Acne scars are the pits, pockmarks and other blemishes like hyperpigmented skin left behind when acne has healed. Most of these scars will still be clearly visible even after a year since the last acne breakout, which means that acne scars are as unwanted and unwelcome as acne itself.
Fortunately, there are medical and natural ways to remove acne scars as effectively as possible. Most of these methods are designed for mild cases with the surgical procedures and skin resurfacing being applied to severe acne scars. The methods described here are the natural ones sans the surgical procedures, which are discussed in another article.
OTC (over-the-counter) Acne Scar Treatments
Drugstores, pharmacies and online sites are chockfull of over-the-counter scar treatments that target the brown or red skin marks left after the acne has been cured. Keep in mind that for the crater and ice pick categories of acne scars, the doctors are the best resources for treatment.
Even with mild cases, doctors always advise sufferers to only use non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic moisturizers on the affected areas. This helps to keep the skin hydrated and adequately nourished in order to maintain good skin health, which in turn improves the skins appearance and lessons the scarring effect.
A triple antibiotic ointment is also recommended since it fights off any recurrence of bacteria while lessening the appearance of acne scars. Apply the ointment only on the affected areas, leave it on overnight and wash in the morning.
For lightening the appearance of the hyper-pigmented skin, oxygenated water can also be used. Using oxygenated water will cause color differences between healthy skin and scarred skin, but this is only temporary, and by the morning it will have faded away entirely.
Herbal Formulas
Herbs and essential oils can also help in the lightening, if not complete removal, of acne scars. A doctor must be consulted before actual use of these herbs ands essential oils to preclude any allergies that can lead to acne breakouts.
Aloe vera gel has been used for centuries to bring back healthy skin. Ready-to-use topical aloe vera is available in many stores and sites.
Honey has antibacterial properties and it also helps to soften the skin. Apply honey on the affected area, massage gently for a few minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water.
Olive oil is not considered the miracle oil for nothing. Its moisturizing property softens the skin’s texture and, hence, lessens the prominent look of the acne scars.
Rosehip seed oil is one of the most common of all the essential oils used for acne scar removal, and it has the added benefit of reducing wrinkles, rejuvenating the skin and preventing sun damage. This oil should be gently massaged into the affected area twice each
Tomatoes are an abundant source of Vitamin A, which is also present in its derivative forms in medications like retinol. Its main effect is in stimulating collagen production, thus, healing the skin of its scars. Just slice up a tomato and place on the scars at least 2 times a day.
It is possible to smooth out acne scars with the abovementioned methods. The trick then is to prevent any future breakouts to give the scars time to heal but this topic is also covered in another article.
Learn more about treatments for acne and acne prevention. Stop by RemediesForAcne.com where you can find out all about alternative acne cures and how they can help you get the smooth skin you deserve.