Generally okayGeneral guidancePersonal care

Stretch marks and products claiming to prevent them

Stretch marks reflect skin, growth and inherited tendency; no cream can promise prevention, though a simple moisturiser may reduce dryness or itch.

Direct guidance

What to know or do

Check medicated, retinoid, essential-oil or imported products before use and stop anything that irritates the skin. Rapidly spreading rash or severe itch needs assessment rather than another cosmetic product.

What changes the answer

  • The exact ingredient, procedure, body area, amount and frequency
  • Whether treatment is medically needed or can reasonably be postponed
  • Skin damage, infection, fumes, heat, radiation and medicines used with the procedure

General guidance

When to get individual help

This is a general pregnancy baseline, not personal clearance. Change course and ask for advice if symptoms, complications or an individual care plan make the situation different.