Are you frustrated by the scarring on your skin? Are you looking for a natural and cost-effective way to get rid of scars? If you answered yes to these questions, then this web page is the solution to your problems. The skin is like a fine cloth that protects valuable assets.
Think about silk, one small tear affects its appearance. The same case applies to the skin. Any injury, trauma, or burn can result in a scar. Scars ruin the appearance of your skin and affect you both physically and emotionally. Apart from surgical procedures, there are many equally effective natural home remedies for scars.
Read on for a brief coverage of these important aspects of scars.
What is a Scar?
A scar is any mark that is left on the skin after an injury or wound has healed. Scarring is the natural process of repairing wounds. Damage to the inner layer of your skin, the dermis, is necessary for a scar to develop. When damage only affects the epidermis, the top layer of your skin, a scar will most likely not develop.
The appearance of a scar is red because blood vessels are formed when the body is forming scar tissue. The scar later turns pink or brown and later fades and becomes less visible. The healing of a scar can take between a year and 18 months. While some scars heal naturally, others require additional treatment.
When thinking about how to get rid of scars, you need to consider the size and depth of the cut or wound, the location of the injury, your genes, sex, age, and ethnicity.
Types of Scars
The most common types of scars are:- Keloid scars. These scars develop due to an aggressive healing process. When the body produces excess collagen, a protein that helps with the healing process, scars tend to be raised. The scars extend beyond your original injury. Keloid scars are common among dark-skinned people.
- Contracture scars. These scars develop after your skin is burned. Contracture scars tighten your skin and may even affect your nerves and muscles.
- Hypertrophic scars. These red scars are similar to keloids but they do not extend beyond your original injury.
- Acne scars. These are scars that develop because of a skin condition called acne. There are different acne scars from wavelike scars to deep pits.
- Atrophic scars. These type of scars are serrated, depressed, or flat against the top layer of your skin. In some cases, this type of scarring is caused by hyperpigmentation, a condition where certain parts of your skin have a darker pigmentation when compared to other parts.
- Stretch marks. These scars are common among teenagers and people who have lost significant weight. It is also common among pregnant women and people who are obese. The skin tears on the breast areas, thighs, and buttocks when a person shrinks or grows too fast. The stretch marks will look purple or red in color but eventually, they will lighten and have a silver or lighter color.
Potential Problems Scars Can Lead to
Many people are of the opinion that the only dangerous aspect of scars is leaving permanent marks. When determining how to get rid of scars, you need to know when to forward the problem to a doctor. The truth is, in severe cases, like when you are suffering from keloid or contracture scars, you may experience movement problems.
These scars are known to affect the nerves and muscles that control movement. In the case of hypertrophic scars, one is likely to develop silicone sheets or inflammation. For people suffering from acne, when the pores of the skin are clogged, bacteria multiply and if this condition is left untreated it could lead pit like scars.
When to See a Doctor
- If you are suffering from keloid, contracture, or hypertrophic scars, it would be advisable to see a physician.
- If you are suffering from severe acne.
- You should also see a doctor if scar tissue is causing you pain and discomfort. When you develop scars around sensitive parts of the body like your face, it would be advisable to seek medical attention instead of opting to deal with the scar on your own.
- Although scars affect the physical part of your body, they may also affect your mental and emotional state. If you are unable to engage in your daily activities or are suffering from depression due to a scar, it may be wise to talk to a doctor.
Home Remedies for Scars
Water
Cool water is effective in treating burns. You should not use extremely cold water, instead, aim at cooling down the injured area with water to avoid permanent marks, scars, and skin blisters. After you have soaked the injured area in cold water, dry the area and cover it with a bandage.
Onion
Onions have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the excess production of collagen in the scar. Onions contain several bioflavonoids such as kaempferol, quercetin, and cephalin. When you get injured, the skin turns red before forming a scar. Applying fresh onion to the injured area can reduce the redness and any chance of scars developing. In the U.S. you can get onion extracts in the form of the gel.
These gels can be applied directly to scars. Clinical studies on the effect of onions found that 12% of onion extract gel, applied 3 times a day on cesarean section scars, reduced the symptoms of scars. Onions are less effective for controlling scars than when applied to new scars.
Tomato
Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants that are effective for rejuvenation of the skin and getting rid of dead skin cells. The best way to use tomatoes for treating scars is by applying a slice on the scar or by extracting tomato juice and applying it on the scar on a regular basis.
Potato Peel
Potato peels lighten scars and heal damaged skin cells. They are commonly used for burn wounds and have no side effects. Clinical trials have shown that skin tissue grows under the potato peel dressing of outer skin burns. Place the potato peel on the scar and leave it for a few minutes every day.
Banana Peel
Banana peels, like potato peels, are a cheap and effective remedy for treating burn scars. There are mostly used to treat partial thickness burns. In 1996, researchers used boiled banana leaves as a dressing on outer burn injuries. The researchers found that these leaves promoted fast healing of burn wounds with no side effects.
