Many people have struggled with acne for years now. It leaves behind scars that last for days, months, and sometimes for years and makes the skin appear unattractive. Therefore, one should seek out acne treatments or natural remedies for acne scars.
The most common solution for the removal of acne scars is to use over the counter products or cosmetics. This is actually the wrong solution. These products often contain chemicals and toxins that can cause permanent damage to the skin.
The other option is to use natural remedies for acne scars that are easily accessible even at home. Natural ingredients are cheap and do not have side effects, so these are the best natural remedies for acne scars.
One of the most unpleasant aspects of acne is the lasting marks it can leave behind – known as acne scars. If you’re seeking natural remedies for acne scars, look no further than this blog!
While acne scars are a common occurrence, there’s no need to feel self-conscious about them. Plus, it’s important to know that they are not permanent and there are various treatment options available.
These treatments range from completely removing the scars to helping the skin heal itself using collagen. It’s estimated that up to 80% of individuals between 11 and 30 years old will experience acne, with one in five developing scarring.
Unfortunately, these scars can also impact one’s self-esteem, cause emotional distress, and disrupt social interactions.
The following are some natural remedies for acne scars that can easily be found and prepared at home:
We discuss how to treat acne at home, what research has shown, and lifestyle changes that can help below.
To test for skin reactions, it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist before applying a topical remedy directly to the skin or to do a patch test first.
A patch test involves applying a small amount of the topical treatment to the wrist or hand.
Best Natural Remedies for Acne Scars
1. Lemon
Lemon is a vital source of vitamin C, an essential component in our diet. Moreover, it contains Alpha-hydroxy acid, which acts as a bleaching agent and aids in diminishing skin scars.
Additionally, the vitamin C in lemon plays a crucial role in repairing damaged skin cells and tissues, while its citric acid effectively eliminates dead cells.
However, it is important to note that lemon can make your skin more sensitive to UV light. Therefore, it’s best to avoid direct exposure to sunlight when using lemon juice for home natural remedies for acne scars.
2. Rosehip Seed Oil
Vitamin C is found in rosehip, which helps in treating acne scars. Rosehip seed oil (RHO) is one of the compounds used in cosmetics for the improvement of scarring.
For years, it was used to treat scars. Rosehip seed oil contains a significant amount of essential fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids that penetrate the skin and help heal acne scars. Apply the oil directly to the scar.
3. Aloe Vera Gel
The aloe vera plant, often found in our garden, adds to the beauty of our collection of plants. However, many are unaware of its potential as a natural remedies for acne scars and various other disorders.
In addition to its medicinal properties, aloe vera gel contains vitamins and aids in the healing process of the skin while reducing scarring. The fresh gel can be easily extracted by cutting a portion of the leaf and peeling off the outer layer.
It has no negative effects on the skin, but rather serves as a natural moisturizer, leaving it soft and healthy.
Regularly massaging the gel onto the skin, specifically on scars, for 30 minutes before rinsing with water can gradually fade dark spots and discoloration.
4. Black seed oil
Black seed oil, otherwise referred to as Nigella sativa, originates from Eastern Europe, western Asia, and the Middle East. This medicinal plant is widely available for purchase online.
Aside from its antibacterial and anti-viral effects, it also boasts anti-inflammatory properties. However, its ability to reduce inflammation is not the only benefit for scar reduction.
Research has shown that it can accelerate and enhance wound healing. Additionally, it can also balance pigmentation and potentially prevent acne breakouts.
5. Olive Oil
There is also olive oil as a natural remedies for acne scars. It is commonly used in cooking, but if you apply a few drops on a cotton ball and mass the oil on the scarred area every day, the blemishes will gradually go away. Due to the antioxidants in olive oil, it is used throughout the world to benefit health.
6. Tea tree oil
The natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil may help kill the bacteria responsible for acne. Due to tea tree oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, it can also help reduce swelling and redness associated with pimples. The antimicrobial properties of tea trees can reduce acne sores in people, according to a 2019 review study.
