Acne scars are the worst. I think we can all agree on that. Here are ten remedies that you probably have at home right now that can help eliminate your dark spots and acne scars fast.
1. Aloe Vera
Scars heal with moisturizing and soothing treatments, Aloe vera contains these two… and then some. The antioxidants in aloe vera reduce swelling and redness, while its natural astringent removes excess oil and dead cells.
Aloe vera is also great for sunburns (Miami girls know this) and can even be ingested if diluted properly.
The great thing about aloe is that it doesn't really need measurements. If you can find the plant, even better! (Don't worry, it needs minimal upkeep). Just scrape it off the leaf and lather over scar and cover it with some cling film. It might feel weird and sticky but your skin will thank you for it.
2. Coconut oil
Really, any oil can work as long as it’s rich in omega fatty acids, these penetrate and moisturize the skin to restore your skin’s glow.
Coconut oil is especially great for this and is even recommended by avid users to make them a part of your daily regimen.
Our favorite way to use coconut oil? Dab some under your eyes, on your lips, and bare brows in the morning to keep your face looking naturally fresh.
A word of caution for dewy beauties: use coconut oil only on the area you want to treat. Too much coconut oil might just cause a breakout here and there if you don't control your usage.
3. Baking Soda
How can baking soda help with removing scars? By balancing your pH and acting as a natural exfoliator. In doing so, it eliminates dead skin cells and leaves you refreshed without damaging the skin around the scar.
Using two parts water and one part baking soda, make a paste and scrub it on the affected area, rinsing thoroughly and gently after a minute.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Need we say more? Apple cider vinegar has been touted as an all-around natural ingredient for everything from cleaning solutions to skin care.
To treat acne scars, mix it with honey and apply, then leave it on for 10 minutes. Do this up to three times a day for the best results.
Got a pimple coming? Take a Q-tip and soak it in ACV then in water to dilute it just a bit, and dab the swab right on the looming pimple (beware: it might sting for a sec). It’ll help reduce redness and stop any whiteheads from forming.
5. Onion Extract
If you don’t mind a little sting (don’t worry, it goes away quickly) then onion extract is another great option for you.
With bioflavonoids, like cephalin and kaempferol, onion extract has been known to significantly reduce the appearance of scars after only a few weeks, with daily use, of course.
Onion extract is also excellent for fighting acne. It has properties that reduce inflammation, redness, and soreness.
6. Honey
You’ve seen honey on this list more than once for a reason. Its natural moisturizing effects and stimulation of tissue regeneration make it a popular ingredient to mix into your skin care routine.
In its raw form, honey is amazing and the darker it is the more medicinal properties it contains.
Mixing honey with cinnamon is a great renewal treatment that can help keep skin smooth and clear.
7. Lemon
If you want to lighten your scar, lemon is a great choice. It has alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), meaning it has the healing properties your skin needs.
Known as a natural bleach, this lightener aids in new cell growth and gives your skin its elasticity back.
Have your AHA moment with a little lemon. Start by cutting a lemon in half and rub half over the scar; squeeze the lemon to let it soak the scar for about 15 minutes. Dab with cool water to rinse.
Since lemon can make skin sensitive to sunlight, give your scar a fighting chance at healing by using a daily moisturizer with SPF before heading out during the day.
8. Essential Oils
From lavender to tea tree, to carrot seed; the type of essential oil depends on the type of scar you’re dealing with.
Mixing oils is also a great option.
Try mixing apricot oil with neroli, rose, and lavender oil (1-2 drops each) for a gentle and aromatic daily moisturizer to help heal your scar.
Remember to only use essential oils topically and with a carrier oil.
9. Shea Butter
We all know shea butter helps women prevent or eliminate stretch marks, so why wouldn’t it work on scars?
Apply it daily to feel its moisturizing effects brightening your skin.
If you can find unfiltered raw shea butter, use that instead of any refined version. Refined usually means any nutrients have been broken down or destroyed.
Store-bought brands usually irritate because they have added fragrance and other additives.
10. Turmeric Powder
Turmeric is great for acne scars specifically because it contains curcumin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce excess production of melanin, which adds pigmentation to your scar and makes it darker.
This treats discoloration and helps skin glow. It’s also antiseptic so it smooths your skin without irritation.
Use it with some of that honey we mentioned earlier! Just add equal parts honey and turmeric (1 tsp each) and keep it on for about 20 minutes to allow the paste to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
BONUS TIP:
No B.S. Skin Care is a brand born in sunny Miami, FL, so we have embedded in our formulas the wisdom from many different cultures. This exfoliator home recipe comes from South America:
You need: Coconut oil, brown sugar. You can add shea butter, aloe vera, or avocado if you have them handy.
Step 1: Mix 3 spoons of coconut oil, with 1 spoon of brown sugar. Add any other ingredient you want to the mix.
Step 2: You should get a creamy consistence with no lumps (aside from the sugar grains). Apply it all over your face, and gently scrub in circular motion, focusing on the most affected areas. The sugar grains will help removing dead skin cells, but don't scrub too hard or it may leave scratches!
Step 3: Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse with lukewarm water. Repeat once a week.
This combination will leave your skin hydrated, plump, and it will expedite its natural healing process.
