11 Best Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Facial Scars Naturally

Not everyone may feel comfortable embracing the scars, especially on the face. So, if you are wondering how to get rid of scars on your face naturally, let us tell you that they won’t disappear completely. However, these remedies may help fade them and minimize their appearance. We have compiled a list of the 11best home remedies that can help heal scars on the face over time. But first, let’s look at the science behind scars. Keep scrolling!

Scars: What Are They And What Are Their Types?

A scar is proof that your skin is healing. Your skin develops a scar following an injury. The skin has three layers – the epidermis (the topmost layer), the dermis, and the hypodermis. When the dermis is damaged, your body tries to heal itself. It starts forming collagen fibers to repair the damage, leaving behind a scar.

An internet survey study from April-May 2020 with 11,100 participants shows the psychosocial impact of visible scars. 48.5% of the respondents reported having a scar that was less than a year old. The average Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) was 7.44, which showed a decrease to 2.90 after a year. 33.9% of participants with scars less than 3 months old reported a more negative impact on quality of life than 10.2% of participants with scars aged 12 months or older.

How Do Scars Form?

The scar’s severity depends on the severity of your wound and how fast it heals. In most cases, if it’s a small wound and if it heals fast, there will be less collagen deposit on the wound area. As a result, the scar will not be noticeable. However, depending on the area of your body and age, scars may form differently. Each type of scar has different characteristics. Let’s take a look.

Different Types Of Scars

Depending on the rate at which your body heals, scars can be of the following types:

1. Atrophic Scars

These scars are formed when your skin is unable to regenerate tissues, which causes imbalanced scarring. They often look like sunken areas on the skin. The best examples of atrophic scars are scars caused by acne and chicken pox.

2. Keloid Scars

Keloid scars are caused by overproduction of tissues on the wound site. They are raised, puffy, and darker than the surrounding skin. Keloid scars often go beyond the original injury site and can also hamper movement. They are most common in people with darker skin tones.

3. Hypertrophic Scars

These are somewhat similar to keloid scars, but unlike them, these scars do not go beyond the site of injury. Hypertrophic scars are formed when there is an overproduction of tissues on the site of injury as the skin heals. These also have a dark appearance.

4. Contracture Scars

These scars develop when your skin is recovering from a burn. Contracture scars tighten the skin and can restrict your movement. These scars may also go deeper and affect your nerves and muscles.

You may also get scars from scratches, bites, pregnancy (stretch marks), and injuries caused by self-harm. Let us take a closer look at some of the medical treatments you can use to improve the appearance of scars.

Medical Remedies For Getting Rid Of Scars

1. Laser Therapy

It is also known as laser scar revision, where laser beams are used to remove the topmost layer of the scar.

It also targets the blood vessels in the specific area to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the scar.

2. Microneedling

This minimally invasive procedure involves pricking the scars with tiny needles or a dermaroller to create micro wounds. Dermarolling boosts collagen production in the area and improves scar appearance. A study found that microneedlingⁱ  A minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves pricking the skin with needles to stimulate collagen production could improve scar appearance by 31 to 62% (1).

3. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers use hyaluronic acid or other gel-like substances to raise the pitted scars caused by acne. You can either opt for temporary fillers or more permanent fillers to improve the appearance of the scars. Consult a dermatologist to understand the benefits and risks of the procedure before opting for it.

4. Subcision

Subcision is a minor surgical procedure where a small needle is used to puncture the scar and break the fibrous tissues connecting the scar with the underlying tissues. As the wound heals, the new collagen formation improves the appearance of the scars. It is considered one of the safest and most effective methods for treating acne scars (2).

There are other medical treatments you can consider such as using topical scar creams, microdermabrasion (removes surface skin wrinkles and scars), dermabrasion (more aggressive but effective results), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Your doctor may prescribe serums containing niacinamide or retinoids like tretinoin to reduce scar appearance.

While deep scars may not fade easily, if you have scars on the face caused by acne, chickenpox, or a small wound, you may try these home remedies to reduce their appearance.

Quick Tip

Some scars might be reduced by minimally invasive treatments like cryotherapy and steroid injections.

Top 11 Home Remedies For Scars On Face

If you want to fade facial scars but medical treatments seem too aggressive, then the below-listed home remedies will help you tackle the problem naturally. These organic ingredients not only help diminish your scars but also nourish and rejuvenate your skin. Read on!

1. Aloe Vera

A study found that topical application of aloe vera could heal cutaneous wounds in rats (3). It modulated the inflammation and decreased scar tissue size. Also, it contains vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E, which have antioxidant properties and may boost skin health.

You Will Need

1 tablespoon of

fresh aloe vera gel

Method

1. Extract clear aloe vera gel from the leaf.
2. Apply it directly on the scars in a circular motion.
3. Leave it on for half an hour and then wash it off.
4. Repeat two times daily.