7. Coconut Oil
Organic coconut oil is a highly effective moisturizer and healing agent. To use, simply take a quarter teaspoon of the oil and massage it onto the affected skin with your palms.
Allow the oil to absorb into the skin without rinsing, as it works continuously to heal and nourish. However, if you prefer to remove any residual stickiness after 30 minutes, you can cleanse your skin at that time.
8. Egg Whites
In addition to being a great source of protein, eggs can also be used to treat scarring. Dip a cotton ball into the egg white and then apply it to your face. Once it has dried, rinse it off your skin. If you prefer, you can sleep with it on and wash it in the morning.
9. Honey
Renowned for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, honey is a versatile remedy utilized for general medicinal applications and as a prominent element in natural skin care remedies.
Furthermore, research indicates that honey may accelerate the healing process of wounds and reduce scarring.
For those dealing with acne scar-related concerns, applying honey directly to affected areas overnight or using a homemade mask containing two tablespoons of honey and two to three crushed aspirin tablets can potentially prevent scarring, diminish the visibility of existing acne scars, and eliminate bacteria responsible for causing acne breakouts.
10. Sandalwood
Another great natural remedies for acne scars is sandalwood. Sandalwood is widely and traditionally used by Indian women due to its ability to cleanse the skin.
The powder can be mixed with water as needed to make a paste, and a few drops of oil can be added to the paste and applied to the affected areas.
After letting the paste dry for 15/30 minutes, wash it off and keep doing this until the scars or blemishes completely disappear.
11. Baking Soda
How wonderful is it that baking soda, a staple in many kitchens, can be used to cure acne scars? Yes, you can lighten acne scars on affected skin by applying two-thirds spoonfuls of baking soda mixed with clean water.
After a few minutes of application, the thick paste should be removed with water. Continue doing this until you get the desired outcome. Another one of the best at-natural remedies for acne scars removal is baking soda.
12. Chamomile
Another valuable element that can effectively prevent acne and pimples is chamomile.
There are two methods for incorporating this ingredient into your routine – using a blender to mix the contents of a chamomile tea bag with water to create a paste for application on your face, or boiling one to two tea bags in two cups of water and cooling the mixture before applying it directly to any blemishes.
By adding this step to your skincare regimen, you can say goodbye to acne for good.
13. Potato Slices
In addition to being one of the most common vegetables consumed by people, the potato is also one that is packed with vitamins and minerals.
If you’re really concerned about your skin, cutting an organic potato into a few slices and applying the juices to acne and pimple scarred skin for 30 minutes would not be a problem, rather, the process helps you remove the scars.
14. Cucumber
Cucumber is a common skin toner used by beauty salons and households worldwide to make women look more attractive. Slices of fresh, organic cucumber can be used to help fade acne or pimple scars.
The procedure is the same as the rest. After 30 minutes of applying the slices to the damaged region, wash your face with clean water. Three to five times a week, repeat this procedure.
15. Honey and turmeric
In addition to being a fantastic moisturizer, honey has antimicrobial qualities that help repair damaged skin, which helps reduce the appearance of acne scars. Make a paste out of water, turmeric, and honey. After applying the paste to the scar, wash it off after 20 minutes.
16. Apple cider vinegar
Aside from smoothing the rough skin, apple cider vinegar can also reduce hyperpigmentation and discoloration.
Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with four tablespoons of water in a bowl. Dip a cotton ball into the solution and dab it on the scar. Put on a cold mask for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse.
17. Aloe vera mask
According to a study published in the Annals of Plastic Surgery, aloe vera applied directly to wounds reduced inflammation and scarring. It is easy to find aloe vera gels and creams, but the best way to get the gel in its most organic form is to buy an aloe vera plant and cut the leaves in half.
