When it comes to improving the appearance of stretch marks and scars, there aren’t a lot of great solutions out there — especially not ones that cost less than $30. Sure, you could opt for laser therapy or dermabrasion in a dermatologist’s office, but those treatments can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
That’s why the premise of Bio-Oil skincare oil is so intriguing. For a fraction of the cost of in-office treatments, the brand claims you can improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars with an over-the-counter product. It’s almost too good to be true.
To find out if the hype around Bio-Oil is real, I reached out to several dermatologists to learn what they think about using Bio-Oil for skincare concerns like scarring, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and dry skin. Here’s what Dr. Roger Kapoor, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and author of the book Working Happy!, Dr. Hannah Kopelman of Kopelman Hair Restoration, and Dr. Mamina Turegano had to say.
What Is Bio-Oil?
“Bio-Oil is a popular skincare product that works by deeply moisturizing the skin and improving texture,” says Kopelman. “It contains vitamin A and E, which help promote skin cell turnover and regeneration, while plant oils like lavender and calendula work to soothe the skin.”
Bio-Oil is available in several sizes, ranging from a trial-size .85 ounces to a 6.7-ounce value size. It’s notable for its light, floral fragrance (some have described the scent as rosemary-meets-baby powder) and its pretty light pink color. The formula is also cruelty-free and doesn’t contain any parabens.
Ingredient-wise, the first one listed on the bottle is paraffinum liquidum, a refined mineral oil. This has led some critics to refer to Bio-Oil as just “fancy” (read: overpriced) mineral oil. However, it’s important to note that Bio-Oil also contains a unique and proprietary lab-created ingredient called PurCellin Oil. Otherwise known as cetearyl ethylhexanoate, it alters the consistency of Bio-Oil to make it lightweight and non-greasy.
“This ensures the oil is absorbed quickly and deeply into the skin, unlike many other oil-based moisturizers that may sit on the skin’s surface,” explains Kapoor.
This means while there are less expensive body oils on the market you can buy, they likely won’t sink into the skin as quickly as Bio-Oil does. And, consequently, you’ll have to wait longer to get dressed after applying them (or else risk an oil stain on your clothes).
If you’re looking to avoid a lot of chemicals in your beauty products, take note that there is also a “natural” version of Bio-Oil that doesn’t contain any engineered ingredients or added fragrances. This might appeal to pregnant women looking to avoid chemicals altogether or to people with allergies. (The original formula contains 11 ingredients that are known allergens.) Bio-Oil formulated the natural version almost exclusively with oils, including jojoba, rosehip, vitamin E, pomegranate seed, and sunflower, and has a more typical orange-yellow oil color, rather than the original’s pink hue.
Does Bio-Oil Work for Scars?
Let’s be real: There is no moisturizer that can completely eliminate scars and return your skin to its pre-surgery or pre-injury appearance. However, if you’re looking for a way to improve the scar’s look, Bio-Oil can help, the dermatologists told me.
“When it comes to scars, hydration is very important to keeping the skin nourished and functioning well,” says Turegano, adding, “Well-hydrated skin is also more flexible and less prone to damage, which can enhance the appearance of scars. Increased elasticity helps with wound healing when it comes to scar formation.”
To back up the company’s claims, Bio-Oil has undergone multiple clinical studies and trials to evaluate its effectiveness at improving the appearance of scars. As one example, a 2017 double-blind study by the proDERM Institute for Applied Dermatological Research in Germany found that Bio-Oil outperformed the placebo in improving the appearance of surgical scars among the study’s 36 female participants.
Bio-Oil’s instructions also note to massage the oil into the skin in a circular motion until it’s fully absorbed. On its own, massaging and manipulating scar tissue has been studied and shown to be beneficial to improving a scar’s appearance, so combining Bio-Oil with scar therapy massage may help further.
Does Bio-Oil Work for Stretch Marks?
Many women turn to Bio-Oil to help ward off stretch marks during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Although genetics are thought to play a role in whether someone develops stretch marks while pregnant, topical treatments like Bio-Oil can help hydrate the skin and improve skin elasticity, notes Turegano.
