Bio-Oil in Canada: What It Does, How to Use It, and Does It Actually Work?
Bio-Oil is one of the best-selling skincare oils in Canada, marketed for scars, stretch marks and uneven skin tone. Here is what the clinical evidence actually says, how to use it, and who it works best for.
Written by UnityLife Admin
Edited by the UnityLife editorial team
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Bio-Oil has been one of the top-selling skincare products in Canadian pharmacies for over a decade. The peach-tinted oil — found at every Shoppers Drug Mart and Walmart — claims to improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, uneven skin tone, aging skin, and dehydrated skin. But does the science support the hype? We looked at the clinical evidence, ingredient list, and dermatologist recommendations to give you a straight answer.
What is Bio-Oil?
Bio-Oil is a cosmetic oil made from a blend of plant oils (chamomile, lavender, rosemary, calendula) in a base of mineral oil and isopropyl myristate. The key marketing ingredient is PurCellin Oil™, a synthetic version of the preen gland oil that birds use to waterproof their feathers. It acts as an emollient that makes the oil less greasy and easier to absorb.
In Canada, Bio-Oil is available in 60 mL ($14–16), 125 mL ($22–25), and 200 mL ($30–35) sizes. It’s classified as a cosmetic, not a drug, which means its claims are not evaluated by Health Canada the way pharmaceutical products are.
What the clinical evidence says
Scars: A 2012 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that Bio-Oil improved the appearance of surgical scars after 8 weeks of twice-daily application, with improvements in colour, texture, and overall appearance. However, dermatologists note that any consistent moisturizing and massage of a scar improves its appearance — the mechanical action matters as much as the product.
Stretch marks: The evidence is mixed. A 2016 Cochrane Review of stretch mark treatments found insufficient evidence that any topical product (including Bio-Oil) prevents stretch marks. However, Bio-Oil may improve the colour and texture of existing stretch marks by hydrating the skin.
Uneven skin tone: The vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) and vitamin E in Bio-Oil have mild brightening and antioxidant properties, but at the concentrations present, don’t expect dramatic results. Dedicated vitamin C serums or prescription retinoids are more effective for hyperpigmentation.
How to use Bio-Oil
Scars: Apply a few drops and massage in circular motions for 2–3 minutes, twice daily, for a minimum of 3 months. Best results on scars less than 2 years old.
Stretch marks: Apply to the affected area twice daily during and after pregnancy (or growth spurts). Massage until fully absorbed.
General moisturizing: Apply to damp skin after a shower. Bio-Oil is most effective as an occlusive layer over damp skin.
Face: Use sparingly. Bio-Oil contains mineral oil and fragrance, which may cause breakouts in acne-prone skin. Patch test first.
Who should and shouldn’t use it
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Good for: People with dry skin looking for an affordable, widely available body oil. Those wanting to improve the appearance of older (healed) scars or faded stretch marks.
Not ideal for: Acne-prone skin (comedogenic ingredients), anyone allergic to fragrance, or people expecting dramatic scar removal (no topical product removes scars).
Alternatives: For scars, silicone-based scar sheets (Mederma, ScarAway) have stronger clinical evidence. For stretch marks, prescription tretinoin is the most studied treatment. For general hydration, pure rosehip oil or squalane are non-comedogenic options.
Key Takeaways
- Bio-Oil is widely available in Canada at Shoppers Drug Mart and Walmart for $14–$35.
- Clinical evidence shows mild improvements in scar appearance after 8+ weeks of consistent use.
- It does NOT prevent stretch marks, but may improve the colour and texture of existing ones.
- Contains mineral oil and fragrance — not ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
- Silicone scar sheets and prescription retinoids have stronger clinical evidence for scars and stretch marks.
The Bottom Line
Bio-Oil is a decent, affordable moisturizing oil that can mildly improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks with consistent use. It’s not a miracle product, and the results are largely due to consistent hydration and massage rather than any proprietary ingredient. If you have acne-prone skin or expect dramatic scar removal, look elsewhere.
Sources
The bottom line
Bio-Oil is a decent, affordable moisturizing oil that can mildly improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks with consistent use. It’s not a miracle product, and the results are largely due to consistent hydration and massage rather than any proprietary ingredient. If you have acne-prone skin or expect dramatic scar removal, look elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
It can improve the colour and texture of existing stretch marks, but no topical product has been proven to prevent them. Consistent hydration and massage are the active mechanisms.
Sources & further reading
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