Serious burns can leave dark, unsightly scars on your body. A scar occurs when new tissue forms to replace damaged tissue. Scars are a normal part of the healing process. For minimal burning that heals within two weeks, scars generally fade with time. In cases where the burn takes longer than two weeks to heal, a scar may become permanent. If expensive dermatological treatments or surgery is not an option, some home remedies may help to lighten burn scars gradually.
Step 1
Use lemon juice to help lighten your burn scars. Lemon juice acts as a bleaching agent and can help to lighten scars and reduce blemishes. Apply lemon juice to the scar using a cotton ball several times a day.
Step 2
Spread cocoa butter over the burn scar. Cocoa butter contains vitamins E and K, and is helpful in softening scars. It also moisturizes the skin, which can reduce the itching commonly associated with healing scars. You can also use vitamin E oil to help lighten burn scars.
Step 3
Dab a small amount of honey on the burn scar several times a day until the scar has faded. Honey has been used for centuries in burn and wound management. According to a review published in the "International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds," honey can minimize scarring and speed up healing.
Step 4
Try herbs to lighten burn scars. Mix sandalwood powder with rose water and apply the mixture to your scar nightly.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult a physician if home remedies do not work or if your scar becomes infected. Prescription medications can lighten burn scars, and laser treatments are another, more expensive option.
Things You'll Need
- Lemon juice
- Cocoa butter
- Vitamin E oil
- Honey
- Sandalwood powder and rose water
References
- BurnSurgery: The Burn Wound
- Lemon-Info; "Is Lemon Juice Good for Skin?"; February 2009
- "International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds"; "The Evidence Supporting the Use of Honey as a Wound Dressing"; P.C. Molan; March 2006
- Skin Care at Home; Natural Cures to Remove Burn Scars; May 2009
- How to Lighten Skin; How to Lighten Burn Scars; Februray 2011
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