18. Turmeric Powder
Turmeric powder is one of the greatest natural remedies for acne scars. Apply the turmeric powder and water paste, then allow it to dry. This is another one of those natural remedies for acne scars that requires constant work to get the desired outcome. It lessens swelling and shields the afflicted area from germs.
19. Argan oil
A noncomedogenic oil like argan can help balance sebum production on oily skin and promote hydration on dry skin. Argan oil can also reduce inflammation and acne scarring.
20. Jojoba oil
An oil extracted from the seeds of the jojoba shrub, jojoba oil is a natural waxy substance.
Researchers gave 133 people clay face masks containing jojoba oil to see if they could reduce inflammation of the skin, reducing redness and swelling around pimples, whiteheads, and other inflamed lesions.
In 6 weeks, people reported a 54% improvement in acne after using the masks two to three times weekly.
21. Tomato Slices or Pulp
Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin A and Carotenes, which help fade scars. You can apply tomato slices or pulp to your skin to help reduce scarring.
22. Iced green tea
Honey not only works wonders as a moisturizer but also possesses antibacterial properties that aid in skin restoration and lessen the visibility of acne scars. Combine honey, turmeric, and water to make a paste. After 20 minutes, remove the paste from the scar by washing it off.
23. Green coconut water
Grab a green coconut that is fresh and cut it open. Transfer water into a basin. Use a cotton ball to wipe it over your face rather than drinking it. Then use lukewarm water to wipe it off.
24. Yoghurt and honey mask
A mask using yoghurt and honey will reduce the redness of acne and other blemishes on your skin. First, mix 2 tablespoons of yoghurt with 1 tablespoon of honey. Then, apply to your face and rinse with lukewarm water after 10 minutes.
25. Castor Oil
One of the benefits of castor oil is its ability to heal damaged skin and encourage the development of new skin cells. Additionally, it can aid in reducing hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
You can apply it to your face using the cotton ball method for a few minutes. Just be mindful that due to its thick texture, it should be washed off thoroughly.
There are numerous natural remedies for acne scars, but first, let’s discuss some preventative measures for managing acne before delving into natural remedies options.
26. Tea tree oil and coconut oil
Before going to bed, mix two to three drops of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of coconut oil. Then, wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the morning. Tea tree oil gets rid of acne scars and stops new ones from appearing.
27. Honey and Cinnamon face mask
Over the course of history, honey has been utilized for its healing properties in treating a range of health issues such as burns, wounds, and herpes.
Recent findings also suggest that a combination of honey and cinnamon bark extract may possess antibacterial effects against P. acnes bacteria.
This makes honey and cinnamon a potential treatment option for acne due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
To create a homemade face mask, simply mix two tablespoons of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon to form a paste. Apply the mask onto your clean face, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off.
Lifestyle changes for acne
Besides natural remedies, specific lifestyle changes can reduce acne flare-ups, make skin less oily, and keep the body healthy.
Avoid touching pimples
It can be very tempting, but touching acne sores irritates the skin, worsens the pimple, and can spread it. Aside from introducing more bacteria into acne sores, touching, rubbing, squeezing, or popping can also cause further infection.
If you squeeze a pimple, you may push bacteria and debris deeper into the skin, causing it to return worse. Talk to a doctor about large or deep sores to find out how to treat them.
Choosing the right cleanser
Often, regular soaps have an acidity or pH that is too high and can irritate the skin, resulting in acne flare-ups. People can find out what works best for their skin by consulting a dermatologist. If acne flare-ups are reduced, using mild cleansers, rinses, and washes can let sores heal and reduce the risk of breakouts.
Using oil-free skin care
Skin care products and cosmetics labeled “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic,” which contain ingredients that allow pores to breathe, can increase the risk of clogged pores and acne sores.
Staying hydrated
Acne can be made worse by dry skin, which can damage or irritate the skin. Staying hydrated also ensures that new skin cells grow properly as wounds heal.
The amount of water that is recommended to be consumed each day varies according on factors such as age, activity level, temperature, and underlying medical conditions. It makes sense to start by drinking more water during the day.
