Written by

The Ultimate Guide to Treating Acne Scars Naturally at Home

Treating Acne Scars naturally at home guide

It can be tough when you look in the mirror and see those marks left behind by acne, a reminder of breakouts past. It’s understandable if these scars make you feel self-conscious or embarrassed about your skin. Acne scars can take a real emotional toll, affecting your self-confidence.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of acne scars and how you can treat them naturally at home. Options are available that may help diminish these marks and help you regain confidence in your skin.

Understanding Acne Scars

What are Acne Scars?

Acne scars are marks that remain after acne blemishes have healed. These scars are a common skin problem found on the face, chest, or back. Acne scars can be a source of frustration, as they are a visual reminder of past breakouts.

Why Do Acne Scars Occur?

Acne scars can occur for a few different reasons. Here are some of the key factors:

  • Genetics: If a blood relative struggles with acne scarring, there is a chance that you might, too.
  • Inflammatory acne: Scarring is most common in those who suffer from inflammatory acne that is characterized by numerous pimples and cysts. Scar development has a lot to do with the extent and duration of skin inflammation. Delaying acne treatment raises the risk of scarring.
  • Picking at pimples: Irritating a pimple by picking at it will only inflame your skin more, increasing the chances of a scar.
  • Deep skin damage: Any type of acne can leave a lasting mark, but scarring is more likely if the acne goes deep into your skin. For instance, nodules, which feel like hard lumps under your skin, and cysts, which are full of pus and can be painful to the touch, are both likely to leave scarring.

Types of Acne Scars

types of acne scars

There are several types of acne scars, each with distinct characteristics:

  • Atrophic scars: These scars are indentations in the skin that occur due to a loss of tissue. There are different types of atrophic scars:
    • Ice pick scars: These are small, narrow, deep scars that look like pinpricks on the skin.
    • Boxcar scars: These are round to oval depressions with sharp, clear, vertical edges.
    • Rolling scars: These scars have uneven edges that give the skin a rolling or undulating appearance. Dermal tethering of the dermis to the subcutis characterizes rolling scars.
  • Hypertrophic Scars: These scars are raised due to excess collagen production. They appear as red, firm, raised papules.
    • Keloid scars: These are similar to hypertrophic scars but tend to be thicker than the original acne spot. Keloid scars are enlarged, raised growths of tissue.

How to Identify an Acne Scar

To identify an acne scar, here are some key signs to look for:

  • Red, raised bumps. These can be hypertrophic scars or keloids, which are caused by too much scar tissue.
  • Depressed or “sunken in” areas. These are also known as atrophic scars. Examples include:
  • Boxcar scars: Larger, round to oval depressions with sharply demarcated vertical edges.
  • Rolling scars: Wide depressions that give the skin an undulating appearance.
  • Ice pick scars: Narrow, small, deep pits in the skin.
  • Small pits on the skin. These can be ice pick scars, which are deeper than boxcar scars.

It’s worth noting that acne scars occur in spots where pimples were previously located.

Natural Remedies for Acne Scars

It’s understandable to seek natural ways to improve acne scars from the comfort of your home. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what these remedies can achieve.

Efficacy of Natural Remedies

  • Acne scars result from changes in the amount and structure of collagen and elastic fibers in the skin.
  • While many people prefer to use natural remedies to help clear up the appearance of acne scars, it’s good to know that natural remedies may not be as effective as medical treatments. In cases of stubborn or severe scarring, consulting a dermatologist is highly suggested.
  • Keep in mind that “natural” doesn’t always mean better for your skin. Natural treatments may have some benefits for superficial and minor scarring; however, for deep skin lesions and scarring, they may cause more harm than good. It is important to be aware of things like irritation or soreness and stop using them if you experience any of these symptoms.

Specific Natural Remedies

natural remedies for acne scars
  • Aloe Vera: Applying aloe vera directly to wounds reduced inflammation and scar tissue size.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Diluted apple cider vinegar may help reduce the appearance of acne scars.
  • Black Seed Oil: In addition to having antibacterial and antiviral properties, black seed oil is anti-inflammatory. Studies have found that black seed oil can speed up and improve wound healing, even out pigmentation, or even prevent acne altogether.
  • Coconut Oil: Studies have reported that coconut oil moisturizes your skin and prevents acne scars. If you have extremely oily skin, you should avoid this option, as it may worsen the situation. Use cold-pressed coconut oil for this condition.
  • Honey: Research indicates that honey can speed wound healing, reducing the potential for scarring. Directly applying honey can help with wound clearing and wound cleansing because of its antibacterial properties. It can also fight infections that could otherwise cause more acne to appear.
  • Manuka Honey: Applying Manuka honey is a good option, as it has great anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. For dark marks and pigmented skin, apply apple cider vinegar with a cotton bud to the scar and then apply the honey straight afterwards to help soothe the area.
  • Rosehip Seed Oil: One study indicated that rosehip seed oil could treat scars. Researchers found that applying it twice daily reduced the appearance of scars and discoloration.
  • Turmeric Powder: Turmeric Powder has anti-inflammatory properties and can be great for reducing bacterial growth. It also helps skin regeneration and reduces scarring.

How to Use Natural Remedies

Here’s how to use some of the previously mentioned natural remedies:

Direct application to the skin:

  • Aloe vera: Apply aloe vera directly to wounds to reduce inflammation and scar tissue size.
  • Black Seed Oil: Apply it directly to the skin, which may speed up wound healing and improve pigmentation
  • Coconut Oil: Apply cold-pressed coconut oil to moisturize your skin and prevent acne scars, but avoid it if you have oily skin.
  • Honey: Apply honey directly, which can help with wound clearing and cleansing because of its antibacterial properties.
  • Manuka Honey: Apply it straight to help soothe dark marks and pigmented skin.
  • Turmeric Powder: Apply it, which may reduce bacterial growth, help skin regeneration, and reduce scarring.

