The 13 Best Creams for Cellulite and Stretch Marks
Smoother, firmer-looking skin in a bottle—right this way.
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Cellulite—annoying as it is—occurs when fatty cells push up against the skin and denser connective tissue is pulled down, creating a lumpy, dimply effect. But before you think of cellulite as a flaw, it's important to recognize that it's totally normal. According to Brahma Upputuri—dermatologist and senior consultant at Olivia Clinic, which specializes in hair and skin care—cellulite is "a common occurrence that can affect up to 90 percent of women." Cellulite can be caused by a myriad of factors—genetics, skin structure, hormones, and age, to name a few—and it'll never fully go away. However, the right anti-cellulite cream can help.
"Cellulite creams work via a combination of different ingredients that act to reduce the appearance of cellulite," explains Lauren Penzi, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. "They do so by increasing circulation to the area, hydrating the skin, and promoting increased collagen and elastin production." Since many anti-cellulite also help hydrate the skin, dermatologist Anna H Chacon, adds that they can improve your overall skin help.
Shop the Best Anti-Cellulite Creams
But, just like every other skincare product out there, anti-cellulite creams aren't a one-formula-fits-all situation. To help, we're sharing the very best anti-cellulite creams worth adding to your cart. From cult classics to dermatologist-approved picks, you're just a few clicks away to smoother skin.
Pros
- Refillable container
- Cruelty-free, vegan formula
- Hydrating formula
Cons
- Scent is polarizing
- Some people found the cream dries up in the bottle
Don't let its name fool you: Sol de Janeiro's Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is great for all areas of the body. "This popular cream contains Guaranà Extract that is a caffeine rich substance which acts to visibly firm and plump the skin," Penzi says. "It also contains super nourishing and hydrating ingredients Cupuaçu Butter and coconut oil that provide deep hydration and also act to minimize appearance of cellulite."
Not only is this body cream cruelty- and paraben-free, but it also comes in a generous 8.1-ounce jar. (Once you use it all up, you can easily purchase a refillable version for less.) Rounding out an already impressive find is its warm scent of pistachio, vanilla, and caramel.
Customer Review:
"This is the one body cream I can’t live without. I love the smell and how soft my skin feels when I apply it. I love that my skin absorbs it almost instantly and it doesn’t leave that sticky feeling that other creams do."—Luciie7
| Size | 8.1 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Guaranà Extract, Cupuaçu Butter, and Coconut Oil |
| Skin Type | Normal, Sensitive, Oily, Combination, and Dry |
Pros
- Great value
- Promises firmer skin in two weeks
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- Scent is polarizing
- Pump is faulty
Nivea's Skin Firming Hydrating Body Lotion is proof that you don't need to spend a small fortune to combat cellulite. "This is a great, affordable option for my patients," Penzi says. "I love the non-greasy, gel-cream formula that easily soaks into skin." Thanks to a mix of Q10, L-Carnitine, and Lotus Extract, this budget-friendly buy can produce firmer skin after two weeks of regular use. Plus, nourishing shea butter will deliver 48 hours of hydration.
Customer Review:
"This by far the best lotion there is I have ever used. It is wonderful on older people's skin after using this Nivea lotion it keeps your skin glowing and tight looking. If you are looking for a anti aging lotion for your skin this is the one. I would recommend using the lotion and there body wash together for best results. trust me you won't regret it."—Angel
| Size | 16.9 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Q10, L-Carnitine, Lotus Extract, and Shea Butter |
| Skin Type | Normal |
Pros
- Provides lasting hydration
- Great for stretch marks, too
Cons
- Some customers think it's a watery formula
Looking to smooth cellulite and nourish dry, dehydrated skin in one fell swoop? Penzi recommends First Aid Beauty's Sculpting Body Lotion. "With ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, and glycerin, this cream provides intense hydration that instantly improves the appearance of cellulite and dry skin," she explains. "It also contains peptides and caffeine that act to immediately tighten and plump the skin, giving it a more sculpted and lifted appearance." Bonus points: This formula is both vegan and fragrance-free, so you won't have to worry about harsh irritants.
Customer Review:
"This actually WORKS. My go-to body lotion. Works on tightness, stretch marks, and crepey skin." —kindiscool
| Size | 6 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | DermaPeptide, Glycerin, and Caffeine |
| Skin Type | Dry |
Pros
- Hydrating and smoothing formula
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Expensive
Anyone who is looking to combat cellulite, bumps, and rough patches will find a lot to love in this firming formula from Clarins, which strikes a happy medium between a gel and cream. Matcha tea extract and plant caffeine smooth the appearance of cellulite, respectively, while aloe vera offers a jolt of moisture. "This cream contains Quince Leaf extract, which is known to promote a smoother skin appearance," adds Chacon. (Bonus points: once you apply it onto the skin, you'll feel a mint-cool sensation that feels oh-so-soothing.)
