Acne, or acne vulgaris, is the medical term for plugged skin pores (whiteheads and blackheads) that manifest on the face, neck, shoulders, back and arms. This common skin condition affects mostly teenagers, but anyone can get acne, regardless of age or race. Acne scars are remnants of the skin damage caused by your immune system's attempt to eliminate the microorganisms in your skin pores. If left untreated, acne scars can further darken over time, causing unwanted discoloration of the skin. Common treatments for acne scars are prescription creams and skin therapies offered by dermatologists. However, consulting a dermatologist can be costly. There are, however, many inexpensive and natural remedies you can easily use to heal acne scars at home.
Step 1
Apply an oatmeal and milk mixture to the acne scars. Oatmeal is a natural skin exfoliant that is rich in antioxidants. Mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 cup of dried oats in a clean bowl. Mix and apply the mixture, using your fingertips, to the scarred skin and leave on for 30 minutes to one hour. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Do this once daily to help heal acne scars.
Step 2
Massage aloe vera gel gently on the scars. Aloe vera gel can protect and heal acne-scarred skin. It also contains compounds that can lighten and soften the acne scars over time. Gently massage the gel directly on the scar with your fingertips before going to sleep and leave it on your skin overnight.
Step 3
Apply fresh lemon juice, which lightens skin discolorations naturally, directly to the acne scars. Rinse a lemon and cut it in half. Slowly and gently rub the lemon in a circular motion on the scars for two to three minutes and leave the juice on your face until it dries. Apply sunblock if you plan to go outside.
Step 4
Apply honey directly to the acne scars. Honey contains antiseptic compounds and other properties that can even out skin discolorations and soften your skin. Massage the honey with your fingertips gently into the acne scars for five minutes and rinse off after one to two hours. Using honey daily can help heal and fade acne scars gradually over time.
Tips and Warnings
- You can purchase aloe vera gel at any health food store. Use sunblock one hour before going outside when applying any or all of the above-mentioned remedies for acne scars. Applying sunblock to acne scars will help moisturize and prevent further discoloration. Purchase sunblock with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or above. Reapply the sunblock every 4 hrs or after swimming or sweating.
- Consult your physician before embarking on any self-treatments for acne or acne scarring.
Things You'll Need
- Oatmeal
- Milk
- Aloe vera gel
- Lemon
- Honey
- Sunblock lotion
References
- "Naturally Healthy Skin: Tips and Techniques for a Lifetime of Radiant Skin;" Stephanie Tourles; 1999
- "Honey: The Gourmet Medicine;" Joe Traynor; 2002
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Better Skin;" Lucy Beale and Angela Jensen; 2004
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