When your skin has a surface injury, it will often develop a scar. Genetics, age, skin tone, wound care and the severity of your injury all play a part in the color and depth of your scar and how long it will remain on your body. While most scars fade over time, certain products and methods can help speed up this process. Ask your health care provider what scar-fading solutions would work best for your skin.
Hydroquinone
If you have darker skin or your scars are brownish in tone, you may be able to fade them with hydroquinone, a cream that bleaches the skin. It works by reducing the amount of pigment cells, or melanin, that your skin produces, causing your skin to become lighter over time. You should notice your scars begin to fade after about four weeks of daily application, and a doctor must prescribe hydroquinone to you. While most people do not experience adverse reactions to this product, it can cause itching or stinging. Stop using it if these or other symptoms develop.
Chemical Peels
For shallow scars that are pink or red in tone, a chemical peel may be best. In this process, a dermatologist applies a glycolic acid or other chemical solution to your skin, which removes the top layer. This will even out both your skin's tone and texture, leaving the scar smoother and less noticeable. Your doctor may use a stronger concentration of the acid, depending on how severe your scars are, and you may need to have several treatments to achieve the desired results.
Sunscreen
No matter what solution you pick for fading your scars, keeping them out of the sun and wearing sunscreen every day is paramount, Sun exposure can make your scars darker and thereby decrease the efficacy of your scar-fading efforts. Smooth on a broad-spectrum sunscreen each morning before going outside, and reapply it throughout the day if you remain outdoors. If possible, keep your scar covered with clothing to provide additional protection.
Considerations
While many creams and chemical peels can help your scars fade, it is unlikely they will make them disappear entirely. If you develop any kind of skin reaction to a product you are using, stop applying it and get medical attention. You can also use skin-toned makeup to camouflage your scars while waiting for them to fade. Concealers and foundations designed for your face can be applied to scars all over your body.
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