According to the Mayo Clinic, the best treatments for acne scars include laser treatments, dermabrasion, surgery and tissue fillers. While these treatments work, they are often quite costly and may not be necessary for some scarring, as home remedies can be used in some cases to reduce the visibility of acne scars over time. These treatments have not been approved by the FDA however, so consult your doctor or dermatologist before starting any new home treatment.
Essential Oils
According to Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy,” a mixture made of lemon essential oil, orange essential oil and coconut oil can be applied to acne scars to reduce their visibility. To make and use this mixture, combine one part lemon essential oil, one part orange essential oil and twenty parts coconut oil in a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting top. Shake or stir the mixture to combine it thoroughly and let it infuse for eight hours. Shake again gently and dab a small amount onto a clean cotton ball. Press the cotton ball onto the affected area and leave the mixture on the skin for 20 minutes before rinsing with cool water and washing with a gentle cleanser. This treatment can be repeated daily as long as it does not irritate your skin, and unused portions can be kept in a dark, cool place for up to one month.
Garlic and Lime
According to Melanie A. Sachs, author of "Ayurvedic Beauty Care,” a mixture of garlic and fresh lime can be used to help get rid of dark acne scars on the body. To make and use this mixture, combine 4 cloves garlic and ½ peeled lime in a blender or food processor and process on high speed until a thick paste is formed. Apply a thick layer of the mixture to clean skin and leave it on for 15 minutes or until the mixture is almost dry. Rinse the skin with cool water and wash with your regular soap. Repeat this treatment daily as long as it does not cause any irritation or redness. Store unused portions in the refrigerator in a container with a tight-fitting lid for 48 hours if necessary.
Lemon Juice, Cucumber and Olive Oil
According to Jethro Kloss, author of "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies since 1939,” a mixture of lemon juice, cucumber and olive oil can help to get rid of scars from acne. To make and use this mixture, combine 1 tbsp. lemon juice, 1 tbsp. grated cucumber and 1 tbsp. olive oil in a small container and stir to combine. Gently massage the mixture over the affected area over the skin and leave what stays on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse the skin with cool water and wash with a gentle cleanser before patting the skin dry. Repeat this treatment twice per day as long as it does not bother your skin. Unused portions of the mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for 48 to 72 hours.
References
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Ann Worwood; 1991
- "Ayurvedic Beauty Care"; Melanie A. Sachs; 1994
- "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies since 1939"; Jethro Kloss; 2004
- Mayo Clinic: Acne Scars: What's the Best Treatment for Acne Scars?
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