How Get Rid of Acne Scars:16 Best Remedies

How to get rid of acne scars at home? Acne is a common problem for many people, especially teenagers and women. Because the rapid hormonal changes will promote oil glands to produce more oil than normal, when the follicle or skin pores get clogged with excess oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, acne may occur on the skin.

If left untreated, an inflamed lesion, such as a papule, pustule, or cyst, will cause skin irritation and swelling. When the inflammation harms the tissue underneath the skin, you may notice an ugly acne scar or pimple marks on the skin. This is a sign that your skin has been significantly damaged by acne.

In most cases, the ugly scars will go away on their own. However, sometimes it may need several months to years to disappear completely. This article discusses the 16 best remedies to remove acne scars.

Symptoms of Acne scars

Acne scars are usually dark red or purple, and the affected areas can be uneven and firm. However, if the body produces too little collagen, you will find depressed acne scars or pits on the face. If the body produces too much collagen, you will find a raised acne scar which usually appears on the back and chest. This type of scar is more common among African-Americans, Hispanics, and Asians.

Common Causes of Acne Scars

• Oily skin – When you have too much oil on your skin, it will be harder for your skin to heal. The clogged pores may also come in contact with dirt and bacteria. The slower the healing process of your pimples is, the more likely you will get acne.
• Bacteria on your skin – Bacteria are usually situated around the hair follicles. You will know if bacteria is present when the acne-prone area becomes inflamed and yellow and red lesions are available.
• Dead skin cells – Dead skin cells are one of the causes why your skin will be clogged and why it will take longer for your pimples to heal. If you want to remove your dead skin cells effectively, you can use a facial scrub to get rid of the dead skin cells and prevent scarring.
• Genetics – Take a look at your relatives. Do they also have acne scars? If you answer yes, then this is something that you cannot control.
• Hormonal changes– Such as those related to puberty, oral contraceptives, and pregnancy.
• Foods rich in carbs and dairy– Such as chocolate-have-are more likely to trigger acne.
• Medications: Not all drugs have the same effects, but some containing corticosteroids, lithium, or androgens can worsen acne.
• Dirty skin: Oils and bacteria on the dirty skin may block the pores and cause acne.
• You do not get any treatment – If you think that acne and acne scars will go away over time without any treatment, you are increasing the possibility of getting more acne scars in the long run.

16 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Acne Scars

Some of the natural ingredients have anti-inflammatory or antibacterial properties, which can help you lighten the scars safely. As you continue using them, they can help remove the scars permanently.

1. Fenugreek Seeds Remedy

Fenugreek seeds work great in removing the scars of acne naturally. Fenugreek is also known as Greek hayseed and is the root of the fledgling. It has a long history of helpful utilization for removing skin inflammation.

Fenugreek seeds contain powerful antioxidants that can help treat skin issues effectively. Although further experimental exploration is expected to affirm the viability of fenugreek in treating complexion skin issues, it has been a famous natural solution for hundreds of years in treating pimple inflammation.

Direction

Prepare 2 tbsp of fenugreek seeds, water, and a pan. Take a small pan over medium heat and add 2 cups of water and fenugreek seeds. Let them boil for a few minutes, and grind them into the glue. Then store this glue in a cool area.

You can also store it in the refrigerator. Apply a small portion of this glue to your acne smudges. After that, leave it for 15 minutes, and wash your skin with warm water.

Note: Do not leave fenugreek glue on your skin for over 20 minutes. You can use a cotton ball to clean your face.

2. Lemon Juice Remedy

Fresh lemon juice contains vitamin C and L-ascorbic acid. L-ascorbic acid is a common astringent that can dry out the pimple inflammation and reduce the excess oil. Vitamin C can help kill bacteria and rebuild skin collagen. In addition, it can remove dead skin cells and promote new skin cell growth.

