Home remedies for stretch marks during pregnancy

Stretch marks are lines that form when skin stretches and its deeper supporting fibres change. They commonly appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, thighs or buttocks during pregnancy. Early marks may look pink, red, purple or darker than nearby skin before gradually becoming paler. They are not caused by poor hygiene, and scratching can make irritated skin more uncomfortable without preventing the marks.

Apply a fragrance-free moisturiser after bathing and whenever the skin feels tight. Use lukewarm water, a mild cleanser and pat the area dry rather than rubbing it. Choose loose, breathable clothing and keep nails short if itching leads to scratching. Avoid unproven essential oils, harsh scrubs and retinoid creams during pregnancy unless a clinician specifically advises otherwise. Procedures such as [Microneedling](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/microneedling/) or [Fractional Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/fractional-laser-treatment/) are usually discussed after pregnancy and breastfeeding, when appropriate.

Contact your maternity or dermatology team if itching becomes intense, spreads widely, disrupts sleep, or comes with a new rash, blisters, yellowing skin or illness. A clinician can check whether the itch is simple stretching or a pregnancy-related skin condition that needs specific care.

Which ingredients in my current cream should I avoid? Is my itching consistent with ordinary stretching, and when would an in-clinic treatment be suitable after delivery?