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Stretch marks in pregnancy: causes, prevention and care

Why stretch marks appear in pregnancy, when they start, what actually helps, which creams are safe, and how they fade after birth.

By the Prego team · Updated · 3 min read · How we create content

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Up to 9 in 10 pregnant people get stretch marks (striae gravidarum). They are harmless, very common and nothing to be ashamed of. They usually fade a lot after birth.

Why do stretch marks happen?

Your skin stretches fast as your belly, breasts, hips and thighs grow. Pregnancy hormones also change the collagen and elastic fibers in your skin, making them easier to tear beneath the surface. The result is lines that start pink, red, purple or dark brown, depending on your skin tone.

You are more likely to get them if your mother or sister did, if you are younger, if you are carrying twins or a larger baby, or if you gain weight quickly.

When do stretch marks start?

They most often appear in the second half of pregnancy, from around week 24, though some people notice them earlier. The skin may feel itchy as it stretches.

Can you prevent stretch marks?

Honestly, there is no proven way to prevent them, because genetics play a big role. But some things may help your skin and make you more comfortable:

  • Moisturize daily. Massaging a rich cream, oil or body butter into your belly, hips, thighs and breasts keeps skin supple and eases itching. Some studies suggest massage itself may help.
  • Gain weight steadily, within the range for your BMI. See our pregnancy weight gain guide.
  • Stay hydrated and eat a varied diet with protein, vitamin C and zinc, which support healthy skin.

The Prego app includes a daily stretch-mark cream reminder, because the hardest part is remembering to do it every day.

Which creams are safe in pregnancy?

Most simple moisturizers are fine, such as cocoa butter, shea butter, almond oil, coconut oil and fragrance-free lotions. Avoid products containing retinoids (retinol, tretinoin) in pregnancy, as they aren't considered safe. Check with your provider or pharmacist before using any medicated cream.

Itchy belly: when to get it checked

Mild itching as your skin stretches is normal. But intense itching, especially on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet and worse at night, can be a sign of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, a liver condition that needs treatment. Tell your provider straight away.

Do stretch marks go away after pregnancy?

They don't disappear completely, but they usually fade to faint silvery or pale lines within 6 to 12 months of giving birth. If they bother you, treatments such as prescription creams, microneedling and laser can help them fade further after you have finished breastfeeding. A dermatologist can advise.

Frequently asked questions

Does cocoa butter prevent stretch marks?

Research hasn't shown that cocoa butter or any specific cream prevents stretch marks. But moisturizing can relieve itching and dryness, so it is still worth doing if it feels good.

Can I get stretch marks in the first trimester?

It is unusual, but possible, especially on the breasts, which grow early in pregnancy.

Is it safe to use oils on my belly during pregnancy?

Plain oils like almond, coconut or sunflower oil are generally safe on the skin. Avoid essential oils unless your provider says they are fine, and patch test anything new.

Sources

General information only, not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your doctor or midwife.

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