Fibrous tissue, or scar tissue, is your body’s attempt to repair what has been damaged. It’s a natural part of healing that takes a lot of time and patience. However, there is something you can try to do to help the process and improve the appearance of scarred tissue.
We have found these 10 useful tips for those of you who would rather forget about bike accidents, clumsy shaving experiences, or painful surgeries and would like to make those reminders on their bodies fade away.
10. Vaseline
According to studies, Vaseline proved to be quite an effective and reliable remedy in comparison with expensive creams and serums. Applied 3 times daily for 1 to 3 weeks, this ointment helps you keep your skin hydrated, so scarred skin appears less dry and rough.
Best for:
- atrophic scars, left over chicken pox, and acne;
- stretch marks.
9. Pure Aloe Vera gel
Aloe Vera has been used for centuries for its amazing therapeutic properties. Aloe Vera leaves contain a gel-like substance that promotes the skin regeneration process and has an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect on damaged skin. Apply Aloe Vera gel (just scoop it out of a leaf) directly on the scar, massaging in circular motions. Leave on for 30 minutes and wash it off. Apply twice a day and be consistent.
Best for:
- cesarean and other postsurgical scars.
8. Silicone
If you have hypertrophic scars and keloids, you can also try some special bandages like silicone sheeting pads or self-drying silicone gel. Silicone-containing remedies increase hydration and protect scarred skin from bacteria. As a result, scarred tissue appears flatter and softer. You can start using silicone sheets 2 weeks after your wound has healed (12–24 hours a day for at least 2 months). Silicone gel should be applied twice a day until noticeable results are achieved.
Best for:
- hypertrophic scars;
- keloids.
7. Essential oils (sandalwood oil and lavender oil)
Essential oils in general promote collagen synthesis and carry antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and healing properties. Sandalwood and lavender essential oils, in particular, can support the healing and regenerative processes if used regularly. Try massaging essential oils into your scar and notice how it gradually becomes less noticeable.
Best for:
- all types of scars.
6. Massage
Another great and affordable way to help your scarred skin heal faster is to try to massage the area with lotion. If you gently massage the scar for 15-30 seconds a few times a day, it’ll help break down the dense bands of collagen that attach to underlying tissue.
Best for:
- keloid scars;
- cesarean scars and other surgical scars.
5. Sunscreen
If you want to help your scarred skin heal, never expose it to aggressive ultraviolet rays. They slow the regenerative process and “help” your cells produce pigment, causing dark spots and discoloration. Always use your favorite sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
Best for:
- all kinds of scars and especially acne scars.
4. Onion extract
Due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, onion extract-based topical gels may significantly reduce the height and soften scarred tissue without side effects. Try using onion extract gel on hypertrophic scars 3 times a day during the early postsurgical period.
Best for:
- burn scars;
- hypertrophic scars from surgical wounds.
3. Apple cider vinegar + honey
Due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, apple cider vinegar is widely used as a natural disinfectant and astringent. It won’t help you get rid of those old ance scars completely, but it will surely reduce them so they are not as noticeable. To aviod redness and inflammation mix apple cider vinegar with raw honey, apply to the scars, and rinse after 10 minutes.
Best for:
- acne scars.
2. Oils (olive oil and coconut oil)
Natural plant oils have a wide range of great therapeutic effects. Coconut oil, for example, contains lauric, caprylic and capric acids, which help heal damaged skin by stimulating collagen production. Olive oil is rich in vital vitamins that promote the healing process of acne scars, keeping your skin hydrated and nourished. Try massaging the scar with olive or coconut oil for 5-10 minutes several times a day until you get the desired result.
Best for:
- acne scars.
1. Vitamin C
This may sound surprising but it’s vitamin C, not vitamin E, as many of us believe, that may gradually improve the appearance of scars. To boost the synthesis of collagen, our skin needs vitamin C. It also helps improve skin elasticity, reduces redness, and promotes wound healing. Doctors recommend both internal (drinks) and topical (creams) use.
Best for:
- acne scars;
- fine surgical scars.
Bonus
The good news is that many scars fade over the time, but if you have a deep, old scar that won’t go away, you should consult your doctor because no scar can be completely eliminated without serious invasive procedures. But as they say, prevention is better than cure. So, here’s what you can do to your wound to prevent bad scars:
- Keep the wound clean and moist by applying a moisturizing ointment.
- Always cover the wound with an adhesive bandage.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and apply sunscreen.
- Don’t use any treatments on an open wound.
- Don’t pick a scab off your healing wound.
- Get some exercise.
- Be consistent and patient.