Honey
If you are wondering about how to remove scars on your face, one of the best remedies is honey. You should apply fresh honey on the affected part daily to promote healing of the scars. Several studies with laboratory animals have shown the effectiveness of honey when used as a treatment for burn wounds.
Honey has wound debriding, anti-infectious, anti-exudative, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nutritional effects. A retrospective study found that dressing a wound with honey sterilizes it in a short time, accelerates the healing process, and provides better results in hypertrophic and contracture scars when compared to SSD dressings.
Whole Milk
A study found that pure lactic acid was 92% beneficial in treating scars and resulted in improved skin pigmentation, appearance, and texture. Milk contains lactic acid which is a natural exfoliant. This is the reason it is effective in getting rid of scars. For best results, apply whole milk on your scars regularly.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains a type of bacteria known as lactobacillus. This bacteria is effective in preventing eczema. Apply yogurt on scars formed because of burns and heat. Yogurt cools down your skin fast and lightens scars. Alternatively, you can mix yogurt with barley and turmeric, and apply the mix to the affected area.
Cucumber
Cucumber is effective in reducing skin irritations and curing scars. Cucumber is a good remedy for soothing your skin. Crush a cucumber and mix with water to form a fine paste. Apply the paste on the scars. You can also make a paste of cucumber and tomato pulp and apply it on facial scars. Leave this face mask for 30 minutes. Apply the face mask twice in a week for best results.
Papaya
Apply an extract of papaya juice on your scars to see them diminish quickly. Papaya restores skin cells that are affected when you develop a wound. It also gives your skin an even tone. The Royal Victoria Hospital in the Gambia uses papaya at the pediatric unit for dressing burn injuries.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar is excellent for skin exfoliation. It is packed with vitamins which are necessary for healthy skin. When applied on scars regularly, vinegar lightens scarred tissue which eventually becomes unnoticeable. Dilute 1-2 teaspoons of vinegar. Dip a cotton swab in the apple cider vinegar solution and apply on it on your scars.
Oatmeal
Oat in colloidal form is an ancient remedy that has long been used to treat a variety of skin ailments. Many studies have concluded that oatmeal has many dermatological benefits. Oatmeal is commonly used for treating eczema. Grind oatmeal into a fine powder and mix it with your bathing water. Soak your body in the water for at least 20 minutes to promote healing of scars brought by eczema.
Baking Soda
When you are researching how to remove scars, you are most definitely going to come across baking soda. This is a popular exfoliant for removing dead skin cells. Not only is baking soda effecting in treating acne, but it also lightens the skin and promotes healing of scars faster. Take baking soda and mix it with water. Gently massage the mixture on the affected area. For best results, apply this solution regularly.
Fish Oil
Fish oil has essential vitamins that nourish the skin and restore its natural appearance. Fish oil also contains omega 3 fatty acids that heal the inflammatory symptoms arising from eczema. It also reduces leukotriene B4, an inflammatory component that contributes to the development of eczema. Because of the differences in body biology, you should consult a doctor before using fish oil to determine whether it will provide the expected results.
Olives
The components of olive are skin protectants. Olives and olive leaves are well-known remedies for getting rid of scars quickly. Apply the extracted juice from olives or olive leaves on your scars daily. There are oils or lotions that are made from olive leaves. These oils are effective in fading away acne scars.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek is a skin coolant that consists of anti-inflammatory properties. These seeds are effective for scars that develop after burns. Soak the fenugreek seeds in water throughout the night then grind them the following day to form a fine past. For best results, apply the paste on the scars regularly.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is effective in soothing the skin. Sandalwood mainly contains santalol, a beneficial component for treating skin problems. Sandalwood soothes the skin and relieves you of any pain experienced from a wound. Mix sandalwood powder with water to form a paste. To deal with pain arising from scars quickly, apply sandalwood paste daily.
Lemon Juice
Lemon is packed with vitamin C, a component that is important for collagen synthesis. Collagen is a protein that helps make your skin smooth and soft. Lemon juice consists of acidic properties that help to fade scars. Extract juice from lemon and apply it on the scar using a cotton ball. After applying the treatment, make sure you wash the area with cool water.
For best results, apply this treatment regularly. Experts recommend that you apply sunscreen after using this treatment because lemon juice makes the skin light-sensitive.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is commonly used to treat scars resulting from burns owing to its moisturizing effect. Apply cocoa butter on your skin and massage it for a few minutes. In one study, patients suffering from burn injuries were given cocoa butter massage therapy. The treatment proved effective in reducing pain and itching caused by burns.