Dilution:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Dilute it well before applying it to help reduce the appearance of scars. Concentrated apple cider vinegar can cause severe burns and further harm to the face.

Precautions

Here are some precautions to consider when using natural remedies for acne scars, as well as guidance on when to seek professional help:

  • Some remedies may irritate. Be aware of things like irritation or soreness, as “natural” doesn’t always mean better for your skin.
  • Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Stop using natural remedies if you experience any irritation or other adverse symptoms.
  • Be cautious, as the science behind remedies is unclear. The effectiveness of natural remedies is not always supported by scientific evidence.

When to See a Dermatologist

If natural remedies are ineffective. Natural treatments may have some benefits for superficial and minor scarring; however, for deep skin lesions and scarring, they may cause more harm than good.

Before trying new treatments. Consulting a professional skin care expert is highly suggested to avoid potentially further aggravating the skin.

For stubborn or severe scarring. Consulting a dermatologist about professional medical treatments will ensure any adverse side effects of home remedies are avoided and give the best chance of achieving the acne-free skin.

Other Home Treatments and Prevention

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products

Other Home Treatments for acne scars
  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): AHAs, such as glycolic and lactic acids, may help minimize the appearance of old scars while simultaneously preventing the formation of new acne. They stimulate the growth of new skin, exfoliate the outer layer, and reveal fresh, new skin underneath.
  • Azelaic Acid: This can help reduce redness or dark spots. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to reduce redness while keeping acne-causing bacteria in check.
  • Retinoids: Topical retinoids can both prevent and reduce the appearance of acne scars. They speed up cell regeneration, improve skin texture, reduce discoloration, and help make scars less noticeable. Regular use of a topical retinoid like tretinoin (Retin-A), adapalene (Differin), or tazarotene (Tazorac) is often prescribed by dermatologists as part of an acne skin-care regimen.
  • Salicylic Acid: This ingredient clears pores, reduces swelling and redness, and exfoliates the skin when applied topically. It can be found in various acne treatments, including pads, spot treatments, lotions, and face cleansers. Salicylic acid peels help clear dirt, skin cells, and other debris that lead to acne from the skin’s pores.
  • Sunscreen: Wearing sunscreen every day is vital because sun exposure can darken scars, making them more noticeable. Daily UVA/UVB sun exposure also inhibits collagen rebuilding and healthy cell turnover needed for depressed scars to heal smoothly.

Gentle Skincare Routine

  • Avoid abrasive products: Don’t use abrasive skin-care products like scrubs, loofahs, or washcloths.
  • Use non-comedogenic moisturizers: Hydrating the skin with non-comedogenic moisturizers enables faster healing with less irritation.
  • Treat breakouts early: Clearing up your skin as soon as breakouts happen is the best way to prevent acne scars. Since reducing skin inflammation can lessen scars, don’t ignore an acne problem even if it’s mild.

Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Healthy Diet: Following a healthy diet can be a helpful way to prevent acne scars. Some studies show that foods that quickly raise your blood sugar, such as white bread, white potatoes, and cornflakes, can make acne worse◦
  • Avoid picking at acne: Don’t pick at your acne, and avoid practices that could irritate your skin and exacerbate inflammation. It’s tempting to pick, poke, or squeeze pimples, but this makes swelled pores rupture deeper in the skin, spreading bacteria, juices, and debris into surrounding tissue

Takeaway

The acne scars can be frustrating, but there are various treatment options available to make them less noticeable.

Key points to remember:

  • Early treatment and prevention are crucial. Treating acne promptly and reducing skin inflammation can lessen the likelihood of scarring.
  • Consult a dermatologist to discover the best treatment options tailored to your individual needs. They can assess the type and severity of your scars and recommend appropriate treatments.

As discussed, treatment options include:

  • Over-the-counter remedies:
    • Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) stimulate new skin growth.
    • Azelaic acid can reduce redness and dark spots.
    • Retinoids can prevent and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
    • Salicylic acid clears pores, reduces swelling, and exfoliates the skin.
    • Sunscreen prevents scars from darkening
  • Medical treatments:
    • Chemical peels remove the outer layer of skin.
    • Dermal fillers can help with rolling and boxcar scars.
    • Laser treatments resurface the skin.
    • Microneedling stimulates collagen production.
    • Surgery can remove severe scars or cysts.

Lifestyle adjustments such as a healthy diet and avoiding picking at acne are also important in preventing acne scars.

Sources suggest natural remedies such as aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, black seed oil, coconut oil, honey, manuka honey, rosehip seed oil and turmeric powder may improve acne scars. Note that the science behind these remedies is unclear.

Sources:
Noble Home Remedies relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations for accuracy and reliability while avoiding tertiary references. Our editorial policy provides more information about how we ensure our content is accurate and up-to-date. 
Trust in your purchase:
Every product featured on our site has been carefully researched and selected based on quality, customer ratings, and positive reviews to ensure you receive excellent value for your money.
Please note:
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our site and allows us to continue bringing you valuable content. Thank you!

Thank you for your precious time spent with NobleHomeRemedies.

You may also like:

Coconut oil for Pinworms

Coconut Oil for Pinworms

Coconut Oil for Pinworms: The Natural Solution You Need Pinworms are a common parasitic infection…

Spread the love