Stretch marks can be frustrating, especially when they show up without warning and remain long after your body has changed. They often appear during pregnancy, puberty, or after sudden weight gain, leaving behind lines that are tough to fade.

Many people turn to natural remedies, and olive oil is one of the most commonly suggested options. But does it actually make a difference?

This article explores the common use of olive oil for stretch marks and how it may be used to support skin health.

Stretch marks happen when the skin stretches faster than it can keep up. They can be tough to treat because they form deep within the skin, not just on the surface.

Still, knowing why stretch marks appear can help you find better ways to care for your skin and possibly minimize their appearance over time.

Rapid changes in the body, like during pregnancy, a growth spurt, or sudden weight gain, can cause the skin to stretch too far, too fast. This sudden pull damages the collagen and elastin fibers that support skin elasticity.

Pregnancy stretch marks are especially common on the belly, hips, and breasts as the body changes to support a growing baby. Teens often notice them during puberty when height and muscle mass increase quickly.

When skin stretches, the middle layer (dermis) tears slightly. This causes small scars under the surface that can show up as lines or streaks in pink, purple, or reddish brown, depending on your skin tone and how long you’ve had them.

Over time, these marks may fade but rarely disappear completely. That's what makes them tricky; you're not just dealing with dry skin, but with scar-like changes that are harder to treat.

Natural oils like olive oil, sweet almond oil, and cocoa butter have been used for years in skin care routines. They can help moisturize, protect, and support skin elasticity, especially when the skin is under stress.

Using a body oil regularly can help moisturize the skin and may soothe itchy, sensitive areas. Some people apply a few drops each day during pregnancy or weight changes to help their skin stay soft and hydrated, which may lead to fewer or minimal stretch marks.

Olive oil can moisturize the skin, which may improve the look and feel of stretch marks with regular use, but it will not erase them completely. Some of its natural compounds offer skin-repairing properties.

Still, results vary depending on age, skin type, and how long you’ve had the marks.

Research on olive oil for stretch marks shows mixed results. Some studies suggest it improves skin moisture and may slightly improve the appearance of newer stretch marks, while others show little to no effect.

Still, its moisturizing properties can help soften the skin, making it a useful part of a daily routine, especially during periods of rapid stretching.

Olive oil contains antioxidants like squalene, vitamin E, and polyphenols, which may help support overall skin health. These compounds can contribute to skin hydration, protect the barrier, and support elasticity when used consistently in a moisturizing routine.

When absorbed, these natural compounds help support the skin's barrier and contribute to its overall health.

Most benefits appear in new or pink stretch marks. Once marks turn pale or white, they are considered more permanent.

Olive oil might help minimize older marks by keeping them hydrated and improving the skin’s feel. But it’s not a magic fix—consistent care and time matter more than the quantity of oil used.

The way you use olive oil makes a difference. Applying it with the right timing and technique helps your skin absorb it better.

Use clean hands or a cotton ball, and make sure your skin is slightly damp to lock in more moisture.

Applying olive oil for stretch marks at the right time and with the proper method can help your skin absorb it better. Here's how to do it effectively:

• Warm up a few drops of olive oil between your palms to activate the texture.

• Gently massage the oil into your skin using circular motions to promote absorption.

• Focus on areas where stretch marks are forming or already visible, such as the stomach, thighs, hips, or chest.

• Allow the oil to fully soak in; don’t wipe it off immediately.

• Let it sit on your skin for at least 10 to 15 minutes so it can be better absorbed.

Daily use matters more than occasional use. Apply it once or twice a day, especially after a shower when your pores are open.

Those who are pregnant or actively gaining muscle or weight might benefit from consistent application to help prevent stretch marks from forming in the first place.

To get the most out of olive oil for stretch marks, timing and technique matter—especially during pregnancy or right after a shower. These simple tips can help your skin absorb the oil more effectively:

• Apply olive oil immediately after a warm shower while your skin is still damp to help lock in moisture.

• If you're pregnant, begin using it early in your routine to support skin elasticity as your body changes.

• Use light, circular motions and avoid scrubbing, especially on delicate skin.

• Don’t overdo it—a thin, even layer is enough for most areas.

• When you're in a hurry, putting on a quick, light coat with your fingers still helps keep skin hydrated.

Not all olive oils are the same. For skin care, higher quality usually means better results.

Look for oils that are fresh, cold-pressed, and free from added scents or other ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction.

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the least processed and keeps more nutrients like vitamin E and squalene. These support skin health and help the oil stay moisturizing and effective.

EVOO also has a neutral smell and tends to be gentler on sensitive skin.

Check for terms like “cold-pressed,” “unrefined,” and “organic.” These types hold more of the plant’s natural benefits, unlike highly refined oils that lose nutrients during processing.

Avoid blends or oils mixed with citrus aurantium dulcis or other fragrances if you’re using them on delicate skin.

Choosing a high-quality olive oil is important when using it for stretch marks. Here are simple ways to test the quality at home before adding it to your skin care routine:

• Pour a small amount of the oil into a spoon and smell it. Fresh extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) should have a grassy or peppery scent, not a greasy or stale odor.

• Rub a few drops on your wrist or inner arm to check how quickly it's absorbed and how your skin feels afterward.

• Watch for any signs of irritation, such as redness, bumps, or an itchy sensation.

• If irritation occurs, wipe it off immediately and avoid further use.

• Remember, every person’s skin reacts differently, so patch testing is always a good idea before applying to larger areas.

Olive oil can be a useful moisturizing agent when paired with other ingredients that are commonly used for dryness or uneven skin tone. These combinations can help exfoliate, hydrate, or brighten areas where stretch marks form.