Indian Lilac
Indian lilac is a natural remedy used for treating skin conditions. Indian lilac is commonly used to treat acne scars. In one study, it was found that this herb’s ethanol component has acne inhibiting properties. Crush the Indian lilac leaves. Mix the crushed leaves with turmeric and sesame oil. Apply the paste to the acne scars.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat skin lesions. The oil is effective in restoring the natural color of your skin. The oil gets rid of burned tissues and lightens the color of scars. Tea tree oil is known for its powerful effect against acne scars. It is also highly beneficial for healing hypertrophic scars. It consists of anti-bacterial properties that prevent skin infections such as acne. Tea tree oil has been used in many skin care creams, oils, and gels. Mix tea tree oil with water and apply it on your skin regularly. You can also mix the oil with jojoba oil and olive oil.
Indian Gooseberry
Indian gooseberry is rich in vitamins; this is why it makes the skin smooth and soft. These leaves have medicinal qualities that penetrate inside the affected area and heal the injured tissues. Make a paste from Indian gooseberry leaves and apply it to fade the scars on your face.
Lavender
This oil has anti-fungal properties that promote the formation of healthy skin cells. Lavender is effective for treating burn scars. One study found that massage performed using lavender oil reduces scaly and dry skin lesions that develop because of eczema. Lavender oil can be bought at the drug store. Alternatively, you can crush lavender leaves and apply them to your scars.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has therapeutic properties that are helpful in repairing damaged skin tissues. In rat studies, it was concluded that aloe vera was effective in treating scarring and burns. Additionally, aloe vera’s wound healing effects have been verified severally, including its effectiveness in removing scars.
For best results, apply the gel-like substance found in the aloe vera leaf. Peel the outer green cover of the leaf to find the gel-like substance. Apply the gel onto the scarred surface. Leave the gel for half an hour or longer.
Rosemary Oil
The antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties of rosemary oil are necessary for reducing the appearance of scars. Rosemary oil does not only lighten scars, but its properties also help to rejuvenate the skin. Massage rosemary oil on your skin daily to remove scars.
Emu Oil
Emu oil is derived from the emu bird. The bird originates from Australia and is closely related to the ostrich. Emu oil has been known to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. The oil is packed with omega fatty acids which help the skin to glow because of its moisturizing effect. Emu oil is beneficial for treating inflammation and scars. Emu oil also promotes the skin’s healing process.
Shea Butter
After experiencing an injury, it is important that the area is kept moist and well covered. Raw shea butter can help keep the wound moist. This is important for preventing the formation of a scar or to prevent a scar from getting bigger or itchy.
The antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids in shea butter have been known to repair skin and prevent keloid scar tissue. Shea butter is also effective in moisturizing the skin. For best results, apply shea butter daily.
Glycerine
Glycerine has a powerful formula for healing acne scars. The saturating property of glycerin permits the skin’s pores to inhale and addresses one of the main causes of a skin break out-obstructed pores. Glycerine fills small voids and breaks on the skin’s surface giving you a smoother and healthier look.
Glycerine also fights against bacterial contamination, contagious diseases, and skin conditions such as psoriasis and dermatitis. For best results mix glycerine with lemon juice and apply the mixture on the scarred area. If you have oily skin, do not leave this facial mask on for a long time.
Silicone Gel Sheets
The best way of dealing with hypertrophic scars is by using silicone gel sheeting. The main ingredient in silicone sheets is medical grade polymers. These are mineral-based membranes. Silicone gel is capable of fading out scars and moisturizing the skin. This remedy is also known to change skin tone so that the scar matches the skin color. For best results apply silicone gel sheets daily for a period of 8-10 weeks.
Egg Whites
Egg whites are packed with amino acids and proteins which are helpful in tightening pores to avert breakouts and lighten scarred skin. Egg whites are particularly common for treating acne scars. Mix an egg white until it is white and feathery. Use your fingers to spread the egg whites on your skin.
Leave the egg whites on your skin for a couple of minutes before washing them off with warm water. For best results, apply this remedy to your skin 2-3 times a week.
Helichrysum Oil
Helichrysum oil works the same way as tea tree oil. It consists of antibacterial properties that fight off skin infections. Helichrysum is also an antioxidant that not only regenerates skin but also prevents damage to the skin. Helichrysum is effective in diminishing the appearance of scars. For best results, you should apply helichrysum oil daily.
Neem Leaves
Azadirachta indica leaves, also known as neem leaves, contain anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. These leaves are not only effective for fading away scars, but they also help solve skin problems such as acne. Make a paste using these leaves and apply it on the scars. You can also use neem leaves to make a facial mask.
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is a well known effective antioxidant that promotes healthy skin. Vitamin E fades scars by moisturizing the skin and repairs damaged tissue. You can either derive the benefits of Vitamin E from capsules or from the gel itself. When using capsules, open them up and smear the oil in them on the scar.