“The hydration and antioxidants improve collagen support and increases elasticity, making the skin more resilient and less prone to producing stretch marks during pregnancy,” she says, adding, “Almond oil, which is in Bio-Oil, has been found in studies to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, as well.”
Kapoor agrees: “Stretch marks (striae) are caused by the rapid stretching of the skin due to factors like pregnancy, rapid weight gain, or growth spurts, leading to tears in the skin's supportive layers. The vitamin A in Bio-Oil promotes collagen production, helping to improve the skin’s elasticity and resilience, which can make the stretch marks less noticeable over time.”
The same 2017 clinical trial by the proDERM Institute for Applied Dermatological Research in Germany that studied the effect of Bio-Oil on scars also took a look at its effect on stretch marks. The researchers found that 95% of the participants showed an improvement to the appearance of their stretch marks after two weeks, while 100% of the participants showed an improvement at the eight-week mark. While the study doesn’t detail the extent of the improvement, whether it was significant or just a tiny amount, it’s still evidence that points towards Bio-Oil’s effectiveness at improving the appearance of stretch marks.
Does Bio-Oil Work for Hyperpigmentation?
While Bio-Oil is not a quick fix for any skin condition, including dark spots on the skin caused by sun exposure or inflammation, the dermatologists I consulted endorse its use for treating hyperpigmentation.
“I do believe Bio-Oil can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, particularly with consistent use over time,” says Kopelman. “However, if someone is dealing with more significant dark spots, I often suggest they explore stronger treatments, such as prescription-strength retinoids or in-office treatments like chemical peels for faster and more dramatic results.”
“Results vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition,” adds Kapoor. “It is not a prescription-strength treatment, but many users report seeing improvements when used consistently over time.”
Does Bio-Oil Clog Pores, and Is It Effective for Acne Scars?
If Bio-Oil can help improve the appearance of scars, is it a good option to treat acne and facial scarring? The answer depends on your individual skin type, says the dermatologists.
“Acne scars, especially post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or atrophic scars (like icepick scars), can be difficult to treat, but Bio-Oil may help reduce their appearance over time,” says Kapoor.
However, if you have oily or skin that’s prone to breakouts, Kopelman advises caution when using Bio-Oil on your face: “While Bio-Oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores, some people with acne-prone skin might find that it doesn’t suit them, as oil-based products can sometimes exacerbate breakouts.”
Does Bio-Oil Work for Fine Lines and Wrinkles?
Bio-Oil can be effective at keeping skin hydrated, which can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but it’s not likely the most effective treatment out there for this skin concern, according to Kopelman.
“When it comes to reducing fine lines and wrinkles, Bio-Oil can provide some benefits by keeping the skin hydrated, which naturally makes the skin look smoother and more plump,” she says. “That said, I wouldn’t rely on it alone for anti-aging. For those with more pronounced wrinkles, combining Bio-Oil with ingredients like retinol or peptides will likely give better results.”
Does Bio Oil Work for Dry Skin?
The dermatologists agree that Bio-Oil is a versatile and hydrating moisturizer, which makes it a great option to hydrate and soften dry skin.
“As a treatment for dry skin, Bio-Oil is excellent,” says Kopelman. “It locks in moisture and helps smooth rough, flaky areas, making it ideal for those who struggle with dryness.”
So, Should You Try Bio-Oil?
The answer, as it so often is with these things, is it depends. Overall, Bio-Oil has been proven to be a safe and effective moisturizer, but it’s not a cure-all for every skin condition, and individual results may vary.
Before trying Bio-Oil, it’s a good idea to talk with a dermatologist to decide what the best options are for your skincare needs. Depending on the specific skin concern, a doctor may suggest pairing Bio-Oil with other targeted treatments.
Margeaux Baulch Klein is a freelance writer and SEO strategist based in Los Angeles. She has written for publications like Bustle, Romper, Huffington Post, and HelloGiggles, among others.
