According to MayoClinic.com, minor burns can be treated with home remedies, but more serious burns, especially those to the hands, feet and groin, require immediate medical attention. The scars from burns can be unsightly, and surgical treatments for scar removal are often expensive and invasive. However, some home remedies can help you erase burn scars, though these treatments have not been approved by the FDA, so consult your doctor before trying any home remedies.
Aloe Vera, Honey and Vitamin C Tablets
According to Melanie A. Sachs, author of “Ayurvedic Beauty Care,” a mixture of natural aloe vera gel, honey and crushed vitamin C tablets can be applied to burn scars to help reduce their appearance over time. To make and use this mixture, crush one vitamin C tablet in a mortar and pestle and combine it with 1 tbsp. aloe vera gel and 1 tbsp. natural honey in a small container or bowl, and mix thoroughly. Gently massage a small amount of the mixture on the burn scar and leave it on for 30 minutes or until almost dry. Rinse the skin with cool water and wash with a gentle moisturizer. This treatment can be repeated twice per day as long as it does not irritate your skin or cause extreme redness, and unused portions can be kept in the refrigerator for 48 hours.
Milk, Lemon Juice and Vitamin E Oil
According to Julie Gabriel, author of "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances,” a mixture of milk, lemon juice and vitamin E oil can be applied to the skin as a topical treatment for burn scars. To make and use this mixture, combine 1 tsp. milk, 1 tsp. lemon juice and ½ tsp. vitamin E oil in a small bowl or container, and stir to combine. Gently rub a small amount of the mixture onto the area and leave it on for 1 hour. Rinse the skin with cool water and wash with a very mild cleanser to remove the sugar from the lemon juice. Apply your regular moisturizer if you use one. This treatment can be repeated once per day as long as it does not cause excessive redness or irritation, and unused portions can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Chamomile Tea and Cod Liver
According to Gabriel, a mixture of brewed chamomile tea and cod liver oil can be used to help get rid of scars. To make and use this mixture, combine 2 oz. brewed chamomile tea with 1 tbsp. cod liver oil in a small bowl or container, and shake or stir the mixture to combine it. Gently wash the affected area with the mixture and let the liquid dry naturally on the skin before rinsing with cool water. There is no need to wash the skin after using this treatment unless it bothers your skin. This remedy can be used twice per day as long as it does not cause irritation or redness. Unused portions of the mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for 48 hours.
References
- "Ayurvedic Beauty Care"; Melanie A. Sachs; 1994
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- Mayo Clinic: Burns