Direction

You will need 2 or 3 tsp of lemon juice and a cotton ball. Apply it to your skin with a cotton ball and leave it for thirty minutes. You can also apply it before you go to bed. You have to continue this process for 2 to 3 weeks.

Alternatively, Squeeze the fresh juice out of a lemon. You can also add a bit of honey to it. Use a cotton ball to apply the juice to the scars. Allow it to dry for at least 10 minutes. Wash it off with cold water, and avoid using soaps or face scrubs. Repeat up to two times per day for best results.

Note: Lemon juice is very good for the skin. However, when using it, you may experience some sting or irritation. In that case, you can wash your face with water immediately. After applying it to the face, the skin becomes very sensitive. Don’t go out in the sun right away. It may cause skin damage!

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda has excellent exfoliating properties that can remove dead skin cells, dirt, and excess oil trapped in the pores. This helps dries the skin, prevents bacteria, and encourages new skin cell growth. In addition, Baking soda has antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help ease red marks and irritation.

Direction

Take 2 to 3 teaspoons of baking soda and two teaspoons of water. Mix it well and make a thick paste. Then apply it to the affected area and massage it in a circular motion.

Leave it for 3-4 minutes. This will help baking soda clean the pores and prevent new acne from appearing. After that, wash your face with lukewarm water. You will discover smooth as well as glowing skin. Ensure not to leave this paste on your skin for more than 8 minutes.

Alternatively, add a few drops of olive oil to a teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of water. Mix it well and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 3 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this 2-3 times a week. You can also use natural moisturizers such as coconut and jojoba oil for better results.

4. Lemon Juice and Glycerin

Many people are not aware of the magical benefits of Glycerin. Glycerin has a strong power of healing. It can quickly remove the scars caused by acne. Glycerin’s saturating property permits the pores to inhale, securing regular dampness and counteracting obstructing.

It can also fill small breaks and voids on the skin surface to give you a healthier look. In addition, glycerin can battle contagious diseases, bacterial contamination, and skin issues like dermatitis and psoriasis.

Direction

Take three teaspoons of lemon juice and three drops of glycerin. Mix it well and apply it to the affected area. You can leave this paste overnight, or if you want, you can leave it for 1 hour. It will make your skin smooth. The healing power will help to reduce the scar of acne.

Note: If your skin is oily, do not leave this mask for more than 30 minutes. You need to apply a glycerin mask at least twice a day to remove your scars.

5. Egg Whites

Egg whites have important mending qualities that help you eliminate acne scars. It is brimming with proteins and amino acids, which can tighten the pores to avert new breakouts while lightening the scarred skin.

Direction

In a small bowl, mix one egg white until it gets feathery and white. Use your fingers to spread the egg whites onto the affected territories tenderly. Let the egg whites dry on the skin and hold up a couple of minutes before washing without end tenderly with respectably warm water. Repeat this process two to three times a week.

6. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has excellent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help repair your damaged skin and promote clear skin. Fresh aloe vera gel contains many vitamins that can help you remove acne scars naturally.

Additionally, aloe is a great characteristic lotion that will make your skin gentler and healthier. You can find aloe vera gel in any medication store. Remember, fresh aloe is the best. It will help you lighten and smoothen the skin. Gradually, acne marks will begin to diminish.

Direction

Extract fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf of the plant. If you can’t get it, you can purchase it; just ensure it’s pure and without added substances.

Apply the gel on the scars and wounds. Leave it on for around one hour or more before washing it off. You can also apply it before going to sleep.

7. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the best natural moisturizers that can help treat acne scars and dark spots. It can be used for people of all skin types. Coconut oil contains fatty acids, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K that help maintain skin moisture, repair damaged skin cells, and smooth your skin.

Its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties can help clog skin pores, kill bacteria, and reduce inflammation and redness to heal wounds quickly.

Direction

Scoop around a quarter of a teaspoon of coconut oil into the palm of your hand and let it dissolve as it rises to body temperature. With your fingertips, back rub oil specifically onto scarred skin and make it absorb it.

