Few home remedies can reliably eliminate scar tissue. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, most scars will fade and become less noticeable after several weeks, months or years, but several factors can affect this. The depth of a wound, its location and your genetics may all influence how you scar and how well your skin recovers. Consider using these home remedies to get rid of a scar. If it is extremely noticeable or uncomfortable, talk to a dermatologist about clinical treatment options.
Step 1
Apply topical corticosteroid cream, such as hydrocortisone, directly to the scar site. Also known as cortisol, hydrocortisone is a natural, anti-inflammatory compound produced in the body as a response to stress. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this home remedy can help to eliminate itching and flaking, so you are less likely to scratch and worsen the scar. Itch-relieving ointments are particularly useful for keloid scars and scars related to eczema or psoriasis.
Step 2
Use Mederma, a non-prescription scar treatment made from onion bulb, four times daily on the site of the scar. A report in the animal study "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" states that Mederma can enhance collagen production and potentially reduce the appearance of a scar. However, the study was inconclusive. Scar reduction was only clearly apparent at a microscopic level. This treatment is most effective if it is used as soon as possible after a scar's formation.
Step 3
Apply silicone gel sheets, which are available at some pharmacies, to the site of your scar. Begin by applying these sheets to the scar for four hours, then apply them for two hours per day for two to four months. The University of Maryland Medical Center considers this to be the only reliable home method for reducing the appearance of a scar. It can reduce swelling and pigmentation in swollen, raised scars such as keloids.
Tips and Warnings
- Vitamin E applications may worsen a scar by chapping and irritating the surrounding skin.
- Do not use any home treatment without a doctors' supervision if you have a chronic skin condition, such as ichthyosis or psoriasis.
Things You'll Need
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Onion bulb ointment
- Silicone gel sheets
Member Comments