Massage the area gently for a couple of minutes before washing the oil off with water. The other alternative would be to use a gel that contains vitamin E. Before using vitamin E oil, make sure you test it on a small patch of skin to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction to the oil.
Almonds
Almonds are crucial for a healthy skin and help treat acne scars. Almonds contain high levels of copper, phosphorus, tryptophan, riboflavin, magnesium, and Vitamin A. Most of these nutrients help rejuvenate your skin and keep it healthy. The Vitamin E in almonds protects your skin cells against free radicals. Including almonds in your daily food can help reduce acne scarring and restore the glow of your skin.
Garlic
Another effective remedy for acne scarring is garlic. Garlic contains anti-bacterial, antiseptic, and anti-viral properties that kill bacteria that cause acne. It is also a great source of acne combating nutrients such as Vitamin C, B6, selenium, allicin, copper, zinc, and other essential minerals. While garlic may be applied directly to the skin, some people have a strong reaction to this method and prefer mixing it with water, or consuming eat, or even applying it as garlic oil.
Aspirin
Aspirin is effective in treating keloids. It has exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties that come in handy if you have a keloid scar. You will need 3-4 aspirins and water. Crush the tablets and make a smooth paste by adding some water. Clean the scars and apply this paste then leave it to dry. For best results, apply this mixture daily.
Grape Fruit Seed Extract
Grape fruit contains Vitamin C and anti-oxidants that are helpful in reducing keloids. The Vitamin C in this extract is also important for restoring the smoothness and glow of the skin. To use this extract, you need to dilute the grapefruit seed extract with water and apply this solution to the keloid. For best results, apply this solution twice a day.
Petroleum Jelly
In order to treat a keloid scar, you need to know what’s good for scars. To minimize scarring, you need to keep the affected area hydrated and moisturized at all times. Petroleum jelly is an occlusive agent that traps moisture on the affected area and helps reduce the occurrence of keloids. Apply petroleum jelly on the affected area at least 3-4 times daily for best results.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil is effective in making keloid scars fade away. This oil has properties that moisturize and nourish your skin with fatty acids. Frankincense oil also possesses skin healing and regenerating properties along with antioxidants that enable it to heal the keloids. Apply a few drops of the oil on the affected area and massage gently. For best results, repeat this process daily.
Do's and Don'ts
Do’s- Moisten the wound using petroleum jelly. This will help reduce the risk of developing a scar.
- Massage the scar gently after the wound has healed. This breaks up the collagen to minimize the size of the scar
- Wash your skin with a mild soap twice every day.
- If you know what's good for scars, you should not use more than one scar treatment at a go. Mixing treatments may aggravate your scar or cause unexpected complications.
- Eat foods that are rich in Vitamins A and C. These vitamins are helpful in rejuvenation and healing of the skin
- Wash your hair often to prevent scars from developing. This is especially true if your skin is oily
- Use non-acnegenic and oil-free skin products
- Remove clothes from the burnt area and if they are stuck to your skin, leave them and seek professional help.
- If you get heat scars, do not use ice, oil spray, butter, cream, or ointments over them immediately. These products normally retain the heat on your skin and make the scars worse.
- If you have blisters on your skin because of heat burns, do not tear them as this may leave your skin with permanent scars.
- Do not scrub your skin as this makes acne scars worse.
- Do not breath, cough, or blow on the burn.
- Although chemical treatments are recommended for scars, avoid them because they are not good for your skin
- Do not expose your scars to sunlight as this will make them severe and leave permanent marks on your skin. Protect your scars from direct sun exposure.
Conclusion
Developing a scar can impact on your physical appearance and also affect you emotionally as your esteem diminishes. The best way to deal with scarring is to know what remedies to use and what's good for scars. Scars occur as a result of the natural healing process of wounds or injuries.
While some scars easily fade away, some take time to fade while others remain permanently. Scars can be differentiated depending on the injury or inflammation, the area affected one’s skin type, one’s age, and one’s ethnicity. Although scars can be relieved through surgery and other hospital procedures, home remedies are equally effective in treating scars. However, you should not apply more than one remedy when treating a scar.
Furthermore, since people react differently to these remedies, it would be advisable to consult a doctor before adopting some powerful remedies. Most of the remedies mentioned above are derived from natural plants and animal products. These products have antibacterial, antioxidant, antifungal properties that allow them to address the main issues that cause scars to take a long time to heal.
Furthermore, some of these remedies have skin regeneration and healing properties. Like with any medication, for a home remedy to work, you need to faithfully use it on the affected area. Many studies have acknowledged the effectiveness of natural remedies for the treatment of scars. Apart from being affordable and readily available, natural treatments have fewer side effects than ordinary procedures.
Since you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain, why not try any of these remedies to treat your skin condition, you surely will not regret it. Enjoy healthy, rejuvenated, and glowing skin with the above clinically proven home remedies for treating scars.