Always test new mixes on a small patch of skin first to avoid an allergic reaction, especially if you have sensitive or delicate skin.

Mixing olive oil with fresh aloe vera gel creates a soothing blend that hydrates and cools the skin. Aloe is known for calming irritation and supporting skin repair, making it a helpful partner for pregnancy stretch marks.

Use equal parts and apply a thin layer to the skin. Leave it on for 15–20 minutes, then rinse gently with warm water.

Shea butter is rich in fatty acids that help moisturize and soften rough skin. When melted and combined with olive oil, it creates a body oil that may help prevent further tearing as the skin stretches.

This combo works well for nightly use. Warm it slightly before applying, and let it sit on the skin overnight for deeper hydration.

For gentle exfoliation, combine olive oil with used coffee grounds. This mix helps remove dead skin cells, making it easier for the oil to be absorbed.

Rub the mixture in slow circles using your fingers, then rinse. Use this no more than twice a week to avoid over-scrubbing.

Lemon juice is often used to lighten dark spots, but it can dry out the skin and make it more sensitive to air and sun. When mixed with olive oil, it becomes less harsh but should still be used with caution.

Apply only at night and always rinse off after 10 minutes. If your skin stings or becomes red, stop using it immediately. Avoid lemon blends if you're pregnant or already dealing with itchy or irritated areas.

Yes, eating olive oil can benefit your skin. Its healthy fats and antioxidants work from within to support hydration and repair.

This doesn’t replace topical treatments, but it adds another layer of support, especially during pregnancy or weight gain.

Extra virgin olive oil contains monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, which play a key role in protecting skin cells. These nutrients may help the skin stay flexible and resist damage from stretching or swelling.

Some of these antioxidants also fight inflammation, which can slow down the breakdown of collagen in the skin.

People who follow a Mediterranean diet, which includes olive oil daily, often have better skin health overall. This diet is high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats—things that nourish skin from the inside.

For those who are pregnant, this way of eating may also support the baby’s development while helping your skin stay more elastic.

Most experts recommend sticking to 1–2 tablespoons a day of extra virgin olive oil. That’s enough to get the benefits without overdoing it.

Use it on salads, vegetables, or in place of butter or processed oils. Just make sure it’s fresh and not mixed with other ingredients like flavorings or artificial additives.

While olive oil is popular, other natural oils offer similar skin benefits. Some are better for older stretch marks, while others help with prevention.

Knowing how and when to use them can improve your overall skin care routine.

Argan oil is packed with vitamin E and fatty acids. It’s light, absorbs quickly, and may help soften stretch marks. Many prefer it for daily use because it doesn’t feel greasy.

Use it after a shower when your skin is warm and ready to absorb moisture.

Rosehip oil is often used in skincare to help moisturize the skin and can be a part of a routine for those concerned with uneven skin tone. Vitamins A and C may contribute to a brightening effect on the skin.

Because it’s more concentrated, apply only a few drops at a time.

Coconut oil is highly moisturizing and forms a barrier to protect the skin. It's often used to treat stretch marks during or after pregnancy because it’s gentle and safe.

However, some people find it too heavy or may notice clogged pores, so start with a small quantity.

Light and non-greasy, sunflower seed oil helps lock in moisture and calm sensitive skin. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something with a neutral smell that won’t irritate.

It also works well when combined with thicker oils like cocoa butter.

Knowing when to combine oils and when to use them separately can make your skin care routine more effective, especially if you're using olive oil for stretch marks. Here’s how to decide what works best for your skin:

• Combine olive oil with rich moisturizers like shea butter when your skin feels dry and needs deeper hydration.

• Use concentrated oils like rosehip oil or argan oil on their own for more targeted care on older or darker stretch marks.

• Avoid layering too many oils at once, as this can make it harder for your skin to absorb the nutrients.

• Choose just one or two oils based on your skin's needs and stay consistent for better results.

• Test combinations slowly to avoid overwhelming sensitive or delicate skin, especially if you're already using other ingredients.

Olive oil can support healthier skin, but don’t expect it to erase stretch marks overnight. Improvements take time, and results vary from person to person.

It helps to set realistic goals and understand the difference between treating new marks and managing older ones.

Most people won’t notice changes for at least 4 to 6 weeks. With regular use, some see the appearance of stretch marks soften or fade slightly. Others may only notice smoother or more hydrated skin.

Consistency matters. Rubbing in a few drops each day can make a bigger difference than applying large amounts once in a while.

New stretch marks that look pink, purple, or reddish brown tend to respond better to moisturizing oils. Olive oil may help minimize irritation and boost skin elasticity before the marks settle into deeper layers.

Once stretch marks turn white or silver, they’re harder to treat. Oils may still improve skin texture and keep the area soft, but they won’t remove the marks completely.

If your stretch marks are causing stress, discomfort, or you're not seeing results from natural options, it’s worth talking to a dermatologist. They may recommend treatments like laser therapy, microneedling, or prescription creams.

These options can be more effective on stubborn or older marks, but they also come with higher costs and possible side effects.

Olive oil is a simple, natural option that may help reduce the look of stretch marks over time. Its antioxidant-rich formula, including vitamin E and squalene, supports hydration and skin repair, especially when your skin is under pressure from pregnancy, growth, or weight changes.

While it won’t erase marks completely, it can keep your skin softer, more elastic, and less irritated. Consistency matters more than perfection. If results are slow or minimal, it’s reasonable to explore other treatments or speak with a dermatologist.

For many, a small daily effort using just a few drops at the right time can help your skin feel stronger, smoother, and more supported through change.