Can a modest bottle of Bio-Oil really soften the look of stretch marks and scars? We tested the classic formula for eight weeks to see what changes you can expect, what it cannot do, and how to use it for better results.
Bio-Oil has been a go-to for stretch marks and scars for years. It is affordable, easy to find, and it has a loyal following. But what does it actually change, how quickly, and for whom does it make the most difference? After using Bio-Oil Skincare Oil daily on fresh and older marks, here is what you can expect, plus clear steps to get the best results.
Overview
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil is a lightweight, scented body oil designed to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and uneven tone. The formula centers on emollient and occlusive oils that reduce transepidermal water loss, paired with antioxidants and a low level of vitamin A derivative. The brand’s trademarked “PurCellin Oil” language refers to how the blend spreads and absorbs, not a single listed ingredient. In plain terms, this is a thin, silky oil that leaves skin more supple with a subtle sheen.
What is inside matters for both performance and expectations. The base includes mineral oil and skin-softening esters that give slip without feeling heavy. It also includes tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) and retinyl palmitate (a gentle vitamin A derivative), along with plant extracts and fragrance. That mix helps skin hold onto moisture, which can make lines and striations look smoother. The vitamins and extracts support a healthier barrier and a more even-looking tone over time, but they do not re-knit torn dermal fibers or erase deep texture.
In testing on postpartum stretch marks, weight-change stretch marks on the hips, and a year-old surgical scar, Bio-Oil consistently improved softness and the look of dryness within days. Visible tone blending was gradual, most noticeable between weeks 4 and 8. Texture changes on established stretch marks were mild. Fresh, pink stretch marks and newer scars showed the most visible improvement in color uniformity by week 8.
Who it’s for
Bio-Oil is a good fit if you want a budget-friendly daily oil to hydrate, support a more even look, and soften the appearance of newer stretch marks and scars. It is especially useful during life stages with rapid skin change, such as pregnancy, muscle gain, or weight fluctuation, because daily massage with an emollient oil can help keep skin comfortable and more pliable.
If you have very sensitive skin, fragrance allergies, or a history of reacting to essential oils, proceed with caution. Bio-Oil contains fragrance and botanical extracts that can be irritating for some. Patch test on a small area for several days before applying widely. For acne-prone areas of the body or face, it may be too occlusive and could aggravate breakouts for some users, even though the brand describes it as non-comedogenic.
If your main goal is to reduce the depth or raised texture of long-standing stretch marks or older, thick scars, an oil alone is unlikely to deliver noticeable structural change. In that case, you may need a plan that includes exfoliation, retinoids, silicone for scars, in-office procedures, or time. Bio-Oil can still play a supporting role by improving comfort, softness, and the look of dryness while other treatments do the heavy lifting.
How it feels and performs
Texture: Bio-Oil is a thin, dry-touch oil with very good slip. It spreads easily and massages in without leaving a greasy film if you use a modest amount. A few drops cover a large area, which helps the bottle last. It layers well under body lotions and over lightweight serums.
Scent: It has a distinct, clean floral-fruity fragrance. The scent is noticeable for the first 10 to 15 minutes, then softens. If you are fragrance-sensitive, this is a key consideration.
Absorption and finish: Applied to damp skin after a shower, it absorbs quickly and leaves a soft, satiny finish with a subtle sheen rather than a heavy gloss. On dry skin, it sits on top slightly longer but still settles within a few minutes. Clothes put on after application did not pick up oil stains in testing when we let the skin sit for 3 to 5 minutes first.
Short-term effects: Within the first week, skin looks more supple and less crepey where lines were accentuated by dryness. Stretch marks and scars appear a bit smoother simply because hydrated skin reflects light more evenly. It also reduces itchiness on rapidly stretching skin, which can be a quality-of-life win during pregnancy or weight changes.
Longer-term changes: Over 8 weeks of consistent, twice-daily use, fresh, pink stretch marks lightened modestly and blended better with surrounding skin. Newer, red or pink surgical or injury scars also showed a more even look. Older, silvery stretch marks changed more subtly, mostly in softness and feel rather than a dramatic change in depth. Raised scars tended to soften at the edges but did not flatten significantly. These results align with what you would expect from regular emollient use and gentle massage, plus antioxidants and a mild vitamin A derivative at low levels.
Comfort and layering: Bio-Oil works well as the last step in a body routine to seal moisture. It sits comfortably under sunscreen on exposed areas, though you should allow full absorption before applying SPF. It also pairs nicely with body lotions that contain exfoliating acids or retinoids when staggered by time of day. The oil can help buffer dryness that sometimes comes with those actives.
How to use for best results
For stretch marks:
- Apply a small amount twice daily, morning and night, ideally to slightly damp skin after bathing.
- Use slow, firm, circular massage for at least 1 minute per target area. Gentle mechanical massage helps, and consistency matters more than quantity.