Customer Review:
"Excellent smoothing texture, not greasy. Left my thighs, tummy and butt tingling with an energizing sensation. Much improved from previous formula!"—June O.
| Size | 6.7 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Matcha Tea Extract, Plant Caffeine, Quince Leaf Extract, and Aloe Vera |
| Skin Types | Norma, Dry, and Combination |
Pros
- Made with clean ingredients
- Lightweight formula
- Skin appears toned, nourished, and firmed
Cons
- Some people felt it didn't absorb the skin well
If you're looking to clean up the contents of your medicine cabinet, try Biossance's Squalane and Caffeine Toning Body Cream, which is vegan as well as fragrance- and cruelty-free. In its place of harsh chemicals are a slew of natural ingredients designed to deliver. Caffeine sourced from green coffee beans helps to visibly firm the skin, while niacinamide helps smoothen and strengthen your skin barrier. Need some extra moisture? Biossance uses a special sugarcane-derived squalane that mimics skin's natural lipids and offers a rush of hydration.
Customer Review:
"Such an underrated product. Probably because it has no fragrance so it’s not 'sexy.' But it is so moisturizing and smooth to apply. I like that it is fragrance free so I can mix with other fragrances body oils or creams that have overwhelming fragrance."—Roho
| Size | 6 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Sugarcane-Derived Squalane,Niacinamide, and Caffeine |
| Skin Type | Normal, Dry, Combination and Oily |
Pros
- Affordable
- Made with natural ingredients
Cons
- Not super hydrating
If you want to minimize the appearance of cellulite and care for what lies underneath the skin's surface, try Magic Pure's Hot Cream. Made with a blend of natural essential oils such as camphor and cinnamon oil, this fast-absorbing elixir is designed to both minimize the look of cellulite and alleviate sore muscles. (It even has this warming sensation when applied for a relaxing, massage-like feel.) Not only is this formula cruelty-free and vegan, but it was also made without any artificial colors or parabens. In other words, you can rest easy knowing this cream was made with good-for-you elements.
Customer Review:
"This product REALLY works!! It burns in all the right ways. It is great before a work out and it makes you feel like it is really working. The results are shown after a few weeks and my skin looks tighter and even more shiny and I love it."—Jade
| Size | 9 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Menthol, Camphor , and Cinnamon Oils |
| Skin Types | Normal |
Pros
- Built to leave a fresh, radiant complexion behind
- Targets stretch marks and cellulite
Cons
- Expensive
Think of this body cream from Augustinus Bader as the ultimate option for those with more mature skin—and for good reason. The magic lies in a vitamin- and antioxidant-rich shea butter that smooths the skin to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and, yes, cellulite. Of course, the perks don't stop at one ingredient: A polysaccharide moisture complex hydrates your body, while a dash of bisabolol supports the skin barrier. With the help of Augustinus Bader's TFC8—which is a mix amino acids, vitamins, and molecules naturally found in the skin—you'll create the perfect environment cell turnover and renewal.
Customer Review:
"I absolutely love this product. It’s super enriching and my skin feels baby soft. Honestly, you only need a little bit, & actively rub it in your hands to stretch the product first before applying directly to skin."—Yemimv
| Size | 200mL |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | TFC8, Shea Butter, Bisabolol, and Polysaccharide Moisture Complex |
| Skin Type | Mature |
Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Pros
- Non-greasy texture
- Compatible with a range of skin types
Cons
- Not safe to use while pregnancy or breastfeeding
If you want to add a little oomph to your cellulite-fighting routine, Paula's Choice has you covered. Retinol is a dermatologist go-to for all sorts of skin texture issues, meaning it's the ideal match for softening stretch mark and improving uneven skin tone. Additionally, this treatment also features a breadth of butters and oils such as shea butter, grape seed oil, and evening primrose oil to deliver a hint of hydration.
Customer Review:
"I've been super insecure about the stretch marks on my hip area since I was 15... I started using this, super consistently, every day after getting out of the shower and 2 weeks later, my stretch marks have noticeably faded and my skin in that area is so much softer! ordering this now again so that I never run out!" —Emily
| Size | 4 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Grape Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Panthenol, Shea Butter, Vitamin C, Retinol, Glycerin, Evening Primrose Oil, and Carnosine |
| Skin Types | Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily |
Pros
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Absorbs into the skin quickly
Cons
- Though this moisturizer doesn't have added fragrance, its natural smell is polarizing.
Anyone who has sensitive skin knows one false move in your beauty routine can leave you with redness and irritation. Don't worry, Juice Beauty's Green Apple Firming Body Moisturizer can give you the peace of mind you need. A nice dose of vitamin C tones and brightens, while peptides and skin-softening oils plump and smooth skin. (The result? Firm, radiant skin from head to toe.) Since this cream is free of harsh parabens, sulfates, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrances, it's gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.
Customer Review:
"I love the feel, smell, and results of using this moisturizer. It's getting a little pricey, but I haven't found anything I like better and it does last quite awhile. It is thick/rich but in a good way - it soaks right in and is not tacky or greasy at all. My skin feels soft after applying."—Risemarie M.
