Stretch marks are a common part of life, caused by growth spurts, pregnancy, or rapid weight changes. While they’re completely normal, many look to stretch mark creams to reduce their appearance. But with so many options, how do you know what really works?
Ahead, we break down how stretch mark creams help, key ingredients to look for, and the best formulas to try in 2025.
Top Stretch Mark Creams in Singapore
Topicrem Cica+ Concentrated Oil For Stretch Marks And Scars Pregnancy-safe!
If you think getting rid of stretch marks is impossible, think again!
Made with 99.8% natural ingredients like maracuja, sweet almond, and camelina oils, this oil helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks by 91%* and scars by 100%*. Over time, it works to improve their look and texture as well!
Safe for expecting mothers and breastfeeding women, this oil also firms the skin, helping to prevent new marks from forming while soothing any itching or discomfort. Providing up to 24 hours of hydration without leaving a greasy or sticky feel, it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
100%* Reduce scars: *Clinical study under dermatological control on 22 subjects for 28 days.
91%* Reduce stretch marks: *Clinical study under dermatological control on 34 subjects after 56 days.
Topicrem Cica+ Concentrated Oil For Stretch Marks And Scars retails for S$39.25 at GrabtoGlow, Shopee, and Lazada.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil Pregnancy-safe!
A cult classic for a reason, Bio-Oil Skincare Oil has earned its status as the world’s No.1 stretch mark and scar solution – and the numbers don’t lie.
Clinically proven to improve stretch marks in 100%* of test subjects, its lightweight formula features the brand’s signature PurCellin Oil™ for quick absorption minus the greasy feel.
With a blend of soothing plant oils (lavender, chamomile, calendula, and rosemary) and skin-loving vitamins A and E, it’s gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin, safe for pregnancy, and versatile enough to be used on both face and body – even the delicate eye and lip areas.
*Clinical trials for stretch marks were conducted at proDERM Institute for Applied Dermatological Research, Hamburg, Germany in 2010.
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil retails for S$7.05 (25ml), S$15.85 (60ml), S$26.45 (125ml), S$36.55 (200ml) on Bio-Oil’s official Shopee store and official Lazada store.
Palmer’s Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks Pregnancy-safe!
A prime choice for mothers around the world, this option is affordable and perfect for using during and after pregnancy or weight fluctuations.
Infused with collagen and elastin, this lotion helps to increase skin elasticity and prevent or lighten stretch marks. Argan oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter deeply nourish, leaving soft and supple skin.
This lotion can be used in place of your typical body cream. Massage all over the body thrice daily.
Palmer’s Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks retails for S$15 (250ml) and is available on iHerb.
CLARINS Tonic Body Treatment Oil Pregnancy-safe!
This firming body oil is a rich, potent option, infused with 100% pure plant extracts, such as rosemary, geranium, and mint. It firms, tones, and enhances elasticity while combating dryness, making it ideal for reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
For best results, apply the oil on dry or damp skin two to three times a week. It can also be combined with other products to provide an extra boost of moisture and firming benefits.
CLARINS Tonic Body Treatment Oil retails for S$112 and is available on Clarins SG.
Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
An advanced moisturising body lotion with pure retinol, this diminishes wrinkles, leaving softer, firmer skin. Formulated with antioxidants, natural butters, and plant oils, it hydrates without being greasy.
This mid-strength 0.1% retinol treatment blends anti-ageing ingredients into a lightweight lotion that works wonders on developing marks. 100% fragrance-free, clinically proven non-irritating, and cruelty-free, this is a rich option for dry and oily skin.
As this lotion is powered by retinol, do follow up with a sunscreen of SPF30 or higher when applying in the daytime.
Note: This product is not suitable for pregnant mums.
Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment retails for S$49 (118ml) and is available on Paula’s Choice SG.
CLARINS Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert Pregnancy-safe!
Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert promotes skin firmness and elasticity while soothing tightness. Tested and recommended by pregnant women, this cream features a plant-powered ‘mum-friendly’ formula that targets stretch marks with minimal, effective ingredients.
Using an exclusive PhytoStretchComplex that combines centella asiatica and organic green banana extracts, firmer skin can be expected from just weeks of using this. Best applied in circular motions on trouble areas.
CLARINS Body Partner Stretch Mark Expert retails for S$117 (175ml) and is available on Clarins SG.
Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm Pregnancy-safe!
Vegan, cruelty-free, and suitable for all skin types, this gentle lotion melts into skin, deeply nourishing and soothing stretched skin. Infused with plant oils, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, it provides deep hydration and improved elasticity for those trying to prevent stretch mark formation.
