Acne can be seen on the skin in many different forms, including blackheads, papules, pustules, cysts and nodules. If acne is severe enough, or if it is picked or popped too frequently, it can cause the skin to become scarred and damaged. These acne scars are often tougher and drier than the surrounding skin, making them difficult to remove. Fortunately, by following a routine that softens, exfoliates, and tones the skin, acne scars can be effectively diminished.
Step 1
Soften the acne scar using a highly emollient and non-comedogenic oil, such as olive oil. Massage 1 tbsp. olive oil over the area of the acne scarring. Use slow, circular finger motions. After three minutes, cover the area with a steaming hot washcloth. Allow the cloth to remain on the skin until it completely cools down. Use the damp washcloth to wipe off any remaining oil. Repeat twice per day.
Step 2
Remove discolored and scarred skin cells using a baking soda exfoliant. Combine 1 tbsp. baking soda with 1 tsp. water in a small bowl. Spread the mixture onto the scarred area. Use your fingers to massage it in lightly. After two to three minutes, rinse your skin off with water. Repeat twice per day after soaking your skin in oil.
Step 3
Apply a lemon juice and aloe vera toner to speed up skin cell turnover and to reduce redness. In an empty spray bottle, combine 8 oz. of lemon juice with 1 tbsp. aloe vera gel. Shake the mixture well. Spray the area of the acne scarring. Allow the area to dry naturally. Repeat twice per day after exfoliating the area.
Tips and Warnings
- Olive oil is a highly emollient oil that can aid in softening and loosening dead or discolored skin cells. Olive oil is also non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog the pores when applied to the skin. Dead and scarred skin cells can be easily removed by using a natural, mildly abrasive substance that will slough off dead skin without causing irritation. Baking soda makes an effective exfoliant. It is comprised of smooth particulates that will not irritate or inflame the skin when used as a scrub. Lemon juice is high in Vitamin C and can help fight off free-radicals on the skin and naturally increase the speed that dead skin cells are sloughed away. Aloe vera gel is naturally anti-inflammatory. It can be combined with lemon juice to create a toner that is helpful in both removing dead, scarred skin cells and in reducing redness and inflammation.
Things You'll Need
- Olive oil
- Washcloth
- Baking soda
- Aloe vera gel
- Lemon juice
- Spray bottle
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