Home Remedies For The Treatment Of Acne Scars

Acne affects more Americans than any other skin condition. Severe acne often leads to scarring. Approximately 20 million people in America have acne severe enough to cause scarring, states the Acne Resource Center Online. It may take up to 12 months for an acne scar to diminish on its own, according to The Health Guide. However, it is possible to help improve the appearance of your skin and diminish acne scars by using baking soda, olive oil, vitamin C, water or ice.

Baking Soda

For exfoliation purposes, mix 1 tsp. of baking soda with 2 tsp. of filtered water, states The Health Guide. Rub acne scars with this mixture for approximately one minute and rinse it off. This will help soften the scars, allowing a small part of them to be washed away.
To balance the pH of your skin, you need to use a baking soda paste, states AcneScarsHomeRemedies.org. To make the paste simply mix 1 tsp. of baking soda with 1 tsp. of filtered water. Apply a paste of baking soda and water to the skin for 15 minutes, three times each week.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps moisturize and soften your skin. Dr. William M. Jaremko, a dermatologist in Olean, NY, advises that acne scarring may cause the skin to lose its suppleness and elasticity. Olive oil may help to moisturize the skin and soften the skin's texture.

Vitamin C

Applying vitamin C may increase the rate of cell turnover, states Dr. Jaremko. This allows healthy skin to form in place of the acne scars. You can apply lemon juice directly to your face, if your skin is not too sensitive. However, a mask of lemon juice and plain yogurt may be just as beneficial, states The Health Guide. Dr. Jeremko states a mask can be made with 1 cup of plain yogurt and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. Depending on your skin sensitivity, either rinse the lemon juice off after 10 minutes or leave on overnight. Applying 1/2 cup of pineapple puree for 15 minutes may have the same lightening effects as lemon juice.

Water

"Your skin needs water," states Dr. Jaremko, especially if you are looking to repair skin to heal acne scars. Water keeps the skin plump, removes toxins and helps build new skin cells. To hydrate your skin, you need to drink between 64 and 80 oz. of water each day.

Ice

Ice reduces the size of the pores on your face. Dr. Jaremko states that if you use ice, you need to be careful. It may cause severe headaches or pain. Proper use of ice to minimize pores requires you to wrap ice cubes in a towel and place directly on acne scars for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove the ice for 20 seconds, and repeat, if desired. Dr. Jaremko states ice has very limited benefits and provides only short-term results.