- Give it time. Expect 8 to 12 weeks to judge changes in color and blending. Take well-lit photos every 2 to 4 weeks from the same angle to track gradual progress.
- On newer, pink marks, you are likely to see better improvement in tone than on older, silvery ones. Hydration will help both look smoother, even if deeper texture remains.
For scars:
- Only apply to fully closed, healed skin. Do not use on open wounds.
- Massage a few drops into the scar and the surrounding area twice daily. Gentle pressure and consistent routine are key.
- Support with sun protection on exposed sites. UV darkens scars more than surrounding skin, making them look more prominent.
- If the scar is raised or very firm, consider pairing your routine with silicone sheets or gels as recommended by your healthcare provider. Oils improve comfort and appearance but do not replace proven scar therapies.
Layering tips:
- After a shower, apply a water-based body serum or lotion first, then seal with Bio-Oil. On extra dry days, follow with a fragrance-free cream on top of the oil if you need more cushion.
- If you use retinoid or exfoliating body lotions, apply those at night and use Bio-Oil in the morning. This separates actives from fragrance and helps manage potential irritation.
- On the face, be conservative. If you are acne-prone, patch test along the jaw or a small area of the cheek for a week before broader use.
Safety and timing:
- During pregnancy or nursing, review any new product with your medical provider. Many people use Bio-Oil in pregnancy, but it contains fragrance and a low level of vitamin A derivative. Patch testing is wise.
- If you recently had a procedure or surgery, wait until your clinician confirms the skin is healed before starting massage with any oil.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Light, fast-absorbing oil that makes daily massage easy and mess-free.
- Improves softness and the look of dryness within days, which enhances overall appearance.
- Gradually blends the tone of newer stretch marks and scars with consistent use.
- Affordable and widely available with a little product going a long way.
- Pairs well with body lotions, sunscreens, and other routines without pilling.
- Comforting on itchy, rapidly stretching skin.
Cons
- Contains fragrance and botanical extracts that may irritate sensitive skin.
- Limited impact on the depth or raised texture of older stretch marks and scars.
- Not ideal for acne-prone areas for some users.
- Results require patience and twice-daily consistency for at least 8 weeks.
- Glass-like brightening or dramatic remodeling is not realistic from an oil alone.
Final verdict
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil earns its spot as a dependable, budget-friendly helper for the look and feel of stretch marks and scars. It hydrates quickly, makes daily massage simple, and over a couple of months helps newer marks blend more naturally with surrounding skin. It excels at comfort, tone blending, and softening. Where it falls short is structural change. Deep, older stretch marks and raised scars rarely transform from an oil alone, and fragrance-sensitive users may prefer a gentler, unscented option.
If you set realistic goals and use it consistently, Bio-Oil can be a valuable part of your routine. Think of it as a base layer that improves hydration and appearance while you lean on sunscreen, time, and, if needed, targeted treatments for bigger changes. For the price and ease of use, it is a smart starting point, especially for fresh marks where steady care matters most.
See also
If you want alternatives to Bio-Oil, compare it with other oils for stretch marks that actually help and review our stretch mark care guide for realistic results.
– For rough, bumpy skin that can make marks stand out more, look into these exfoliating body lotions for KP, bumps, and rough patches.
– To pair Bio-Oil with proven actives, you might add a retinol body lotion for smoother arms, legs, and chest to your routine.
– If texture concerns extend beyond stretch marks, explore cellulite creams and treatments worth knowing about.
FAQ
How long does Bio-Oil take to improve the look of stretch marks?
Most people notice softer, better-hydrated skin in a few days and mild blending of pink, newer stretch marks by weeks 4 to 8. Older, silvery marks typically need 8 to 12 weeks for any visible change, which is usually modest and focused on softness and tone rather than depth.
Can Bio-Oil fade old scars, or does it only work on new ones?
It can improve the feel and color uniformity of both, but new scars respond better. On older scars, expect gradual softening at the edges and a more even look with consistent massage. Significant flattening of raised or thick scars is unlikely from Bio-Oil alone.
Is Bio-Oil safe to use during pregnancy?
Many people use Bio-Oil in pregnancy for comfort and hydration. It contains fragrance and a low level of a vitamin A derivative, so patch test first and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Apply to intact skin only, and be consistent with gentle massage rather than heavy pressure.
Can I use Bio-Oil on my face if I am acne-prone?
Some can, but others may find it too occlusive. If you are breakout-prone, patch test along the jawline for a week before wider use. Consider applying it to drier facial zones only or keeping it as a body product if you notice clogged pores.
Should I layer Bio-Oil with retinol or exfoliating body lotions?
Yes, many routines pair well. Use active lotions at night and Bio-Oil in the morning, or apply the lotion first and seal with a small amount of oil once it dries. This helps manage dryness and reduces the chance of compounding irritation from actives and fragrance at the same time.
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