I believe scars are a symbol of your strength to overcome any challenge. That said, there are plenty of options for those looking for scar-fading treatments, and some of the best are surprisingly accessible. If you're not sure which balm, cream, gel or pad is best for you, it's worth doing some research before you start buying.
Scars form when tough fibrous tissue heals over an injury or wound. They're a natural part of the healing process, but if you want to speed up recovery from surgery, breakouts, or accidents, the right ingredients can help. Those wondering how to remove and fade scars should look for ingredients that promote cell turnover, keep skin hydrated, reduce inflammation and nourish the area with essential vitamins. Not only will this reduce current redness and irritation, but it will also encourage your skin to heal itself in the long term.
As always, check the ingredient list for known irritants and start narrowing down your choices that way. Your scar healing process has a lot to do with your preferences. Some people don't mind the watery consistency of the natural gel, while others prefer to cover the area with scar healing tablets. No matter which one you prefer, here are 10 treatments that can help you treat scars quickly, easily, and effectively.
1. The Best Lightweight Treatment Gel
Body Merry Scar Gel, $23, Amazon
If you don't like the feeling of sticky residue, this scar-fading gel is designed to heal scars with its restorative and natural formula while remaining lightweight and non-sticky.
Ingredients like quercetin (a natural anti-inflammatory found in onions) and kakadu plum (an Australian plant rich in vitamin C) can reduce the appearance of scars, regardless of their cause. Hydrolyzed collagen promotes epidermal growth by regulating the production of skin cells and is formulated to be safe for sensitive skin. Although it can reportedly take up to 12 weeks to start working, fans of the product report noticeable improvements in just a few weeks. Reviewers also say that "it's not greasy or sticky" and "absorbs quickly."
2. Best Natural Scar Healing Cream
Wild Thera Scar Cream, $18, Amazon
If you're looking for a product that uses natural ingredients to promote healing, this scar removal balm is a fan favorite. It's great for treating acne scars, sun spots, and surgical scars because its lavender, shea butter, and tamanu oil formula replenishes moisture as the skin heals. Reviewers of this balm say it reduces discoloration and texture, and its herbal, aromatherapy scent smells great.
“I noticed that the scar wasn’t as raised as it was before, and you can personally see it getting smaller,” raved one reviewer. “I can’t wait to see what happens as I continue to use this. "
3. Best Acne Scar Cream
Organicc Skin Whitening Cream, $16, Amazon
When discoloration is your biggest concern, this organic skin whitening cream is designed to treat the red spots and bumps left behind by severe acne. It uses antioxidant compounds found in red grapes to reduce melanin, and thanks to its vitamin-rich botanical formula, it won't leave your skin smelling like harsh chemicals. A clinical study found that 85% of people had brighter skin after using the cream, and users say its fragrance-free formula also fades other dark spots on the body, creating a subtle glow immediately upon application.
4. Fading cream for sensitive skin
Tetyana Naturals Scar Cream , $35, Amazon
Many scar medications may contain extracts and concentrated ingredients that are too harsh for sensitive skin. This scar treatment cream contains no harsh ingredients and instead has a gentle formula that uses flower extracts and aloe vera juice to soothe the skin. Since it's formulated for all skin types, it can be used on even the mildest spots, such as scabs from insect bites.
"This has transformed my skin," said one reviewer. "I've been reading great things about it and wanted to try it. I started using it for my dry skin and it helped. I have sensitive and super dry skin and suffer from PCOS on my chin and cheeks I had deep cystic acne. Not only did it clear up the scars, but my cystic acne disappeared. ”
5. The best single-ingredient treatments
InstaNatural Emu Oil, $21, Amazon
Science shows that applying topical emu oil after the initial inflammatory phase has a positive effect on wound healing. In other words, it's particularly effective on scars. This selection from InstaNatural is completely pure and contains only AEA Certified Refined Emu Oil. So it's definitely rich in healing and anti-inflammatory fatty acids that help speed up rejuvenation and keep the area well moisturized.
It's a great all-around product for a variety of beauty-related concerns (like hair growth, nail health, dryness, and discoloration), but reviewers really like it for treating scars: "Older scars It started to fade a little and is now really starting to fade away, and the new one, which used to be lumpy and bright pink, is now smoother and lighter in color," one buyer said.
6. Best Remedies for Traveling
Burt's Bees Lemon Butter, $5, Amazon
Lemon is another effective ingredient for treating dark spots and scars as it is rich in vitamin C and has astringent properties. While this Lemon Butter Cream is designed for cuticles and nails, its natural ingredients like lemon oil, beeswax, rosemary extract, vitamin E, and almond oil make it a delightful pocket-friendly fixer , great for healing scars. Users say the compact tin lasts longer than you think, and its high-moisture formula glides on easily for simple use. Best of all, it's easy to take with you or keep on your desk at work, so it's never too far away to reapply.
7. Silicone sheet to protect new scars
Scar Reduction Treatment Gel Tablets, $20, Amazon
New scars need a safe environment to help them heal, which is why this silicone scar patch is especially suitable for post-operative treatment. It protects scars from bacteria and external contact, while the penetrating surface still allows healing skin to breathe and retain moisture. It's simple and effortless to use, and the boards can be cut into custom shapes to last up to 24 hours at a time. You can get them in a variety of colors, and reviewers say, "I really wish I had known these during my first two surgeries."
8. Best Wound Healing Supplements
Purethentical Naturals Grape Seed Extract, $18, Amazon
When it comes to scars, healing scars from the inside out is a great complement to topical treatments. Grape seed extract can promote wound healing because it promotes the growth of epidermal tissue, and these capsules from Purethentic Naturals contain only grape seeds, no fillers, and no unnecessary ingredients. Bonus: It's good for your immune system, cardiovascular health, and even PMS. Of course, talk to your doctor before making any supplemental changes to your diet.
9. Best vitamins for skin regeneration
Seeking Health Vitamin A Drops, $22, Amazon
While many sources suggest that vitamin E can heal scars, science actually shows there is no evidence to support this claim, and it may even worsen the appearance of scar tissue. Vitamin A, on the other hand, helps regenerate skin tissue, and a lack of vitamin A may delay scar healing.
These vitamin A drops are a great dietary supplement because they are free of common allergens (such as gluten, casein, and corn) and are easy to take. Simply add a few neutral-flavored drops to whatever you're eating or drinking to reap the benefits of smoothing skin. One user even said her oily, acne-prone skin became clearer within days of use.
10. The best clay mask for scar removal
Bentonite Clay Mask, $10, Amazon
Many people use it for its pore-clearing and complexion-clearing properties, but this healing clay mask also remineralizes the body with calcium and silica. As a result, reviewers say it "really improves the appearance of acne scars," and some people have even successfully healed scars elsewhere on their bodies. The best part? Your scar healing journey will feel like a spa day at home. One user said her acne-related scars on her T-zone and around her mouth were healed after just two uses.
Bustle may receive a share of sales from products purchased from this article, which is created independently of Bustle's editorial and sales departments.
This article was originally published on February 16, 2016. Updated and republished on June 18, 2019.
