Acne creams and lotions may be somewhat effective in reducing the appearance of redness and marking, but postinflammatory hypopigmentation scars (commonly known as white acne scars) are more difficult to minimize or eliminate. Still, a number of treatments and approaches are available, including natural remedies you can try at home, especially in the case of fewer or less serious scars.
Step 1
Wash your face every day with a product containing hydroxy acids. Because they aid in cell regeneration, they can help get rid of old skin and the associated scarring. Changes are subtle, however, and it can take several months before you see any real difference. Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) salicylic acid can help exfoliate the skin and has a subtle dermabrasion effect.
Step 2
Apply lavender essential oil directly on the scars using a cotton ball. Lavender oil is one of the very few essential oils that you can apply directly to the skin without causing burning or other side effects. Repeat the application every night after cleansing and drying your skin.
Step 3
Discuss other options such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion with a dermatologist. According to dermnetnz.org, these treatments remove the upper layer of the skin, allowing new skin cells to grow. These techniques work well with white scarring, although doctors also use them for other types of acne scars.
Step 4
Ask your doctor about medications such as V-Tar. According to American Chronicle, "Treatments for white scarring that result from acne scars . . . include medications for vitiligo" (a disorder that whitens the skin). Dr. R.W. Urbanek reported successfully using a compound called V-Tar for hypopigmentation. Dr. Urbanek says V-Tar induces the skin to produce melanocytes, which in turn helps restore natural pigmentation.
Step 5
Wear sunscreen to prevent tanning. The darker your skin, the more visible white scars will be.
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