Laser treatments, dermabrasion, surgical treatments and tissue fillers such as collagen are the most common treatments for acne scars, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although these treatments work, they are costly and somewhat invasive. But some natural home remedies can help you get rid of dark acne scars. These remedies have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, though, so consult your doctor before starting any home treatment.
Lemon Juice, Lime Juice, Vinegar and Jojoba Oil
A mixture of lemon juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar and jojoba oil can be applied to the skin to help get rid of dark acne scars, according to Julie Gabriel, author of "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup and Fragrances." To make and use the mixture, combine 1 tbsp. lemon juice, 1 tbsp. lime juice, ½ tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 4 tbsp. jojoba oil in a small container or bowl. Shake or stir to combine and dab a small amount on the affected area. Leave the mixture on until it dries, about 20 to 25 minutes. Rinse with cool water and wash with a gentle cleanser before applying a moisturizer if you use one. This treatment can be repeated on a daily basis unless redness or irritation occurs, and unused portions can be kept in the refrigerator for up two 48 hours.
Lavender and Graperfruit Essential Oils, Avocado Oil and Milk
A mixture of lavender essential oil, grapefruit essential oil, avocado oil and milk can be applied to the skin to help lighten acne scars, according to Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy." To use this mixture, combine ½ tsp. lavender essential oil, ½ tsp. graperfruit essential oil, 4 tbsp. avocado oil and 1 tbsp. whole milk in a small bowl and stir to combine. Gently massage a small amount of the mixture into the skin and leave it on until nearly dry, about 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse with cool, clean water and wash with a gentle cleanser. This treatment can be repeated daily unless it irritates your skin. Unused portions can be kept in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
Honey, Brown Sugar and Cream Scrub
According to Gabriel, a scrub made of honey, brown sugar and heavy cream can help to reduce the appearance of dark acne scars. To make and use this mixture, combine 1 tbsp. honey, 1 tbsp. brown sugar and ½ tbsp. heavy cream in a small container with a tight fitting lid and shake gently to combine. Massage into the skin and leave on for five minutes before rinsing with cool water. Wash with your regular cleanser and apply moisturizer if you use one. This treatment can be repeated twice daily as long as it does not bother your skin, and unused portions can be kept in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
References
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Ann Worwood; 1991
- Mayo Clinic: Acne: What's the Best Treatment for Acne Scars
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