Pros
- Lovely whipped texture
- Ingredients like melatonin and valerian are bedtime-friendly
Cons
- Not suitable for daytime use
If you want to wake up to firmer, smoother skin, reach for this fast-acting formula from Maelys. This creamy, dreamy overnight treatment features milk thistle and uva-ursi leaf extract for skin-tightening benefits, as well as passion fruit seed oil to hydrate the skin. (In fact, a self-assessment study found that the majority of users found their skin was tighter and smoother after two months of regular use.) This cream also uses a soothing sampling of melatonin and valerian root extract to help ease you into bedtime mode. Another thing to love: its whipped consistency feels oh-so-light on the skin.
Customer Review:
"I didn’t know how this was going to work but I got it and tried it. I had remarkable results within just three days of using it on my stomach. This product is also super rich and a little goes a long way. Now I’m wanting to put this on other places too." —Melanie R.
| Size | 6.8 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Milk Thistle, Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Melatonin, and Valerian |
| Skin Types | Normal |
Pros
- Addresses tone, texture, and smoothness
Cons
- Expensive
Combat sagging and flabby areas—which are often called "crepey skin"—with the help of Alastin's TransFORM Body Treatment. This derm-approved formula uses lipodrone and the brand's proprietary TriHex Technology improve the skin's laxity and firmness all while minimizing the appearance of those crepey spots. (In fact, a study found 63 percent of participants used this cream regularly and noticed a decrease in crepey skin.) It also boasts hyaluronic acid and glycosaminoglycans to provide a moisture boost from the inside out.
Customer Review:
"The best skincare line on the market! This product follows like the others-it delivers results. I only use it in the evenings, and I have seen and felt good results. It just makes everything smoother! It is a but pricey but it does work."—Jennifer
| Size | 6 oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | TriHex Technology, Lipdrone, and Dill Extract |
| Skin Type | Mature and Dry Skin |
Pros
- Nice smell
Cons
- Expensive
From smoothing the skin to reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and UV damage, a little bit of peptides can go a long, long way. If you're looking for one formula that can punches its weight—and then some—try this Body Tightening Concentrate. You might know and love SkinCeuticals for its standpoint facial products, but its bodycare is worth the hype, too. While hydrolyzed rice protein and yeast extract are used to firm up cellulite-clad skin, a small, 2.5-percent dose of tri-peptide provides a youthful, radiant complexion.
Customer Review:
"After 3 weeks of using this product Ive noticed a big difference under my belly—even more dramatic results than the picture in the slide show above—incredible!! I've been using two to three times a day. Guessing I have enough product to last me a few more weeks. Well worth the price. I'm excited for the beach in a few weeks!"—Mark
| Size | 5 fl. oz. |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Yeast Extract, Tri-Peptide |
| Skin Type | Mature, Normal Skin |
Pros
- Safe for pregnant people
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Some say the formula is too thick
Just because you're growing a little bundle of joy doesn't mean you have to completely halt your skincare routine. Enter Caudalie's Vinosculpt Lift and Firm Body Cream Moisturizer, which is both dermatologist-tested and considered safe for those who are pregnant. But, parent-friendliness aside, this cream works: a clinical study even found that 96 percent of women found their skin was firmer after a month. Its secret? Flavonoid-rich iris extract, plant-based water derived from grapes, and French grape seed extract, which is considered an antioxidant. Plus, 100-percent shea butter bolsters your skin barrier.
Customer Review:
"I LOVE the way this product smells. By far my favorite product. I like the thick texture, I find it spreads well and absorbs quickly. Which can be tricky when applying, but manageable working in sections. I run through it so quickly that I pair it with the body butter."—Audrey
| Size | 250 mL |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Antioxidant Polyphenols, Organic Shea Butter, Organic Grape Water, Iris Extract |
Who is anti-cellulite cream best for?
Simply put, anyone. The catch, however, it you have to know exactly what you're signing up for. "They are best suited for those people who are committed to consistent use, as the creams usually work best if applied for an extended period of time," Penzi says. "They are also best for those with realistic expectations, as mentioned before these creams will reduce the appearance of cellulite to an extent but won't remove it completely."
What ingredients are best for addressing cellulite and stretch marks?
Ultimately, look for ingredients that firm and strengthen the skin, as well as those that increase circulation. "When choosing an anti-cellulite cream, look for ingredients such as caffeine, retinol, and antioxidants, which are known to enhance skin elasticity and promote fat breakdown," says Chacon. Meanwhile, Penzi recommends looking for anti-cellulite creams that also have hydrating elements like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, and squalene. As for what not to look for? "Avoid creams that contain harmful substances like parabens, synthetic colors, and fragrances, which could potentially irritate the skin," Chacon shares.
How do you use anti-cellulite cream?
The good news is that anti-cellulite creams are fairly simple to use. For best results, Penzi recommends using your desired formula one to two times a day—ideally, once in the morning and again at night. "Be sure to apply right after showering when your skin is still a little damp so the creams can really lock in that moisture," she adds. "Be sure to rub the cream in thoroughly with moderately firm pressure, as this helps to increase blood flow circulation to the area, which also temporarily improves the appearance of cellulite."
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Brahma Upputuri is a dermatologist and senior consultant at Olivia Clinic, which specializes in hair and skin care.
- Dr. Anna H Chacon, MD is a dermatologist in Mi, Florida.
- Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD is a broad-certified dermatologist in New York.
Why trust Harper’s BAZAAR?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.
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