Best massaged into skin in the morning and night, stretch-mark solutions don’t get more eco-friendly than this!
Summer Fridays Babymoon Belly Balm retails for S$42.74 (150ml) and is available on Revolve.
ILLIYOON Mild Stretch Mark Cream Pregnancy-safe!
Leave it to Korean brands to come up with an effective solution; Illiyoon’s Stretch Mark Cream is perfect for preventing and treating red stretch marks. Using a patented Stretch Mark Cut formula, this cream is clinically proven to lighten red stretch marks by 93.8% after 12 weeks of use.
Hypoallergenic and free of fragrance, animal products, parabens, and silicone, this cream soothes irritated skin with allantoin and panthenol while strengthening the barrier and providing deep hydration with shea butter.
Bonus: It doesn’t leave a sticky finish, which is perfect for our humid weather.
Illiyoon Mild Stretch Mark Cream retails for S$35.50 (200ml) and is available on Guardian.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum Pregnancy-safe!
Though using a skincare serum intended for the face on stretch marks may seem strange, it’s a solution as effective as any other cream or oil. Hyaluronic Acid is a super hydrator found in our body, establishing hydration, elasticity, and moisture in our skin.
Supporting the skin’s healing by reducing inflammation and boosting collagen production, hyaluronic acid is great for filling in the tears that cause stretch marks, making it a secret weapon of many who’ve conquered their marks.
This serum is a powerful pick, clinically proven to reduce fine lines by 60%. With its plumping effects that rejuvenate the skin from within, this may be the solution you’re looking for to fade prominent stretch marks.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum retails for S$59.80 (30ml) and is available on Watsons.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Pregnancy-safe!
Following up with another popular choice, The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is an effective yet affordable choice for those on a budget. Instantly hydrating and plumping skin, its formula contains five types of hyaluronic acid, locking in moisture and keeping skin supple and smooth.
Vitamin B5 promotes elasticity while eliminating wrinkles and roughness, smoothing out skin with every use. For a lightweight and no-nonsense solution, those wanting to prevent and fade stretch marks can turn to this serum.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 retails for S$36 (60ml) and is available on Sephora.
Differin, Adapalene Gel 0.1 %
This is a highly popular over-the-counter retinoid known for its effectiveness in reducing red stretch marks. It works by promoting the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, which helps firm and smooth out stretch marks over time through collagen remodelling.
However, it’s important to note that Differin may be less effective on mature, white stretch marks.
Previously available only by prescription, this powerful gel can now be found in various stores nationwide. If you’re looking to halt the development of your stretch marks, trying Differin could be a worthwhile option. Apply one a day, in a thin layer on the entire affected area.
Note: This product is not suitable for pregnant mums.
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% retails for S$29.29 (15g) and is available on iHerb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Stretch Marks
What Are Stretch Marks?
Striae, or ‘stretch marks’, appear on the skin as long and narrow streaks. These marks occur in the rapid stretching or shrinking of skin, causing elasticity to break down and subsequent scarring.
Although usually associated with pregnancy, anyone can develop stretch marks. Other common causes include:
- Low collagen levels
- Puberty growth spurts
- Sudden muscle growth
- Sudden weight changes
- Genetics
- Sports and lifestyle
Stretch marks are sorted into two categories:
- Red, purple, pink: Early-stage stretch marks. Vibrant and dark in colour due to inflammation.
- Silver, white: Late-stage stretch marks. Healed and developed past inflammation. Can be harder to treat due to the maturity of scars.
Can You Get Rid of Stretch Marks For Good?
Like other scars, stretch marks may never fully disappear, but they do tend to fade over time. By using specialised products and treatments, you can significantly lighten and improve the appearance of these marks.
Preventive measures are the best approach to any skin issue. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, consistently moisturising problem areas, and eating foods rich in vitamins C, D, and E—as well as zinc—can help improve skin elasticity.
However, some causes, such as genetics, are unavoidable. Therefore, it might be worth trying one of the recommended stretch mark creams before seeking more complex treatments. With consistent application, you can expect to see changes in the appearance of your stretch marks.
How Do Stretch Mark Creams Work?
Stretch mark creams are topical formulations designed to improve the elasticity and texture of the skin. They work by:
- Hydrating the skin: Moisturised skin is more resilient and less prone to tearing.
- Boosting collagen production: Ingredients like peptides and retinoids help repair damaged skin and stimulate collagen renewal.
- Improving skin tone and texture: Brightening agents and exfoliants can fade the colour of newer marks and soften older ones.
While no cream can completely erase stretch marks, the right one can significantly reduce their visibility and prevent new ones from forming.
