Home Remedies For Getting Rid Of Scars

Scar tissue may not be pretty, but it performs a necessary function. As the skin's new connective tissue, it helps cuts, burns, surgical incisions, chicken pox, acne and other skin conditions to close and heal. Home remedies can effectively minimize the intensity of scars and relieve the pain of keloids--hard, tender growths above the skin surface associated with scarring.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera, a plant with antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, also contains zinc and vitamins C and E, all nutrients shown to improve wound healing and scarring. "The Doctors' Book of Home Remedies" notes that while commercial aloe vera preparations lose effectiveness, the aloe vera plant offers significant healing powers.
After thoroughly cleansing the area, simply cut off a leaf and slit it open with a knife. Take out the gel with a spoon, and apply the aloe to your scar once a day. According to GrannyMed.com, the gel will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week if stored in an airtight container.

Lime Juice

Lime juice helps to remove dead skin cells and regenerate new cells. OrganicFacts.net advises that the natural bleaching properties of lime juice lessen a scar's visibility and help maintain the skin's elasticity.
Apply the juice of one freshly squeezed lime directly on the scar. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes, then wash off with warm water. Repeat the application twice daily for two to three weeks.

Chickweed Compress

A compress made with the chickweed herb softens and minimizes scars, reports Norma Pasekoff Weinberg in the book "Alternative Cures."
Gather 1 cup of fresh chickweed, wrap it in a clean washcloth, and crush it with a rolling pin. Fill an 8-oz. jar with the crushed chickweed. Pour enough sunflower oil into the jar to cover the chickweed. Pour an additional 1/2 inch of oil on top, as the chickweed will swell. Cover the jar with a lid, and store it in a cool, dark place. After approximately two weeks, strain the oil through a clean paper coffee filter, and pour the oil in a tinted glass bottle. Put a lid on the bottle, date it and store it in the refrigerator for six months. Soak a clean cotton washcloth in the aged chickweed compress and apply it on the scar for 20 minutes twice daily until you notice visible results. According to Weinberg, a chickweed compress is also beneficial for boils, rashes and eczema.

Petroleum Jelly

Like the more costly alternative of onion extract gel, petroleum jelly acts to inhibit the overproduction of collagen in scar tissue, claims GrannyMed.com. Cleanse the area, dab your finger into the jelly, and apply to the scar twice daily.