A blogger observed noticeable results after a week of applying aloe vera gel on her skin: “My larger breakout areas completely smoothed out and the redness was minimized. A few blemishes [were] also banished [sic] within a week of using aloe vera, mainly in the temple area (i).”

2. Honey

Honey was found to promote healing and prevent excessive scarring (4). Honey can be used for all types of wounds, including cuts and burns.

You Will Need

1 tablespoon of organic or Manuka honey (adjust the quantity as required)

Method

1. Apply honey to the wound before going to bed.
2. Wrap the area with a bandage. Let it stay overnight.
3. Remove the bandage and wash the area the next morning.
4. Repeat this every day

3. Coconut Oil

Although no studies show the effectiveness of coconut oil in fading scars, one study found that applying virgin coconut oil to dermal wounds could accelerate healing (5). It promotes collagen development and speeds up the healing process, reducing the chances of scarring.

You Will Need

1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil

Method

1. Massage the coconut oil on the affected area for about 20 minutes.
2. Let your skin soak it up for about an hour.
3. You may wash it off later or leave it on.
4. Repeat the process 2-3 times every day.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains lactic and acetic acids (6). These acids are often used in chemical peels to fade acne scars (7). Applying ACV on scars may exfoliate the area and improve the appearance of the scars.

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons of ACV
• 4 tablespoons of distilled water

Method

1. Combine the two ingredients.
2. Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and dab it on your scars.
3. Leave it on overnight.
4. Repeat this every day.

5. Rosehip Seed Oil

This is probably the ultimate BFF your skin can ever have! Rosehip seed oil not only helps alleviate skin issues and keeps your skin glowing but also improves the appearance of scars and wrinkles. A study found that it also works great on improving post-surgical scars (8).

You Will Need

A few drops of rosehip seed oil

Method

1.  Use a dropper to apply a few drops of rosehip oil to the affected area.
2. Massage it gently for a few minutes.
3. Leave it on overnight and wash it off the next day.
4. Repeat every night.

6. Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum essential oil prevents the formation of collagen III and inhibits tissue remodeling-related molecules (9). This promotes wound healing and aids the development of tissues, without the formation of a scar.

You Will Need

• 10 drops helichrysum oil
• 1 tablespoon rosehip seed oil

Method

1. Mix both the oils in a bowl.
2. Store it in a dark glass bottle.
3. Apply a few drops of the mixture to the scar.
4. Leave it on for a few hours and then wash off. You may leave it overnight if you want.
5. Use it twice daily.

7. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and is widely used for treating acne. A study found that the combination of tea tree oil and aloe vera could reduce scarring caused by erythema (8).

You Will Need

• 12 drops of pure tea tree essential oil
• 2 tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel
• ½ teaspoon of rosehip seed oil or jojoba oil

Method

1. Mix ingredients in a bowl.
2. Apply on the scars before going to bed. Leave it on overnight.
3. Wash with lukewarm water the next day.
4. Repeat this every night.

8. Olive Oil And Eucalyptus Oil

According to research, a combination of olive oil and eucalyptus oil speeds up wound healing by supporting healthy tissue formation (11). This prevents scarring.

You Will Need

• 3 drops of eucalyptus oil
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Method

1. Mix both the oils and store the blend in a dark glass bottle.
2. Take a few drops of the oil mixture and massage it onto the affected area for 5 minutes.
3. Leave it on for a few hours and then wash with warm water.

9. Frankincense Essential Oil

Studies show that frankincense essential oil has wound healing properties and improves the appearance of scars by lowering the levels of collagen III in the scar tissue (12), (13).

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons of any carrier oil (you may use rosehip seed, jojoba, or apricot oils)
• 3-4 drops of frankincense oil

Method

1. Mix frankincense oil with a carrier oil of your choice. Shake well to mix.
2. Massage a few drops of the oil blend on the scar. Leave it on overnight.
3. Wash it off the next morning.
4. Repeat every night.

10. Clary Sage Essential Oil

Clary sage has antibacterial properties that promote faster wound healing. It can kill Staphylococcus bacteria and promotes healthy wound healing (14). This, in turn, prevents scar formation.

You Will Need

• 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil
• 4 drops of tea tree oil
• 4 drops of clary sage oil

Method

1. Mix all the oils and store in a dark glass bottle.
2. Massage the oil on your scars. Leave it on for a few hours.
3. Wash it off.
4. Repeat this twice daily.

11. Black Seed Oil

Black seed oil’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties may promote skin healing and regeneration. This way, the oil may reduce the chances of scarring (15).

