Acne Scars – Can You Get Rid Of Them Using Home Remedies?

Acne affects an estimated 90% of adolescents (1). Severely inflamed acne can leave behind scars. Acne scars cause a lot of psychological distress, especially in adolescents (1). But it is important to remember that scar formation is normal.

In this article, we will be talking about some home remedies that may help lighten the appearance of acne scars. These remedies may not work on all skin types. Hence, consult a skin care expert before exploring these options.

Note: Some acne scars are caused by inflammation and require medical treatment. They cannot be treated with home remedies. Consult a dermatologist to find out if this is the case with your acne scars.

Table Of Contents

• Home Remedies That May Help Lighten Acne Scars
• Preventive Tips For Acne And Pimple Scars
• How Do Dermatologists Treat Acne Scars?

Home Remedies That May Help Lighten Acne Scars

1. Orange Peel Powder

A study was conducted in Japan to study the effect of orange peel extracts on melanogenesis, a complex process that involves the formation of melanin. It was found that the extract could help suppress melanogenesis. Hence, orange peel may help eliminate acne spots and blemishes (2).

To use orange peel powder for acne scars, you will need 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of orange peel powder. Mix both ingredients well to make a thick paste. Apply the paste to the areas with acne and pimple scars. Wash it off after it dries.

2. Coconut Oil

A research conducted to study the potential benefits of plant oils on skin shows that coconut oil possesses antibacterial properties that may help reduce acne (3).

To use coconut oil for acne scars, you will need 1 teaspoon of virgin coconut oil. Warm it by rubbing it between your palms. Dab it on the acne scars and leave it on until the next morning.

Note: Do not try this remedy if you have oily skin as coconut oil may clog pores and worsen acne.

3. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil can reduce acne lesions and scaling (4). However, there is no evidence to prove that it lightens acne scars. As topical tea tree oil is considered safe for most people, you can try out this remedy.

To use tea tree oil for acne scars, you will need 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil and a carrier oil (sweet almond oil or jojoba oil). Mix the oils and apply the blend to the scars. Leave it on for an hour before washing it off.

Note: Do a patch test before trying this remedy as tea tree oil may cause skin irritation.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

A mixture of aloe vera, tea tree oil, and propolis has also been found to reduce acne scars (5).

Aloe vera can reduce acne scars by reducing hyperpigmentation and acting as an immunity booster and anti-inflammatory agent (6), (7)

To use aloe vera for acne scars, you will need 1 teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel. Apply it to the acne scars and blemishes and leave it on overnight.

5. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice contains vitamin C that exhibits antipigmentary properties (8). Thus, it may fade acne scars and blemishes over time.

To use lemon juice for acne scars, you will need half a lemon and a bunch of cotton pads. Squeeze the lemon and apply the juice to the affected areas using a cotton pad. Rinse thoroughly after 10 minutes.

Note: If you have sensitive skin, do not try this remedy as it may cause redness and irritation. Do a patch test before the remedy, and make sure you apply sunscreen afterward as lemon juice can make your skin photosensitive.

6. Green Tea

Green tea contains polyphenols, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in the prevention and treatment of acne (9). Green tea also helps reduce scars with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties (10)

To use green tea for acne scars, you will need 1 green tea bag and honey. Make a face pack by mixing moist green tea leaves with honey. Apply the pack all over your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse it off thoroughly with plain water.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric is one of the oldest and most commonly used spices for skin remedies. Studies show that topical application of turmeric showed improvement in skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and alopecia (11). However, current studies are limited and further research is essential for a better understanding of how it may help reduce acne scars.

To use turmeric for acne scars, you will need 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and a lemon. Squeeze out the lemon juice in a bowl and mix it with turmeric powder. Gently apply this to your face and other affected areas. Leave it on for about 15 minutes before washing it off.

Note: If you have sensitive skin, do not try this remedy as it may cause redness and irritation. Do a patch test before the remedy, and make sure you apply sunscreen afterward.

8. Potato Juice

A study published in the Journal Of Medicinal Plants Studies states that the potassium, sulfur, phosphorus, and chloride found in potato are useful for treating acne blemishes (12). Potato also contains azelaic acid that may reduce hyperpigmentation caused by mild to moderate acne (12), (13).

To use potato juice for acne, you will need 2 tablespoons of potato juice. Soak a cotton ball in this juice and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 10 minutes and wash it off.

