We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:
  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?
We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
Was this helpful?

Bio-Oil was developed to help prevent and heal scars and stretch marks.

Bio-Oil is the name of the oil as well as the name of the oil’s manufacturer. Ingredients include:

Keep reading to learn about the uses and benefits of Bio-Oil for your skin.

Bio-Oil claims to help:

  • improve the appearance of new and old scars
  • improve the appearance of stretch marks
  • improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation (uneven skin tone) for both dark and light skin types
  • smooth and tone aging skin on the face and body
  • retain skin moisture

According to a 2018 study of 80 people with non-hypertrophic scars, Bio-Oil showed a 14 percent better reduction in scarring and striae (stretch marks) in comparison with an untreated area.

Here are additional results from participants in the study:

  • 93 percent said that Bio-Oil had a long-lasting soft and supple skin feeling
  • 61 percent indicated that they felt the product improved their skin appearance
  • 51 percent said that their scars and stretch marks looked less pronounced
  • 17 percent indicated that the oil had no benefit

Bio-Oil can be used on the four primary categories of acne scars:

Although Bio-oil isn’t considered an acne treatment, one of the ingredients is used to treat acne.

A 2007 study indicated that rosemary oil demonstrates antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), bacteria that live on the skin and contribute to acne.

Also, Bio-Oil is noncomedogenic, meaning that it won’t clog pores.

For acne, your doctor is more likely to recommend products other than Bio-Oil, such as:

The plant-based oils in Bio-Oil are hydrating and can cosmetically reduce the appearance of wrinkles by plumping the skin.

Also, according to a 2007 study, vitamin A, which is found in Bio-Oil, improves fine wrinkles.

Although Bio-Oil is generally considered safe, it isn’t recommended for use on broken or bleeding skin. Also, according to a 2016 study, a fragrance ingredient in Bio-Oil, linalool, is a known allergen.

If you think you might be sensitive to linalool or any of the listed ingredients in Bio-Oil, before starting regular use, put a small amount on your forearm and wait 30 to 60 minutes. If you experience a reaction, discontinue use.

Performing a skin patch test is a good idea before adding any new skin product to your skin care regimen.

Bio-Oil has been proven to help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Some of its ingredients can also help with the appearance of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, and possibly in the treatment of acne.

As long as you’re not allergic to its ingredients, Bio-Oil is considered generally safe to use.