Apply it to the scars for 1 hour. You do not need to wash the coconut oil away because it will improve your skin health when you wear it. If you do not want to leave the oil on for too much time on your skin, you can leave it for 30 minutes, and after that, wash your face with mild face wash.

8. Cucumber

Cucumber is another effective home remedy for acne scars. Cucumbers can moisturize and hydrate the skin because 90% of cucumber ingredients are water.

It also has an astringent property that can tighten the pores and remove bacteria dust. This will help you get rid of the redness and inflammation pain. Cucumber is not only hydrating but also contains vitamin C, vitamin A, and magnesium. These vitamins and minerals can help reduce the free radicals that cause acne scars.

Direction

Suppose you want to apply this treatment. Slice the cucumber and lay the slices over your affected skin. After thirty minutes, discard the cucumber slices and rinse your face with cool water. Repeat this process daily to get the fastest result.

9. Olive Oil

Olive oil is excellent for treating acne scars and dark spots. It is a rich source of vitamins(A, B1, B2, C, D, E) and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight the bacteria, prevents greasiness and dryness, and accelerate acne’s healing process scars.

In addition, the nutrients of this oil can help repair damaged skin to make your skin soft and smooth. You can also use it to keep the oil balance of your skin.

Direction

Apply the oil to your facial skin. Keep rubbing for a couple of minutes till you can feel that your pores are immersed. Wrap a warm wash fabric over your face to steam and open the pores. Then tenderly wipe away the overabundance of oil. Repeat the procedure 1-2 times before washing your face with fresh water.

Note: Apply a sheer layer and leave it for less than 15 minutes before bed.

10. Honey

Honey is a useful natural ingredient that can remove acne scars. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help repair damaged skin cells, kill bacteria, and reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation pain.

In addition, vitamins and minerals in honey can enhance your immunity to make your skin soft, healthy, and smooth. It is best to use raw honey, not the prepared honey found on the racks of most chain markets. To get the best quality, buy honey from the local farmer’s market or online store that sells only natural products.

Direction

Take one teaspoon of honey and apply it all over your skin, especially on the affected area. Apply it in a circular motion. Leave it for 10 minutes, and wash your face with warm water.

Apply honey at least twice a week to get the best result. You can also mix a tablespoon of honey with a teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a better result.

11. Potato Slice

Another useful acne scar treatment is Potato. Potato juice is rich in Vitamins as well as a mineral. It is good for the skin’s health as it has a great healing power to remove acne scars.

Direction

Take a fresh potato and slice it. Directly apply the slices to the affected area and leave them for half an hour. You can also massage the slices. After that, wash your face with warm water.

Note: You can also use potato juice. You have to apply this remedy at least once a day.

12. Sugar Scrub

Sugar scrub is also beneficial for your skin. It works great to remove acne marks.

Direction

Make a scrub with three teaspoons of sugar and two teaspoons of olive oil. Apply it to the affected area and leave it for twenty minutes. Wash your face with mild soap.

Note: You must apply this mask at least four times a week.

13. Rose Water and Glycerin

Glycerin is a common ingredient used in many skincare products. Glycerin contains strong healing power that can help repair damaged skin and reduce acne scars naturally.

Direction

Mix 2 teaspoons of rose water and one teaspoon of glycerin. Apply it to the affected area, and you can also massage it in a circular motion. Leave it for 15 minutes and wash your face.

Note: You can also apply this mask before going to bed.

14. Turmeric Powder

Turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can kill bacteria and remove excess oil from the skin.

Direction

Take two tsp of turmeric powder and two tsp of milk. Mix it well and apply it all over your face or the affected area. Leave it for 20 minutes. Wash your face.

Note: You have to apply this paste two times a day.

15. Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey

Apple cider vinegar is a natural antiseptic agent that destroys harmful bacteria on your skin. It can also remove excess oils and tighten your large pores. Last but not least, apple cider vinegar can make efficiently even the skin tone and fade away acne scars.

Direction

Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a teaspoon of honey. If you have sensitive skin, dilute the vinegar with equal water. Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture on and around the affected areas.

Let it dry naturally for around 15 minutes. Rinse it off with warm water. Avoid using soaps or face scrubs. Repeat three times per day for best results.

When used together with honey, this remedy is one of the best solutions for you to try out at home. Honey is an anti-inflammatory agent that helps reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by acne.

16. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an effective natural remedy capable of encouraging the healing of scars. It is also a natural disinfectant rich in antibacterial properties. Tea tree oil is known to perform best when applied to hypertrophic scars, as it can even out the skin tone and gradually eliminate the scars.

Direction

Pour a few drops of tea tree oil on a cotton ball and apply it to the acne. You can also mix it with coconut oil, as those two make good partners in combatting this skin condition. For best results, perform this remedy twice per day.

Alternatively, you can use helichrysum essential oil, which has similar effects as tea tree oil. It is a natural antibacterial agent and an antioxidant, meaning that it can regenerate damaged tissues and prevent further skin damage.

Over-the-counter Products for Acne Scars

1. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is an over-the-counter treatment for acne scars that works by exfoliating the skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new skin cells. It can also reduce inflammation and redness.

2. Retinol

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is commonly used in over-the-counter treatments for acne scars. It works by speeding up the cell turnover rate, which helps reduce the appearance of acne scars. It can also help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is an over-the-counter product used to treat acne scars. It works by increasing the skin’s moisture content, which helps reduce acne scars’ appearance. Hyaluronic acid can also help to improve skin texture and tone.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. It also helps to brighten skin tone and reduce redness. Vitamin C can be found in over-the-counter treatments for acne scars.

5. Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are a group of acids derived from natural sources, such as fruits and milk. These acids can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars by exfoliating the skin and promoting the growth of new skin cells. AHAs are often found in over-the-counter treatments for acne scars.

Medical Treatments for Acne Scars

1. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a popular medical treatment used to reduce the appearance of acne scars. It targets problem areas with short pulses of light energy to break down the damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production. The new collagen helps to fill in the depressed scars, reducing their appearance.

2. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a type of exfoliation technique that involves applying a chemical solution to the affected area. This solution helps remove the outer layer of skin, revealing the healthier layer beneath. This can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars.

3. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a type of skin resurfacing procedure that uses a small device to remove the top layer of skin. This helps to exfoliate the skin, reducing the appearance of acne scars.

4. Subcision

Subcision is a procedure that involves using a small needle to break up the fibrous bands that are causing the acne scars. This helps to reduce the appearance of the scars by allowing the skin to heal and form new collagen.

5. Fillers

Fillers are a type of injectable treatment that can help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. They work by injecting a filler material into the scar, which helps to fill in the depression and give the skin a smooth, even texture.

When to See a Doctor?

While mild acne scars can often be treated with over-the-counter products and home remedies, there are instances where it is advisable to seek medical attention. If you’re unsure whether to see a doctor for your acne scars, consider the following scenarios:

• Severity of Scarring: If your acne scars are severe, deep, or widespread, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist.
• Emotional Impact: Acne scars can have a significant psychological impact, causing distress and overall well-being. If you find that your acne scars negatively impact your quality of life, self-confidence, or mental health, seeking professional help is important.
• Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Products Aren’t Effective: If you’ve tried various home remedies or over-the-counter products to reduce acne scars but haven’t seen significant improvement, it may be time to consult a doctor.
• Active Acne Breakouts: If you still experience active acne breakouts along with scarring, it is advisable to see a dermatologist.

Remember, each person’s experience with acne scars is unique, and the most appropriate course of action may vary. Consulting a dermatologist will help you understand your treatment options and find the best approach to improve the appearance of your acne scars.