9. Cocoa

Cocoa butter is rich in polyphenols and essential minerals that make it highly suitable for the treatment of skin problems. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can reduce acne and promote the repair of skin tissues (14). This may help in lightening acne scars.

To use cocoa for acne scars, you will need 1 tablespoon cocoa butter. Warm it by rubbing it between your palms. Apply it to the scars and leave it on overnight. Wash it off with a mild cleanser the next morning.

Note: Avoid this remedy if you have oily skin.

10. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is found in many acne cosmeceuticals (15). It contains salicylic acid, which might help reduce the number of acne spots (16).

To use witch hazel for acne scars, you will need 1 tablespoon of witch hazel bark. Soak it in 1 cup water for 30 minutes and boil the mixture. Reduce it to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool down for an additional 10 minutes. Strain and store the liquid in a container. Apply it to the affected areas using a cotton pad.

11. Baking Soda

Baking soda is known for its ability to kill bacteria (17). This might help control acne occurrence. However, there are no scientific studies to verify its efficacy.

Some studies emphasize the harmful effects of baking soda. Hence, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before trying it on your skin.

To use baking soda for acne scars, you will need 2 teaspoons of baking soda and some water. Mix both and apply the paste to the affected areas. Leave it on for 20 minutes before washing it off thoroughly.

Note: Baking soda can dry out the skin, so apply a hydrating moisturizer immediately after using this remedy.

12. Vitamin Supplements

Taking vitamin supplements may help reduce acne scars.

Vitamin A can help treat acne, though its direct effect on acne scars has not been studied (18). Although vitamin E is a popular treatment for scars and wounds, no studies have been able to prove its efficacy (19). Ascorbic acid or vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and its topical application is suitable for treating acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (20).

You can also consume foods rich in vitamins, like green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, fish, carrots, and avocados.

Note: Do not take these supplements without consulting your doctor.

These were a few natural tips and tricks to lighten acne and pimple scars. Let us now understand how you can prevent the recurrence of these scars.

Preventive Tips For Acne And Pimple Scars

Acne and pimples occur fairly frequently, but you can always make sure that they don’t leave scars on your face. Some tips that may help you prevent scars include:

• Wash your face with a non-comedogenic face wash twice daily.
• Always remove makeup from your face before going to bed.
• Do not pick on acne or pop your pimples.
• Apply sunscreen before stepping out in the sun.
• Follow a balanced diet and avoid foods that can cause breakouts.

The remedies shared above may help control and reduce the appearance of acne. However, in some cases, you may require more long-term treatment as the acne might be a sign of other underlying conditions. In such cases, you must consult your dermatologist immediately.

How Do Dermatologists Treat Acne Scars?

Although many recipes and ingredients are recommended to treat acne scars, not all of them have proven to work. To overcome this situation, visit a dermatologist. Here are some common dermatological treatment options that your doctor might suggest. Note that these procedures are carried out under medical supervision, so self-medication is strictly prohibited.

1. Dermabrasion/Microdermabrasion: Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are facial resurfacing techniques that mechanically remove damaged skin to promote wound healing. Dermabrasion removes the epidermis completely and remodels the skin’s structural proteins. Microdermabrasion only removes the outer layer of the epidermis, enhancing the natural process of exfoliation. Both treatments are effective in treating acne scars (1).
2. Laser Treatment: Laser treatment is recommended for patients with deep scars (box-car scars). Although there is improvement noticed in this treatment, there are quite a few risk factors and criteria involved in this procedure (1).
3. Needling: Skin needling involves using a sterile roller made of fine, sharp needles to puncture the skin. The bruises thus created on the skin boost the production of collagen and elastin fibers. Results are generally seen about 6 weeks to 3 months from the procedure (1).
4. Chemical Peels: Chemical peeling involves applying chemicals to the skin to remove the damaged outer layers to speed up the skin repair process. The hydroxy acids used in this process include glycolic acid, pyruvic acid, salicylic acid, and trichloroacetic acid (1).

When using natural remedies to treat acne scars, you need to be patient as it may take weeks to show results. It is also important to remember that some remedies may not work for you because of your skin type or an underlying medical condition that is causing your acne. You will be less likely to have acne scars if you have lesser acne. Hence, it is recommended that you consult a doctor to find out as much as you can about your acne and how to deal with it.