Year: 2026 | Month: July | Volume: 13 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 102-109
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20260713
Clinical Evaluation of EqualsTwo® Anti-Stretch Mark Oil in Pregnant and Lactating Women: A Prospective Open-Label Study
Dhruv Zaveri1, Trupti Patel2, Kinjal Barot1, Jaimin Vaishnav1, Parth Joshi3, Simran Sathi3, Sunil S. Iyer4, M. E. Kannan5
1Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Development, Zydus Lifesciences Limited, Pharmaceutical Technology Centre (PTC), Sarkhej Bavla N.H. No.8A, Moraiya, Tal: Sanand, Dist.: Ahmedabad 382 210, Gujarat, India,
2Zydus Wellness Centre, Ahmedabad 382481, Gujarat, India.
3Cliantha Research Limited, TP 86, FP 28/1, Off S.P. Ring Road, Sarkhej, Ahmedabad – 382210
4 Head, Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Development, Zydus Lifesciences Limited, Sarkhej Bavla N.H. No.8A, Moraiya, Tal: Sanand, Dist.: Ahmedabad 382210, Gujarat, India,
5 Head, Pharmaceutical Technology Centre (PTC), Zydus Lifesciences Limited, Sarkhej Bavla N.H. No.8A, Moraiya, Tal: Sanand, Dist.: Ahmedabad 382210, Gujarat, India.
6.
Corresponding Author: Dhruv Zaveri
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Striae gravidarum, or stretch marks of pregnancy, are a common cutaneous physiological change occurring during pregnancy.
Objectives: This study investigates the safety and efficacy of EqualsTwo® Anti-Stretch Mark Oil (investigation product) in reducing and preventing stretch marks in pregnant (1st and 2nd trimester) and lactating women (up to 3 months postpartum).
Methods: An open-label, single-arm, prospective study enrolled 60 healthy female participants (25 pregnant in the first/second trimester, 35 lactating up to 3 months postpartum), with 41 completing the trial. Participants applied the investigation product twice daily for 60 days. Efficacy and safety were assessed using clinical scar grading scales (POSAS, VSS, Goodman & Baron), instrumental measurements (Cutometer®, Digital Vernier Calipers), and patient satisfaction surveys at baseline, day 15, day 30, and day 60.
Results: By the end of the study, abdominal scar pigmentation and vascularity improved by 29% and 40.6%, respectively. Pliability, thickness, and relief each improved by over 23%. All participants reported complete resolution of scar-related pain, pruritus, irregularity, discoloration, and stiffness. Instrumental analysis showed an increase in skin elasticity (2.7%), in firmness (2.4%), and reduction in scar size (30.5%) (p < 0.0001). No adverse events occurred, and, with participants describing the investigation product as easy to use, non-sticky, fast-absorbing, and pleasantly scented.
Conclusion: EqualsTwo® Anti-Stretch Mark Oil (Investigation product), a plant-based topical, significantly improved striae gravidarum and enhanced skin elasticity and firmness over 60 days in pregnant and lactating women. It was well tolerated with no adverse effects, supporting its safety and efficacy for pregnancy-related dermal changes.
Keywords: Maternal skincare, Postpartum skin health, Striae gravidarum, Skin elasticity, Topical botanical oils..
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