Reducing stress
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, stress increases levels of the hormone androgen, which stimulates hair follicles and oil glands in pores, causing acne flare-ups.
Who gets acne scars?
Acne is a common issue faced by both genders, and there are effective home remedies available for acne scarring.
Coping with acne can be challenging for anyone, as the scars may take months or even years to heal, depending on their severity.
Many have invested in expensive treatments, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, with little to no improvement seen over time.
If you feel like you have exhausted all options with no success, try these five natural remedies for acne scars at home.
What Causes Acne Scars?
Finding the root cause of acne is crucial before thinking about natural remedies for acne scars. This happens when acne damages the skin’s underlying tissue to a great extent.
The production of collagen by the body occurs during the healing process. Scarring, however, may arise from an imbalance in collagen production. Scars that are elevated can result from too much collagen, while scars that are depressed can come from too little.
Thankfully, there are ways to get rid of the majority of acne scars. The disorder known as acne is caused by hyperactive sebaceous glands and can be brought on by bacterial growth, hormone fluctuations, and skin irritation. The following are some of the causes that cause acne:
- Certain medications: Lithium, steroids, and anticonvulsants are some of these medications.
- Restrictive clothing: Wearing tight shoulder pads, backpacks, underwire bras, and headbands may aggravate acne.
- Endocrine disorders: A hormonal imbalance, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), can lead to acne.
- Genetics: Acne breakouts can be inherited.
- Smoking: There is uncertainty as to whether vaping, or smoking e-cigarettes, leads to acne. Smoking can cause atypical post-adolescent acne, known as smoker’s acne.
- The bacteria
- Skin that is dead
- Skin oils
- Skin with clogged pores
When bacteria, dead skin, and oils clog the pores of the skin, inflammation (swelling) occurs. Acne is more common on the skin areas with sebaceous glands (oils), such as the face, chest, and back.
Types of Acne Scar
Various types of acne scars get left behind on our skin. In order to choose a treatment option, we must identify the type of scarring caused by acne. In order to determine whether a scar can be naturally healed, we need to know the type of scar.
Acne scars can be classified into the following types
- Acne scars that appear as small indentations on the skin are called atrophic scars.
- Scars that look like pinpricks are known as icepick scars.
- Scars that appear as large, clear indentations.
- Scars with rolling edges give the skin an undulating appearance.
- During acne healing, the skin produces too many fibroblasts, resulting in a raised scar.
- Similar to hypertrophic scars, keloid scars are usually larger and accompanied by hyperpigmentation and itching.
Symptoms of Acne Scars
- Depending on the kind of acne you had—whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, etc.—and where it occurred, you may detect different types of scars. If you have any of these symptoms, you can choose a course of treatment.
- Atrophic/depressed scars usually appear on the face, like ice picks, boxcars, or rolling scars.
- The thinnest skin areas of the forehead and upper cheeks are where ice pick scars typically develop. They get narrower as they descend farther into the skin and get wider at the top.
- In the jaw and lower cheeks, where the skin is thick, rolling scars have sloping edges that cause the skin to appear wavy and uneven.
- There are more boxing scars on the jaw and lower cheeks, which have sharper edges and penetrate deeper into the skin.
- When collagen overgrows on the skin, raised/hypertrophic scars appear on the jawline, shoulders, chest, and back. They are itchy and painful.
Tips for managing stress include
- Speaking with loved ones, close friends, a physician, or other confidants
- Sleeping enough
- Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet
- Regular exercise
- Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake
- Meditation, yoga, mindfulness, or deep breathing
There has always been a great deal of concern about acne scars, especially for women.
However, we are often unaware that there are natural remedies available to remove acne or pimple scars, but we often choose expensive treatments that sometimes work, sometimes don’t.
For removing acne scars without side effects or harmful consequences, natural ingredients can be adapted and applied easily.
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