Scars vary in severity, from minor blemishes to disfiguring dips and pits in the skin. If you suffer from scarring, you likely want to find a treatment to lessen their appearance. Though dermatological intervention may be required, many people opt for home remedies using substances like vitamin E or cocoa butter to reduce their scars.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient found in numerous foods including vegetables and fruits. It works as an antioxidant in the body -- meaning, it can protect you from sun damage. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, vitamin E is added to many skincare products because of this reason. Likewise, vitamin E is required to regulate vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is vital for overall skin health and the major ingredient in topical retinoids, which are used to lighten scars.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for healthy and vital skin. Cocoa butter also contains vitamin E and acts as a thorough moisturizer, which can temporarily soften scars.
Research
When treating scars, only the superficial ones will be affected by topical treatments with cocoa butter or vitamin E. In fact, superficial scars that cause discoloration are usually not scars at all and instead are just marks that remain after inflammation. According to a study published in 1999 in "Dermatologic Surgery," vitamin E may cause skin irritation and make scars and post-inflammatory marks look worse. Though cocoa butter contains high levels of phenolic compounds, which can reduce skin inflammation, a study published in the "Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture" showed cocoa butter made no change in the skin's appearance, especially the appearance of stretch marks.
Scar Treatment
Treating scars requires more than just slathering on a cocoa butter or vitamin E cream. These products may moisturize your skin and make scars look softer or less noticeable for a while, but the results are only temporary. Scars that leave indentations on the face require dermatological treatment in the form of chemical peels, dermabrasion or even surgical removal.
References
- "Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture"; Evidence for Health Benefits of Plant Phenols: Local or Systemic Effects?; P. Hollman; July 2001
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Omega-3 Fatty Acids; June 2009
- "Dermatologic Surgery";The Effects of Topical Vitamin E on the Cosmetic Appearance of Scars; L.S. Baumann, J. Spencer; April 1999
- The Acne Resource Center Online: Vitamin E for Acne
- AcneNet; Acne Scars: Answers to Common Questions; September 2009
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