10 Best Belly Oils to Use During Pregnancy and Beyond

profile-image
By Chelsea Hall
Published on November 12, 2024
An image of a pregnant woman in the bathroom, gently massaging oil onto her belly from a green glass bottle, her reflection visible in the mirror
An image of a pregnant woman in the bathroom, gently massaging oil onto her belly from a green glass bottle, her reflection visible in the mirror

As the journey of pregnancy unfolds, nurturing your skin becomes paramount, especially as your belly expands and stretches to accommodate new life. You might dream of a blend of hydrating goodness and a dash of essential oils to help keep stretch marks at bay and dry skin woes far, far away. And lucky for you, we’re here to help make that dream a reality. We've scoured the beauty shelves to present you with the best belly oils, where skincare meets self-care in the most pampering way possible.

With these superhero oils in your skincare arsenal, it’s time to say goodbye to dry, dull skin and hello to the smooth belly oil of your dreams. Because these formulas aren’t just about slathering on moisture—they're about turning your skincare routine into a daily ritual of joy and comfort during your most critical stages. With pregnancy-safe formulations that'll make you breathe a sigh of relief, these belly oils are like a big, comforting hug for your growing bump. So grab your favorite blend, sink into relaxation mode, and let's discuss the most nourishing, skin-loving concoctions that'll help leave your belly itch-free and glowing.

Meet the Expert

Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a NYC and New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist. 

Deanna Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified dermatologist with award-winning experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.

1. Best Overall Belly Oil:

BIO-OIL Multiuse Skincare Oil

BIO-OIL Multiuse Skincare Oil
BIO-OIL Multiuse Skincare Oil

Here is the ultimate solution for addressing various skin concerns, especially during pregnancy or weight fluctuations. With a blend of vitamins A and E, along with natural oils like rosemary, lavender, and chamomile, this BIO-OIL formula deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, aiding in improving elasticity and reducing moisture loss. "Its unique formula helps minimize the appearance of scars, stretch marks, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging," says board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD. Thanks to PurCellin oil, this oil is fast-absorbing, ensuring effortless application. Whether you're combating stretch marks or revitalizing dehydrated skin, this product’s versatile benefits make it an essential addition to your skincare routine. Fellowship-trained, board-certified dermatologist Deanna Mraz Robinson notes "that skincare oils have so much value in skin elasticity; however, it's important to note that genetics are the biggest determining factor as to whether or not you will develop stretch marks."

2. Best Scented Belly Oil:

YSE BEAUTY Liquid Glow Body Oil

YSE BEAUTY Liquid Glow Body Oil
YSE BEAUTY Liquid Glow Body Oil

Want to achieve a radiant glow from head to toe? Reach for YSE BEAUTY's Liquid Glow Body Oil. Crafted with a luxurious blend of meadowfoam seed oil, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E, this body oil is designed to deeply hydrate your skin, leaving it irresistibly silky-smooth and luminous. "This potent combination of oils works together to create a protective barrier for the skin, leaving behind a glowy finish," says Dr. Garshick. Ideal for year-round use, this body oil delivers a dewy finish while scenting your skin with its comforting aroma.

3. Best Hypoallergenic Oil:

AVÈNE Skin Care Oil

AVÈNE Skin Care Oil
AVÈNE Skin Care Oil

"This multi-purpose oil boasts a unique Oleo-soothing complex, combining plant-based oils and AVÈNE thermal spring water to soften and smooth the skin," explains Dr. Garshick. The non-greasy, non-sticky formula ensures quick absorption, leaving behind a silky touch and long-lasting hydration. "Whether you're looking to improve skin radiance, nourish dry patches, or protect against environmental aggressors, this oil is rich in shea oil to soothe and hydrate the skin, camelina oil to restore the skin barrier locking in hydration, and safflower oil to protect against oxidative damage," explains Dr. Robinson. This is your go-to solution for achieving a luminous complexion and doing away with itchiness thanks to the use of moisturizing organic ingredients.

4. Best Gel-Based Belly Oil:

VASELINE Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Body Gel Oil

VASELINE Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Body Gel Oil
VASELINE Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Body Gel Oil

"While in an oil formulation, this product offers the benefits of both shea and cocoa butter, leaving the skin moisturized and refreshed," says Dr. Garshick. The non-greasy formula locks in moisture without leaving behind any residue, while the combined benefits of cocoa butter and shea butter leave your skin feeling soft and nourished. So dullness? We don’t know her. This gel oil works to revitalize and improve the appearance of your skin, unveiling a healthier, more radiant complexion with every use.

