Scars are a natural part of the body’s healing process. Any trauma on the skin, whether caused by cuts, burns, bites or scrapes, will almost always result in some degree of scarring.
While scarring might be a sign of the body’s healthy wound healing mechanism, they can at times be unsightly and difficult to hide. Because of this, scars can mar our looks and ruin our confidence.
There are various commercial creams and lotions available to help you get rid of your scars, but they can be quite expensive. Try these following remedies and watch your unsightly scar lighten up and disappear with consistency and patience.
1. Lemon juice
Lemon juice has a bleaching effect on skin, hence helping to remove scars and blemishes. Cut a lemon in half and rub the juicy part on the scar. You will notice your scar lightening up in a few days.
2. Aloe vera
According to the Huntington College of Health Sciences, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help lessen surface swelling, alleviate skin irritations and help your wounds slough off dead skin. It also helps repair damaged skin cells by penetrating deeply into the skin, moisturizing it and helping increase the production of collagen to promote healing.
Take an aloe vera leaf and cut it lengthwise. Squeeze out the gel and apply this on the scar.
3. Honey
The journal of the Gulf Heart Association, Heart Views, reports that using honey in treating wounds is beneficial because of its antibacterial properties and it stimulates the growth of new tissues. Consequently, this helps in the fading of scars.
Raw honey is said to have more therapeutic effects than processed honey. Rub honey twice a day onto the scar. With regular use, the scar should fade away.
4. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that help reduce scars. Tea tree oil is very potent. Do not try using this remedy without diluting it first. When applying on scars, create a mixture of 25% oil and 75% warm water. Add more water if this solution feels too strong. Alternatively, you may substitute water with aloe vera if you have sensitive skin.
5. Lavender oil
Lavender oil is one of the few essential oils that can be used directly on the skin. Apply and massage a few drops of lavender oil directly onto the scar two to three times a day. Lavender oil is gentle enough to be applied on cuts and minor burns, consequently reducing the risk of leaving marks or scars.
6. Flaxseed oil
Flax seed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help in reducing old and new scars. Apply flax seed oil onto the scar a few times a day, including after you take a shower and before bedtime.
7. Rosehip seed oil
Rosehip seed oil is a common ingredient in cosmetics, especially in scar removal creams. It is rich in retinoic acid and vitamin A, which is helpful in diminishing scar pigmentation and promotes the repair of damaged skin. Apply rosehip seed oil directly onto the skin for at least twice a day.
8. Olive oil
Massage olive oil on to the affected area. Olive oil will help speed up the healing process so the scar fades quickly. It also helps keep the skin moisturized.
9. Tomatoes
Tomatoes also have a bleaching effect when applied on the skin. Slice a tomato and apply onto the scar, making sure you get the juice out or you may use tomato juice instead.
10. Apple cider vinegar
Dab a piece of cotton in apple cider vinegar and pat this onto the scar. Leave for 15-20 minutes then rinse off with soap and water. Follow this therapy several times a day. Add water to the vinegar if it’s too strong.
