. But when it comes to stretch marks, it is impossible not to include Bio-Oil on the list. We are happy that in addition to their stretch mark oil brand, Bio-Oil also has an all-natural option that is just as effective based on studies and clinical trials.
Features we love:
Hydration and moisturization of the skin
- Its main ingredient is PurCellin Oil which ensures your skin gets maximum absorption. It also keeps the skin hydrated.
Ingredients that are safe
- It is recommended by pharmacists and doctors around the world based on clinical trials which have evaluated the use of its oil in stretch mark creams. Safe for pregnant women.
How to use:
While pregnant, apply it at the beginning of the second trimester. Massage around the affected areas twice a day for at least 3 months.
Mustela Stretch Marks Prevention Cream
Best natural
This brand has a proven track record for being safe and gentle on babies. Their stretch mark removal cream is also one of the best in the market.
Why we like it:
Based on a clinical trial under dermatological control, 96% of women who used Mustela Stretch Mark Cream during their pregnancy did not get any stretch marks after.
We love this brand because it is made with plant-based ingredients such as avocado oil and avocado peptides. You can also choose from two available variations - light fragrance and fragrance-free. It contains no harmful chemicals like alcohol or caffeine so it is safe for mother and baby.
Features we love:
Hydration and moisturization of the skin
- It has beeswax and shea butter that help to moisturize and nourish the skin layers so your skin becomes soft and comfortable.
Skin tightening
- Mustela patented the use of avocado peptides to relieve the feeling of stretched skin.
Ingredients that are safe
- It is free of alcohol, SLS, parabens, phthalate, and phenoxyethanol. It is also done to prevent allergic reactions. Safe for pregnant, newborn, and breastfeeding mothers.
How to use:
Use it every morning and evening starting in the first trimester. This can also be used during breastfeeding.
Biolane Stretchmarks Cream
Best hypoallergenic
For those looking for an effective premium stretch mark cream, Biolane Pour Elle Stretch Mark Cream is made with 97% natural ingredients.
Why we like it:
Based on a clinical trial under dermatological control, 96% of women who used Mustela Stretch Mark Cream did not have stretch marks.
We admire this brand because it is made with plant-based ingredients such as avocado oil and avocado peptides. It also has two types with light fragrance and fragrance-free. It has no alcohol or caffeine so it is safe for mother and baby.
Features we love:
Hydration and moisturization of the skin
- Made from hydra-blaine that combines oil and proteins to prevent water loss in the skin and its dryness.
Skin tightening
- It is enhanced with organic argan oil which is rich in essential fatty acids and beta-carotene which prevents constant skin stretch.
Ingredients that are safe
- It is hypoallergenic and tested under dermatological supervision. It also contains no alcohol, soap, parabens, phenoxyethanol and phthalate. Safe for the pregnant, newborn, and breastfeeding mother.
How to use:
Apply two to three times a day at the beginning of pregnancy. Continue to use for three months after giving birth.
Clarins Body Partner Stretchmark Expert
Best fast absorbing
Why we like it:
It is made from minimal ingredients that have been carefully selected to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Despite being cream-based, its lightweight formulation feels like nothing on your skin.
Features we love:
Hydration and moisturization of the skin
- It has hazelnut which helps soothe and nourish the skin.
Skin tightening
- The effective blend of Centella Asiatica and Organic Green Banana extracts helps keep it firm and less saggy.
Ingredients that are safe
- It is odorless and it is colorant-free. Safe for pregnant and newborn mommies.
How to use:
Apply around the thighs, waist, abdomen, and buttocks.
Price Comparison Table
| Brand | Pack size | Price |
| Mama' Choice | 100 ml | Php 491.00 |
| Palmer's | 250 ml | Php 725.00 |
| Bio-Oil | 60 ml | Php 520.00 |
| Mustela | 150 ml | Php 1,540.00 |
| Biolane | 200 ml | Php 990.00 |
| Clarins | 175 ml | Php 2,160.00 |
Just remember to apply early (even before the appearance of stretch marks) and apply generously. If irritation occurs, stop using the product and consult your doctor right away.
Read the Filipino version here!
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