Do any topical agents help prevent or reduce stretch marks?

Abstract

No topical agent has been proven to prevent or reduce stretch marks. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) show that cocoa butter doesn't prevent stretch marks (strength of recommendation [SOR]: A, 2 RCTs); neither does olive oil (SOR: B, 1 small RCT). A cream containing Centella asiatica extract, vitamin E, and collagen hydrolysates doesn't prevent new stretch marks but might avoid additional stretch marks in women who had already developed them during puberty. Massage with vitamin E ointment alone may reduce the number of stretch marks (SOR: C, 2 small RCTs with methodologic flaws).