Scars are a natural occurrence. They appear as a result of your body healing after skin trauma. In most cases, scars appear after acne.
When your body heals acne, scars are left behind. But scars also appear as a result of healing an injury, surgery, or any other skin trauma. The first question many people have once they notice scars is how to remove scars.
Well, there is no way to make scars disappear completely. However, there are cosmetic and natural ways to diminish them. It is up to you to choose the best treatment for your scars.
Chapter Overview
Types of Scars
What treatment you chose to remove scars largely depends on the type of scars you have. Scars can come in different sizes and shapes. You need to know the type of scar so that you can easily determine your treatment method.
Here are the most common scars:
- Keloid scars, usually appearing after an injury. They are firm, and pink or dark red in color. Keloid scars are a result of extra collagen under your skin and can extend beyond the area of the initial injury. But they appear at the injury spot initially
- Hypertrophic scars are similar in appearance to keloid scars, but they do not spread beyond the affected area. They are commonly mistaken for keloid scars. The good news is they are easier to treat. Hypertrophic scars are raised and often red in color
- Contracture scar appears when you suffer a severe burn. Often deep, they can tighten your skin, and restrict movement
Medical Scar Treatment Options
When you ask how to remove scars, there are two ways you can do it. One path is cosmetic and medical, and the other is a natural path.
Let’s start with the cosmetic effective scar treatment options first. All of these treatments have been recommended by dermatologists.
- Surgical procedure – the most invasive type of treatment. Doctors usually recommend surgical procedure as a last resort when nothing else works. Your doctor will examine the scar, and perform a surgical procedure to make the scar less visible, for example, reducing the size of a wide scar or take skin from another part and place it over the scarred area
- Laser scar removal – effective and non-invasive treatment option, dermatologists often use a laser to reduce the size, color, and shape of scars. There are different types of lasers, and they work on different types of scars
- Fillers – any substance like collagen, fat, or hyaluronic acid can be used to fill out certain types of acne scars. Fillers are eventually absorbed into the skin, so you have to repeat filler injections, usually after every few months. It all depends on the product used
- Skin grafting – your doctor uses a small piece of normal skin to fill in an area of scarred skin. In most cases, skin grafts are taken from skin beyond the ear
- Chemical peels – performed by dermatologists, the procedure requires placing a chemical solution over the area with scars. Once the peel is removed, a layer of skin lifts away and reveals a smoother layer of skin. You need multiple treatments to achieve scar removal
- Dermabrasion – popular method, experts use a machine that looks like a small sander to smooth away the top layer of your skin. The technique is similar to a chemical peel, and it is often the best option for a raised scar
- Micro-dermabrasion – a less invasive type of dermabrasion, professionals uses a spray of small crystals instead of a high-speed brush to remove the surface skin. Same as dermabrasion, more than one treatment is required
- Injections – steroid injections work similarly as fillers, and they can shrink the size of the scar when it rises above your skin
- Ointments – over the counter, scar removal creams and ointments can help with minor scarring. In most cases, dermatologists recommend using retinoic acid, applied directly to the scar to reduce its appearance. Great for keloid scars
Can You Try Natural Remedies?
Natural remedies can be a good option for helping scars heal and fade away. These remedies often provide moisturizing and soothing benefits to the skin, which can aid in the healing process. Let’s explore some popular natural remedies for scar removal.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, making it an excellent choice for sunburns and scar treatment. It can help reduce swelling and redness, and as a natural astringent, remove dead skin cells. To use aloe vera on scars, simply extract some gel from the plant and apply it to the affected area. Cover with plastic wrap for 20 minutes before removing.
Coconut Oil
While many oils can provide moisturizing benefits, coconut oil is known to penetrate deeper than other oils, such as olive oil. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, coconut oil helps the skin heal while providing ample moisture. To use, dab some coconut oil onto the affected area and let your skin absorb it, no rinsing required.
Honey
As a natural moisturizer, honey can promote tissue regeneration, making it a popular ingredient in remedies for various skin issues. Apply raw honey directly to the scarred area, or mix it with cinnamon for a rejuvenating treatment that leaves the skin smooth and clear.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells while balancing the skin’s pH levels. To use baking soda for scar treatment, mix one part baking soda with two parts water and create a paste. Gently scrub the paste onto the affected area for a minute or two before rinsing thoroughly.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is a highly effective natural moisturizer, also known for its ability to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Simply apply shea butter daily to the scarred area for a boost of moisture, and it can even help brighten the skin.
Turmeric Powder
Turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce excess melanin production, treat skin discoloration, and promote a healthy glow. It also acts as an antiseptic to prevent irritation. Combine equal parts honey and turmeric and apply the mixture to the skin for 20 minutes, then rinse with water.
Onion Extract
Onions contain bioflavonoids, which are antioxidants that aid in skin repair, healing, rejuvenation, and refreshment. Onion extract can significantly reduce the appearance of scars with consistent daily use. Gently rub onion extract onto the scarred area for a few minutes, then rinse with water.
Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, can provide additional healing benefits. Mix your preferred essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil to create a gentle, aromatic moisturizer that can help heal scars when applied to the affected area.