5. Best Lightweight Belly Oil:

MAMA MIO The Tummy Rub Oil

MAMA MIO The Tummy Rub Oil
MAMA MIO The Tummy Rub Oil

Experience the ultimate hero in stretch-mark protection with MAMA MIO’s Tummy Rub Oil, which is expertly crafted to nourish and soothe dry, uncomfortable skin during each trimester of pregnancy. This lightweight, silky blend of natural oils, including coconut oil, olive oil, sweet almond oil, rosehip oil, and vitamin E, works synergistically to increase skin elasticity and moisture. Dr. Garshick praises its effectiveness in enhancing elasticity and moisture, thanks to its rich blend of natural oils. Clinically proven to deliver results you can both see and feel, this tummy rub oil is a must-have for expecting mothers. Massage this oil into your skin for instant relief, as 100% of mamas agreed their skin felt soothed and supple after just one use.

6. Best Belly Oil for Sensitive Skin:

AVEENO Daily Moisturizing Oil Mist

AVEENO Daily Moisturizing Oil Mist
AVEENO Daily Moisturizing Oil Mist

This fabulous body oil spray is your ticket to intense hydration. Let's talk convenience: This oil mist offers an easy-peasy spray application—no fuss, just pure hydrating perfection. "Plus, it's like a spa day for your skin, with a rich blend of lipids and fatty acids that give your skin barrier a serious boost," says Dr. Robinson. But wait, there's more! Vitamin E, jojoba oil, and oat oil join forces to amp up the hydration and give you some serious antioxidant protection. Oh, and did we mention it's hypoallergenic and free from all those pesky irritants? That's right—perfect for even the most sensitive of skin types.

7. Best Fragrance-Free Belly Oil:

COCOKIND Ceramide Body Oil Stick

COCOKIND Ceramide Body Oil Stick
COCOKIND Ceramide Body Oil Stick

"Formulated with ceramides, squalane, and shea, this mess-free stick combines the nourishing properties of an oil with the convenience of a balm," says Dr. Robinson. The stick applicator allows for precise targeting of dry areas, locking in moisture wherever you need it most. Clinically tested for sensitive skin and fragrance-free, this body oil stick is gentle yet effective, giving you soft and supple skin with every use.

8. Best Calming Belly Oil:

HATCH Belly Oil

HATCH Belly Oil
HATCH Belly Oil

Specifically designed for mamas-to-be, this quick-dry botanical oil is your essential companion throughout pregnancy and beyond. Made with nutrient-rich ingredients like soothing calendula, vitamin E–rich sweet almond oil, and antioxidant-packed grapefruit oil, this belly oil intensely hydrates and reduces the appearance of stretch marks and scars. "Plus, its formulation is free from irritants like parabens, dyes, and fragrances, ensuring gentle care for sensitive skin," says Dr. Robinson. Glide on this lightweight oil to instantly relieve your growing belly of itchiness and irritation as the nourishing blend of botanicals supports your skin's elasticity and health.

9. Best Belly Oil for Postpartum:

CLARINS Tonic Body-Firming + Tightening-Treatment Oil

CLARINS Tonic Body-Firming + Tightening-Treatment Oil
CLARINS Tonic Body-Firming + Tightening-Treatment Oil

Introducing your postpartum ally. Crafted with 100% plant extracts, this aromatic blend of essential oils, including organic geranium, mint, and rosemary, delivers a spa-like experience while visibly firming, toning, and targeting stretch marks. Rich in omega 9 and vitamin E, hazelnut oil locks in moisture, leaving your skin silky from head to toe. Its fine, lightweight formula absorbs instantly, providing an immediate boost in elasticity. Whether you're aiming to reduce stretch marks, deeply hydrate, or simply soothe and smooth your skin, this treatment oil is your go-to solution.

10. Best Body Butter:

MUTHA Body Butter

MUTHA Body Butter
MUTHA Body Butter

Consider this gem of a product the feel-good skin savior in your beauty arsenal, combating stretch marks with a heavenly blend of shea, cocoa, and mango butters. Enriched with vitamins A and E, nourishing fatty acids, and pure seed extracts, this buttery delight is the perfect addition to your daily skincare routine. Its natural citrus-like fragrance instantly uplifts your senses as it diligently hydrates and improves skin tone. Clinically proven to minimize stretch marks, even out discoloration, and boost skin firmness, this body butter isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for any mama-to-be or anyone seeking super-soft skin.

Want to read up on more skincare-related content? Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with your own IPSY beauty subscription. Already an IPSY member? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and TikTok @IPSY.

Like this article? Share it with your friends by clicking the icons below!

Liked this post? Share!

Related Stories