Home treatment for scarring is important to help minimize the visibility of scar tissue. Scars are a natural part of the skin's healing process and are expected after any type of injury, burn or incision on the skin. Your age, sex, heredity and general health may play a role in how your body responds to scarring.
Four Types of Scars
There are four types of scar formations:
- Hypertrophic scars: Associated with burns
- Contracture scars: Similar to keloid scars, except they are red and raised
- Acne scars: Generally deep and pit-like in appearance
- Keloid scars: Includes surgical and deep wound scars
Home Treatment for Scarring: Methods and Products
Whether you have scars from picking acne or pimples, or have suffered an injury or accident that left behind telltale scar tissue, you can try home treatment for scarring. While individual results may vary depending on the depth and severity of the scar, the following types of scars are the most likely to have success from home fading methods:
- Pimple or acne
- Stretch marks
- Sores and cuts
- Sunburn
Due to the nature and depth of the injured tissue, most surgical scars will not benefit in entirety from home methods. Keloid scars are the result of an aggressive healing pattern. Surgical, freezing, laser and on-site injections may treat keloid scars better than home treatments. In addition, hypertrophic scars caused by burns benefit best from skin grafting and other intensive medical procedures.
Your physician or therapist, may, however suggest certain home treatment options to minimize scarring. One common method is to massage the scarred area daily with vitamin e, cocoa butter, or regular lotion. This might be done for four to six weeks following surgery.
Types of Home Treatment
The following natural methods are rumored to work in fading and minimizing scar tissue. Bear in mind results may vary depending on the depth and severity of the scarred tissue formation.
- Lemon juice works as a natural lightener and bleach. Apply daily to lighten scarred areas.
- Lavender essential oil applied twice per day on a cotton ball may help heal scars.
- Apply honey daily and reap a healthy glow along with scar minimization.
- Toothpaste is believed to help cure scars. Apply daily.
- Apply Vitamin E oil directly onto the scar tissue to assist healing.
- Shea or cocoa butter
Products for Home Treatment
If you'd rather take the Western approach to medicine rather than a natural remedy, you can try one of several skin creams that are marketed to help heal and fade scars. Available over the counter or by prescription, the following list of products have helped many people conceal their skin:
Practice Prevention
To minimize the effects and visibility of scar tissue, it helps to treat any wounded area promptly. Applying aloe vera gel, cocoa butter or shea butter daily to the affected area will help prevent permanent scar tissue in some instances.
Seek Professional Treatment
For scars that can't be cleared with at-home treatment methods, consider booking an appointment with a dermatologist for additional treatment options. Laser, dermabrasion, silicone sheeting and collagen injections are additional treatment options for scar patients. No matter which route you choose, you'll need to stay committed to application and treatment products in order to achieve the best results over time.
