Most commonly the result of severe acne outbreaks, deep facial scars can bruise your self-confidence. Although hundreds of home remedy sites claim that treatment with topical juices -- such as lemon or tomato -- will fix those acne scars, topical juices or prescriptions for deep scars may be largely ineffective. There are some treatments available to try at home, but talk to your dermatologist first. Success with home treatments can vary greatly from person to person.
Step 1
Wait until your acne outbreak has subsided. Applying treatment to red, irritated skin could make your condition worse, leading to exacerbated scarring.
Step 2
Use a microdermabrasion device as instructed in the user's manual, making small, controlled movements over the skin, focusing on tissues surrounding the deep scars. Lower the setting for the tender skin surrounding your eyes and mouth. Repeat treatments every two weeks for best results.
Step 3
Test a chemical peel on a small patch of your inner arm before applying it to your face. Over-the-counter peels are similar to those used at the doctor's office -- although usually not as strong. Use one containing either glycolic or salicylic acid. Wait 24 hours to check the test site. Redness and peeling skin are normal at the test site; this is the purpose of the chemicals.
Step 4
Apply the chemical peel to your face as directed on the manufacturer's instructions if the skin test did not result in an adverse reaction, such as a rash or open skin. Wash and rinse your skin as instructed, and do not skip any after-care instructions provided, as proper after-care will help reduce red, tender skin, which is expected after a peel.
Step 5
Feed your skin from the inside out. Follow a diet rich in fruits, grains, vegetables and cold-water fish that provide the full complement of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids that help your skin regenerate. If you would prefer to use supplements, consider those that include fish oil, selenium, zinc and vitamins E, A and C.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid sunlight, and use sunscreen for one week after a microdermabrasion treatment.
- Home microdermabrasion and chemical peels may not help deep scarring, and some could actually compound the problem. Check with your dermatologist before trying a home remedy.
Things You'll Need
- Microdermabrasion kit
- Chemical peel
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