The first thing top dermatologists want their patients to know when it comes to finding the best stretch-mark creams is that topical products can’t always erase the marks. And in the end that’s perfectly all right. “Remember that roughly 80% of Americans have stretch marks,” says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in midtown Manhattan. “I like to emphasize this to normalize stretch marks so people don’t feel bad about having them.”

The marks are widespread because they can stem from any number of causes, including pregnancy, rapid weight fluctuations, and hormonal changes. Some stretch marks may require in-office procedures, ranging from microneedling to microdermabrasion and laser therapy, but should one wish to banish any trace of them, there is hope in creams alone. “The best stretch-mark creams may help improve their appearance by hydrating the skin and delivering ingredients that support collagen production, such as peptides and retinoids,” says Sara Hogan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Cosmedica Dermatology.

Vogue’s Favorite Stretch-Mark Creams:

However, she stresses that prevention is key. “These products are most effective when used early, before stretch marks appear or while they are still new—and they require consistent, long-term use over several months for best results,” Dr. Hogan says. And in the process, soft and supple skin is a happy side effect. Ahead, browse the stretch-mark creams dermatologists recommend for pregnancy, post-procedure care, and more.

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Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy

• Why We Love It: “This is one of the top stretch-mark creams on the market,” says Ari S. Hoschander, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York. He notes that the hyaluronic-acid-based formula helps improve skin hydration and elasticity. “I usually recommend it to patients post-surgery because it absorbs quickly and has a lightweight feel that works well during recovery,” he says. What’s more, “it’s one of the few OTC stretch-mark products with any human clinical evidence, albeit limited.”
• Key Ingredients: Dimethicone, cephalin, hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica extract
• Pregnancy Safe: Yes
• Size: 5.29 oz.