No product on earth guarantees you won't get them — and honesty about that is a form of respect.
What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks (striae) are a form of scarring that occurs when the skin stretches or shrinks rapidly. The rapid change causes the collagen and elastin in the skin to rupture, and as the skin heals, stretch marks may appear.
They typically start as reddish, purplish, or pink lines and may fade to a lighter, silver-white colour over time. They can appear on the belly, hips, thighs, breasts, upper arms, and lower back.
Why do some people get them and others don't?
Genetics play a significant role. If your mother or close relatives have stretch marks, there's a higher chance you will too. Skin type, the speed of weight changes, and hydration levels also influence whether stretch marks develop and how visible they are.
Pregnancy is one of the most common causes, but stretch marks can also appear during adolescence (when the body grows rapidly), during periods of significant weight gain or loss, or during muscle-building. They are, in short, very common.
Why prevention isn't a guaranteed outcome
Stretch marks form in the dermis — the middle layer of skin below the surface. Most topical creams and oils work on the epidermis (the surface layer). Whether a product can meaningfully influence what happens in the dermis is not established by the available evidence for finished cosmetic products.
This doesn't mean moisturising is pointless. Keeping skin well-hydrated supports its elasticity and may support your comfort during pregnancy. A regular moisturising routine is a good habit. It just isn't a guarantee.
What a good pregnancy skin routine looks like
Consistency matters more than product. Applying a good moisturiser twice daily — morning and night — to your belly, hips, thighs, breasts, and wherever your skin is stretching, keeps the skin supple and comfortable. Drinking enough water, resting, and wearing comfortable clothing all support your skin too.
Stretch marks, if they appear, are a normal record of your body doing something remarkable. They are not a failure, and they are not something to hide.
This article is for general education. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns, please consult your doctor.