Does Bio-Oil work on stretch marks?

Does Bio-Oil work on stretch marks?

According to some studies, Bio-Oil can be effective in helping to improve the appearance of stretch marks. It is said to take three months before you start noticing a difference, but some people report visible results after four weeks of consistent use.

Bio-Oil's healthcare professionals claim it's product can help reduce the likelihood of stretch mark formation during pregnancy, teenage growth spurts and periods of sudden weight gain. They also claim that it may make existing stretch marks less noticeable.

One study monitored 20 female participants aged between 18-55, all with stretch marks on their abdomen. Each person applied Bio-Oil twice a day for 12 weeks, with assessments conducted at regular intervals. Results showed that 50% of the people recorded an improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks at the eight-week mark - of course, this means 50% did not.¹

Another study involved 38 female participants of varying ethnicities and aged between 18-65, with stretch marks in various places on their bodies - including the tummy, thigh and hips. After two weeks, 95% of subjects noticed a "significant result."¹

How often should you apply Bio-Oil?

Dr Catherine Borysiewicz, consultant dermatologist at Spire Healthcare, recommends applying Bio-Oil twice daily for three months, remaining persistent and patient - rather than expecting results overnight.

What causes stretch marks?

Borysiewicz explains that stretch marks are a result of our skin stretching or shrinking.

"The sudden change to the skin causes the collagen and elastin to rupture, leaving stretch marks as the skin heals," she says. "They appear as red or purple tones when they first appear, fading to white over time."

The severity of stretch marks is affected by several factors, such as genetics and the degree of stress on the skin, as well as elasticity. The level of cortisol in your body might also play a part - this is a steroid hormone that mainly helps to regulate your body's response to stress.

Can you prevent stretch marks?

You cannot prevent stretch marks all of the time, especially during pregnancy. Your body is growing a human and is inevitably going to stretch - that is normal. In fact, stretch marks affect around 8 out of 10 women during pregnancy.

Does Bio-Oil prevent stretch marks during pregnancy?

Borysiewicz says to consider using Bio-Oil as a preventative treatment during pregnancy or at times of rapid growth, such as puberty, weight training, or skin shrinking as a result of weight loss. She adds that the earlier you start using Bio-Oil, the more likely you are to see results. But there is limited evidence to suggest that stretch marks can be prevented with products.

Advice for people struggling with stretch marks

Some people struggle with their body image and self-esteem following the development of stretch marks.

Borysiewicz says: "Remember that your stretch marks tell the story of your life - whether that is becoming an adult or growing a baby. They are nothing to be embarrassed by and are perfectly natural.

Stretch marks are not dangerous and you'd be surprised at how common they are at all stages in life."

Can Bio-Oil have other skin benefits?

As well as claiming to aid with the appearance of stretch marks, Bio-Oil also has potential to reduce the appearance of scars – whether surgical, acne, chickenpox, scratches, or bites.

Bio-Oil can help to plump the skin and reduce fine lines, while also providing hydration thanks to its plant-based oils.

Further reading:

1. Bio-Oil clinical studies.

2. Study on oil and stretch marks.