Is vitamin C or E better for stretch marks?
Sarah Smith
Published Jan 06, 2026
Vitamin C is the star of the show when it comes to caring for your stretch marks. But vitamin E deserves an honorable mention too. Dermatologist Dr. Maria Robinson explains that Vitamin C helps to support collagen production (more on that below), while vitamin E works as an antioxidant.
Does vitamin C help stretch marks?
Vitamin C is important to help your skin in the development of collagen. Collagen keeps your skin strong and elastic, as well as reducing the appearance of wrinkles. All which are important for preventing stretch marks. You can find vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables.
Does Vitamin E help stretch marks?
Vitamin E is an antioxidant known for its anti-aging and skin regenerating benefits. It's often used to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars. Combining vitamin E with these essential oils that have other skin-rejuvenating benefits may give your stretch mark treatment regimen a boost.
Does vitamin E darken the skin?
No dear Vitamin E will not darken your skin , it is infact used to treat uneven skin and discolouration. Vitamin E contains alpha-tocopherol. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects your skin from the harmful free radicals. You can try this skin lightening mask by mixing vitamin e with papaya.
Do vitamin E capsules help scars?
Conclusions: This study shows that there is no benefit to the cosmetic outcome of scars by applying vitamin E after skin surgery and that the application of topical vitamin E may actually be detrimental to the cosmetic appearance of a scar.
44 related questions foundWhat vitamin helps stretch marks?
Derived from vitamin A, retinoids — such as tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova, Avita) — that you apply to your skin may improve the appearance of stretch marks less than a few months old.
What is the fastest way to get rid of stretch marks?
- Makeup (concealing): Using makeup is one of the easiest and fastest options to hide stretch marks. ...
- Creams, gels, or lotions: There are many of these on the market, and manufacturers frequently claim that they can remove stretch marks. ...
- Massage: ...
- Topical creams: ...
- Microdermabrasion: ...
- Microneedling: ...
- Laser treatment:
What reduces the appearance of stretch marks?
In two large studies, applying hyaluronic acid to early stretch marks made the stretch marks less noticeable. Tretinoin is a retinoid, which may also make early stretch marks less noticeable. In one study, people who applied this prescription cream every night for 24 weeks had less noticeable stretch marks.
Can hot showers cause stretch marks?
Avoid hot showers and baths
Having a very hot (or very cold) bath or shower dries out your skin. And dry skin's more likely to develop stretch marks. “The moment your skin gets dry, the elastin fibres start breaking down, increasing the chances of stretch marks,” says Dr Haus.
How do you microneedle stretch marks?
Pull your skin taut with one hand and start dermarolling stretch marks with the other. Make sure you go over each area eight to ten times in one direction, and another eight to ten rolls in the opposite direction. Don't overdo it, though.
Do sun beds help stretch marks?
The Myth About Tanning and Stretch Marks
It's a common misconception that tanning in a tanning bed will erase stretch marks. The truth is, nothing can get rid of stretch marks completely. Like any scar, stretch marks are permanent.
Which is the best cream for stretch marks?
Healthline Parenthood's picks of the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy
- Mustela Stretch Marks Cream.
- Earth Mama Belly Butter.
- Glow Organics Belly Butter.
- Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter.
- Bio-Oil Skincare Oil.
- Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks.
- Munchkin Milkmakers All-Natural Belly Balm.
How long does it take for stretch marks to disappear?
Stretch marks often fade over time and become unnoticeable. For women who develop stretch marks in pregnancy, these usually become less noticeable around 6 to 12 months after giving birth. Makeup can be used to conceal stretch marks on more exposed areas of the body while they are more pronounced.
Can Vaseline remove stretch marks?
In addition, to be gentle on the skin, it also helps lock in moisture which in turn can help keep the skin soft and supple. Daily massaging the affected areas with creams or lotions containing petroleum jelly helps promote new tissue growth and break down the bands of collagen that are responsible for stretch marks.
Is pure vitamin E good for your skin?
Vitamin E is most commonly known for its benefits for skin health and appearance. It can be applied topically to your face to reduce inflammation and make your skin look younger. Many people also swear by the effects of topical vitamin E when it's applied to the face overnight.
Do vitamin E capsules work?
Vitamin E supplements may prevent coronary heart disease, support immune function, prevent inflammation, promote eye health, and lower the risk of cancer. However, the research on these benefits is varied, and vitamin E supplementation is not right for everyone.
What does vitamin E do for your skin?
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, helping protect cells from damage throughout your body. It's found in our sebum (skin oil), which creates a natural barrier to keep moisture in your skin. So oilier skin surfaces, like the face, contain greater amounts of vitamin E.
How do celebrities have no stretch marks after pregnancy?
If you've ever wondered why celebs don't have stretch marks, the big secret is lasers and NanaoFractional RF. Stretch marks are formed in the middle layer of the skin, called the dermis, which is the area that determines the shape of the skin.
Can exercising reduce stretch marks?
Stretch marks are essentially scars and exercise cannot repair scar tissue or repair the ruptured collagen and elastin. However, exercise can reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can have a positive effect on your skin.
Can old stretch marks go away?
Stretch marks often begin as red or purple marks, and slowly fade to white or silver over time. The difference in color distinguishes how old the marks are. Though they may never disappear completely, treatment can lighten the color of your marks and shrink them. In other cases, stretch marks fade away on their own.
Which oil is best for removing stretch marks?
Eight best essential oils for stretch marks
- Argan oil. Argan essential oil is a popular natural product for skin and hair care. ...
- Bitter almond oil. ...
- Bitter orange oil. ...
- Lavender oil. ...
- Neroli oil. ...
- Patchouli oil. ...
- Pomegranate oil. ...
- Frankincense essential oil.
Does Bio-Oil prevent stretch marks?
Take care of your skin with Bio-Oil Skincare Oil. Made for all skin types, this skincare oil can be used to help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, scars, and other marks due to surgery, injury, acne, aging, pregnancy, and more.
What reduces the appearance of purple stretch marks?
They aren't dangerous, and although they may first appear dark purple or red, they usually fade over time. If you're interested in products to improve the appearance of stretch marks, consult your dermatologist or doctor.
...
Treating stretch marks
- Retinoid cream. ...
- Microdermabrasion. ...
- Chemical peel. ...
- Light and laser therapies.
Does Moisturiser help stretch marks?
Use a moisturizer
There are no creams or oils proven to prevent stretch marks. However, keeping the skin supple may be helpful for reducing the risk in some people. Moisturizers can often help reduce itching that happens as the skin stretches.
Does microneedling really work for stretch marks?
Microneedling uses a derma roller device that is effective at treating scars, wrinkles, large pores, and stretch marks. You no longer have to conceal your blemishes and marks with loads of makeup because this treatment will improve skin texture and restore the skin's youthful appearance.