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Some people aren’t bothered by their scars and, in fact, carry them with confidence. However, some people feel self-conscious about their scars and would want to get rid of them as soon as possible.
The good news is some scar tissues can be managed at home.
Home Remedies for Scars
Here are some home remedies that can help reduce scars
1. Aloe vera gel improves skin integrity to promote scar healing
Aloe vera is an herb that belongs to the Liliaceae family and is used for numerous therapeutic purposes.
Studies have demonstrated the effects of aloe vera on wound healing. Results of these studies revealed that topical application of aloe vera may be useful to prevent and treat various kinds of wounds.
Aloe vera can lead to improvement of skin integrity and moisture retention and is helpful in dealing with scars along with other treatments. (1)
How to use aloe vera:
- Remove the skin of an aloe vera leaf.
- Scoop out the clear aloe vera gel.
- Apply the gel directly to your scar in circular motions.
- Rinse off the gel with water after half an hour or so.
- Repeat twice daily.
2. Lavender oil accelerates wound healing
The topical application of lavender oil is known to promote collagen synthesis and facilitate wound healing. It can also help get rid of scarring.
One study showed that lavender oil, when applied to the affected area topically, significantly decreased the area of wounds. (2)
How to use lavender oil:
- Mix lavender essential oil with a carrier oil such as olive oil.
- Massage the scarred area with the oil blend for a few minutes.
- Rinse the area with warm water.
- Do this three times every day.
3. Pressure therapy can flatten the scars
Pressure therapy uses compression bandages to put mechanical pressure on the scar, which accelerates the maturation of collagen while flattening the scar.
Pressure therapy has been employed for numerous years as a way of preventing and dealing with burn scars. The only issue is that compression garments can be uneasy and unattractive, causing problems with patient compliance.
Note: Pressure garments should be employed early in the scar development process and should be worn at least 23 hours per day for at least 6 months. (3)
4. Scar massage may work to get rid of scars
Scar massage is a form of pressure therapy that is believed to work by influencing scar remodeling and speeding up the collagen maturation process, which is the process of wound healing that is responsible for closing the wound.
Scar massage is an extremely common remedy for flattening scars, and there is anecdotal evidence to show that it works. Recent studies did discover some proof that scar massage is effective, particularly for postsurgical scars. (4)
5. Onion extract gels may improve the appearance of scars
There are many botanical agents that can improve the appearance of surgical scars. One such agent is onion (Allium cepa), which contains numerous beneficial compounds including quercetin, kaempferol, and cepalin.
Research has shared that the overall appearance, texture, redness, and softness of scars treated with onion gel are significantly better than those of scars left untreated.
Researchers have shown that onion extract applied 2–3 times daily for 3–6 months greatly enhanced the appearance of postsurgical scars and hypertrophic scars. (5)
6. Vitamin C can improve scar impression
Vitamin C is very famous and easily available in various topical products such as oils and serums. The good news is that these can come in handy to aid in the healing of scars.
One study demonstrated that the topical use of a silicone gel containing vitamin C can help straighten up fine scars on facial skin. (6)
How to use vitamin C:
- Mix lemon juice with almond oil, honey, and milk. Once the mixture is smooth, it’s ready to use.
- Apply it to your scar daily for at least 10 days.
If you experience a burning sensation with the use of lemon, discontinue using this mixture.
7. Early application of honey reduces scarring after injury
Honey is a combination of sugars formulated by honeybees from the biological sugar solutions called nectar acquired from flowers or other plant secretions.
Honey has been taken advantage of as an adjuvant for speeding up wound healing in ulcers, wounds, and burns. The reasons that honey is good for wound healing include its viscosity, water content, sugar content, antioxidant activity, and content of a wide range of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Researchers have shared that the early application of honey helps fight free radicals and reduce scarring in burns. (7)
How to use honey:
In minor burns, it is advised to apply tap water instantly to the burn to decrease the temperature. Following this, honey can be applied.
Depending on the area of the burn, 15–30 ml of pure honey or honey-soaked gauze can be used directly on the wound.
Additional Tips That Can Help Fade Scars
The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery provides the following tips for caring for wounds and scars:
- Treat the wounds promptly.
- Keep constant pressure on wounds with compression bandages to flatten any scarring.
- Massage the scar gently after it has healed.
- Go for scar therapy for older scars or for scarring that causes any physical or emotional pain.
- Never ignore a scar if it becomes raised, itchy, or red, as this could be an indication of infection.
- Do not apply hydrogen peroxide to the wounds.
Most-Asked Questions About Scars
Can scars fade on their own?
Yes, scars do lighten with time. They are most distinguished for the first 6 months. There is a significant improvement in scarring commonly reported after the first month itself.
What’s the best treatment for scars?
Scarring is a biological process associated with wound healing after an injury. Scar treatment depends on multiple aspects:
- Depth of the wound
- Size of the wound
- Location of the wound
- Patient’s age
- Patient’s gender
- Patient’s genetics
What is the best way to get rid of acne scars?
No one way is universally accepted to get rid of acne scars, but progress is definitely possible with the right care and approach. The most important part to remember is to treat acne early to prevent scarring.
Is laser a good option for getting rid of scars?
Laser is one of the most effective treatments for scars.
Can acne scars cause permanent marks?
Cystic acne is one of the major reasons for prominent scarring that may be permanent. Early treatment of this skin issue is possibly the best way to prevent permanent marks.
Final Word
Some scars can be a cosmetic issue and may end up being the cause of stress, loss of self-esteem, and diminished quality of life in some people. In extreme cases, skin scars can contribute to functional disability.
It’s natural to want to get rid of scars, and home remedies are a good way to manage them.
Continue ReadingScar Tissue: Causes, Types, Symptoms, and Treatment
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