You Will Need

• 1-2 drops of black seed oil
• A carrier oil, like coconut oil or almond oil

Method

1. Dilute 1-2 drops of black seed oil with the carrier oil.
2. Perform a patch test by applying a small amount to your forearm to check for any adverse reactions.
3. You can proceed to apply the mixture to your facial scars if no irritation occurs.
4. Gently massage the oil onto the scars using your fingertips.
5. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
6. Rinse with warm water.
7. You can use this treatment daily or as needed.

Quick Tip

Witch hazel, orange peels, cocoa butter, onion extract, and potato juice are other natural home remedies to reduce acne scars.

Noninvasive Treatment Options For Scars At Home

1. Silicone Gel Sheeting

Silicone sheeting is probably the most effective of all noninvasive home remedies for scars. It is a proven way to minimize the appearance of abnormal scars (16). Silicone sheets are available in medical stores and are beneficial in improving the appearance of post-surgical scars. These sheetings have low side effects and are painless and easy to use.

2. Pressure Garments

Pressure garments are usually worn after a burn to manage scarring. Pressure garments put direct pressure on the skin. Before wearing pressure garments, the healed skin is preconditioned to take on the pressure and stress. This garment is extremely helpful in reducing scars. However, it is up to the doctor to decide how long you need to wear them.

3. Chemical Exfoliators

Chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and AHA peels help smooth fine lines and wrinkles and improve the appearance of many types of scars and marks. Mostly, the peels are beneficial in improving the appearance of acne scars. You may try applying low-strength peels at home. However, for a stronger peel (with a high acid concentration), you must consult a doctor first.

You can also try applying scar camouflage makeup to conceal scars, blemishes, and spots.

These are the measures to minimize the appearance of scars much after the wound has healed completely. However, if you are conscious and careful, learning how to prevent scarring while the wound is healing is key. Here are a few points to keep in mind.

Did You Know?

You can use mint, parsley, basil, coriander, thyme, or rosemary leaves as natural sources of salicylic acid to prevent lesions caused by acne (17).

How To Prevent Scars On The Face And Other Body Parts

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends proper wound care to avoid scars(18). Here are a few points that they recommend:

1. Keep The Site Of Injury Clean

Use a mild soap and water to keep the injury site clean. This keeps away germs and also removes the debris.

2. Keep The Wound Moist

Use petroleum jelly on the injury site to keep it moist. Petroleum jelly prevents moisture loss and prevents scab formation. Wounds with scabs take a long time to heal. Also, keeping the area moist prevents itchiness caused by the drying wound. It also prevents the development of deep and large scars.

3. Remove The Stitches On Time

Do not wait for too long to remove your stitches as it can interfere with the healing process and cause scarring. Follow your doctor’s advice and remove them in time. Also, don’t try to take the stitches off too early.

4. Use SPF And Protective Clothing

UV rays can enhance the appearance of the scars or even cause darkening of the affected area. During the healing period, don’t forget to use SPF and clothes that help with sun protection.

Infographic: Best Treatments And Home Remedies For Facial Scars

Noticeable facial scars draw attention and cause social anxiety and a lack of confidence, which is why they should be treated. Thanks to the advancement of science and the use of age-old remedies, these scars aren’t difficult to lighten. Check out the infographic below to find the best possible home and medical treatments for treating facial scars.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Does vitamin E work for facial scars?

No. Studies found that topical vitamin E has no positive effect on scars but could worsen the appearance of scars (19).

Can lemon work for facial scars?

Yes, lemon juice may help reduce the appearance of facial scars, especially those caused by acne. However, you should know your skin type and do a patch test to avoid any rash or sensitivity.

How long does a scar take to fade?

It may take between 6 months to 2 years for a scar to fade. However, the scar may not go away permanently.

Why do scars turn dark?

Your scar may become dark due to the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for your skin color. This is also known as hyperpigmentation.

Can baking soda remove scars?

No evidence suggests that baking soda can fade the appearance of scars. However, it is abrasive and may exfoliate the skin, improving the scar’s appearance to some extent.

Are home remedies effective for every type of scar?

No, while home remedies may help reduce the appearance of many scars, their effectiveness varies depending on the scar type and severity.

Illustration: Best Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Facial Scars Naturally

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Unlock the secrets to remove the scars on your face! Dive into this insightful video that reveals effective methods and tips for reducing the appearance of scars and achieving a flawless skin texture.

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

PatrickMD, FACS

   

Dr. Patrick Hsu is a board-certified plastic surgeon and reconstructive microsurgeon with 10 years of experience. He is also the founder of Memorial Plastic Surgery. He was born and raised in Short Hills, New Jersey, and knew even as a young boy that he wanted to be a surgeon.

Read full bio of Patrick

Eshna DasAssociate Editor

 

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

Read full bio of Eshna Das

Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

Read full bio of Ramona Sinha

Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.

Read full bio of Swathi E